top of page
IS8A2244 JASMINE SOPHIA WIDE4.jpg
IS8A2244 JASMINE SOPHIA WIDE5.jpg

TIMELESS FINE ART PORTRAITS THAT YOUR FAMILY WILL CHERISH FOR GENERATIONS

SOULFUL SESSIONS

Based in Chantilly, VA - Serving Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC

High-end Portraiture Inspired by the Classic
Artists from Centuries Past

Crafting timeless generational artwork for your family, we offer an unparalleled fine art photography experience from initial concept to final masterpiece.

OVER 40 YEARS OF PHOTOGRAPHIC EXCELLENCE

portfolio

WORLDWIDE

IS8A5323.jpg

FINE ART PORTFOLIO

WORLDWIDE

IS8A2249 abby.jpg

OTHER GENRES

HOW IT WORKS

next steps

1

PRE-SESSION

CONSULTATION

After booking with Mike Gillette Photography, we'll have a consultation to discuss your session. We'll cover locations, poses, colors, clothing...all the details to make it special.

2

STYLING &

PHOTOSHOOT

The time has come to capture your gorgeous family! Relax, have fun and enjoy this time with your family as we capture and create some beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. 

3

IMAGE EDITING &

FINAL DELIVERY

After selecting your images, the editing magic begins! Proofs become dreamy art after up to 3 weeks. Digitals are promptly delivered online, and Mike ensures perfect artwork upon arrival.

ABOUT YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Mike Gillette

Hello, I’m Mike, a visual storyteller dedicated to capturing the inner light and personality of your child through beautiful portraits. My passion lies in creating a lasting legacy of exceptional artistry, coupled with a kind and patient presence throughout the entire process.
 

My team and I are committed to providing a relaxed and rewarding experience for everyone we photograph, especially those who may feel camera-shy or uncomfortable. We take pride in making each session enjoyable and stress-free.
 

Over the past 20 years, my work has been honored with over a dozen Emmy awards. However, what I cherish most is my advocacy for children with cancer. These incredible kids have taught me profound lessons about life and the importance of family, which have deeply influenced my approach to photography.
 

I aim to create timeless images that truly capture the essence of each person I photograph. Instead of forced or fake smiles, I focus on natural, genuine expressions that highlight the eyes, often called the windows to the soul.
 

I look forward to connecting with you to discuss how I can serve you and your family. 

mg headshot1.jpg
“Our photoshoot with Mike was wonderful. My children are very camera shy and don't like having their photos taken. Within minutes of arriving for the shoot, Mike and his assistant had them laughing and comfortable. The entire process was fun and rewarding for them and the photos are gorgeous. I couldn't be happier! 
~ Nikki Prince

FREE PLANNING TIPS & ADVICE

7 reasons why you need to hire a real photojournalist for your wedding

REAL LOVE STORIES

recent work

Loft-on-Lake-Wedding-01-1024x683.jpg

LOFT ON LAKE WEDDING: JOHNNA + BRYCE

real-wedding-photojournalist-05-1024x683.jpg

CIVIC OPERA HOUSE WEDDING: KELLY & ELLIOT

bridgeport-art-center-sculpture-garden-wedding-photos-46-1024x683.jpg

BRIDGEPORT ART CENTER WEDDING: JESSICA & JARED

HOW THIS WORKS

We’re experts – so you don’t have to be.

As a Chicago wedding photographer with more than 10 years of experience across nearly 200 weddings, you can count on us to help you with more than just the photography. Weddings have a reputation for being chaotic and stressful, but our approach will let you be fully present and later cherish photos that look as amazing as your day felt.

From helping you put together a family group list to sharing our list of killer locations for portraits (even if it’s raining), you can rest assured you won’t have to worry about logistics. You won’t have to wonder about what to do with your hands or feeling awkward in front of the camera. Your job is to enjoy your wedding day and we’ll make sure your photos happen worry-free and naturally.


 

TIPS + ADVICE FOR COUPLES

planning resources

01_Best-Chicago-Wedding-Photographers-1024x683.jpg

The most important question to ask before booking your wedding photographer.
 

20180922-ChelseaKevin_064-1024x683.jpg

7 reasons to hire a real photojournalist for your wedding

Bridgeport-Art-Center-Wedding-05-1024x683.jpg

Our complete guide to the best wedding venues in chicago

downtown-couple-under-umbrella-chicago-river-1024x683.jpg

what to do and where to go if it rains on your wedding day

07_Best-Chicago-Engagement-Locations-1024x683.jpg

where to go for engagement photos

The-Drake-Hotel-Wedding-07-1024x683.jpg

how much does a wedding photographer in chicago cost

"

“If you’re thinking about hiring a photojournalist for your wedding, look no further.”

“Travis and his second shooter Justin capture EVERY moment from your wedding you could imagine. And because they capture real moments, you also can feel the emotions from the photos.”

LESLIE + OLIVER | CHICAGO

pricing info

Real weddings don’t fit neatly into six, eight or even 10-hour packages. Our collections don’t require you to know your timeline months before your wedding.

“Travis and his second shooter Justin capture EVERY moment from your wedding you could imagine. And because they capture real moments, you also can feel the emotions from the photos.”

We’ll work together to make sure I’m there for all the great moments you expect, and the ones you don’t. You’ll never have to worry about planning your day around the photographer’s schedule.

Wedding collections start at $4,800, which includes:
– full day coverage with two photographers
– online image gallery for viewing and ordering
– full resolution digital images with print release

Fill out the form on the right to check our availability for your date and to receive the full pricing guide.

 

quick inquiry

Contact us

bottom of page