Carmelisse Photography – Capturing Love with Light, Soul, and Storytelling
At Synergy Events, we’re passionate about working with vendors who not only excel at their craft but bring warmth, professionalism, and genuine joy to every wedding. That’s why we’re thrilled to feature Carmelisse Photography—a visual artist whose romantic, true-to-you style has made her a favorite among couples and creatives alike.
🎙️ Q&A with Carmelisse of Carmelisse Photography
Name: Carmelisse
Business Name: Carmelisse Photography
Based In: Los Angeles, CA
Specialty: Wedding + Lifestyle Photography
Website: www.carmelissephotography.com
Instagram: @carmelissephotography
Years in Business: 7 years
Fun Fact: I lived in New Zealand for a year
🎤 Interview with Carmelisse
1. How did you get started in wedding photography? What drew you to it?
My journey into wedding photography was unexpected, but my love for photography has been with me for as long as I can remember.
Growing up, I used to put makeup on my sister, dress her up, and turn our living room into a makeshift studio. Those early shoots sparked a passion that evolved into editorial photography and later expanded into travel photography while working for a travel company.
I never imagined I could build a career around wedding photography until friends started getting engaged and married. One day, I was asked to photograph a wedding with zero experience. But I had the gear, the skills, and the curiosity to try. So I did.
From that first wedding, things snowballed through word of mouth. What keeps me grounded and inspired in this business is the pure joy of capturing one of the most meaningful days of a couple’s life. Documenting their love story, surrounded by friends and family, is an experience that never loses its magic.
2. How would you describe your style and approach when photographing weddings?
I’m drawn to documentary style wedding photography, images that feel organic, nostalgic, and timeless.
My goal is to capture moments that transport you back to that day, letting you relive not just how it looked, but how it felt. To do that, I believe it’s essential to truly get to know my couples. I treat them like family, building a genuine connection that allows trust to flourish.
That trust matters. It’s what helps my couples feel comfortable in front of the camera, letting their true selves shine through. By the time I photograph their wedding, I already know how they like to be captured, what makes them feel confident, and what moments matter most to them.
On the wedding day, I approach it as if I were a close cousin with a camera—intimately involved yet seamlessly in the background. My focus is not just on the big moments but the quiet, candid ones that unfold naturally, telling their love story with authenticity and heart.
3. What’s your favorite moment to capture during a wedding day?
It’s honestly different for every wedding because each couple brings their own unique energy and moments. But if I had to choose, my favorite moments to photograph are usually the first looks, romantics, and the details.
First looks are so raw and intimate. You get to witness that genuine reaction when they see each other for the first time. Romantics are where I can really get creative and capture their connection in a beautiful, authentic way. And I love photographing the details, too. The little things that tell the story of the day, from heirloom jewelry to handwritten vows. It’s those personal touches that make each wedding so special.
4. What advice do you give to couples looking to get the best photos on their wedding day?
My biggest advice is to stop worrying about everything being picture-perfect and just enjoy your day. The best photos come from real, unfiltered moments when you’re laughing with your friends, tearing up during your vows, or dancing like nobody’s watching. Those are the memories that matter. Trust me, years from now, you won’t remember that one hair strand that wouldn’t stay in place or that tiny wrinkle no one else even noticed. What you’ll remember is how you felt—and that’s what I aim to capture.
5. Can you tell us about one of your most memorable weddings?
One of my most memorable weddings was in Jamaica at this beautiful resort. The couple was super adventurous, and the day after their wedding, they decided to dive into the ocean in full wedding attire. It was so spontaneous and so them. I remember snapping photos as they laughed and swam around, her dress floating in the water. It was one of the most epic things I’ve ever photographed, and it just reminded me how much I love capturing those real, unfiltered moments.
6. How do you collaborate with DJs or other vendors on the day-of?
Collaborating with DJs and other vendors on the wedding day is so crucial. We’re all there for the same reason, which is to make sure the couple has the best day ever. I like to touch base with the DJ before key moments like the first dance or speeches, so we’re all in sync. It’s really about communication and making sure we’re all on the same page so things flow smoothly. When everyone’s working together, it just makes the day that much more seamless and fun.
7. What do you love most about working in the wedding industry?
Believe it or not, I’m actually a true introvert. But every once in a while, I love getting out there and socializing. And weddings have really brought that out of me. It’s given me the chance to connect with so many amazing couples and build a community of creatives who share the same passion. I never expected that side of it, but it’s been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
8. What’s one thing that sets you apart from other photographers?
What really sets me apart is the connection I build with my couples. I’m not just showing up to take photos. I genuinely take the time to get to know them, understand their story, and make them feel comfortable. By the time the wedding day comes, it feels like I’m more of a friend capturing their big day. And it doesn’t just stop there. I often end up becoming their lifelong photographer, documenting their anniversaries, maternity, and family moments as their lives grow and change. Being part of those chapters is something I truly cherish.
9. Any tips for couples who are camera shy?
My biggest tip is to just relax and be yourselves. There’s no need to ‘perform’ or pose perfectly. I like to keep things natural and low-pressure, often turning the camera off for a bit so you can just enjoy the moment. We focus on real interactions like laughing, whispering, walking together, etc. That way, your genuine connection shines through. The more comfortable you feel, the better the photos will be. Trust me, I’ll guide you every step of the way so it feels easy and even fun!
10. Where can couples find you online or connect with you?
Let’s be friends on Instagram! @carmelissephotography or shoot me an email at hello@carmelisse.com.
🤝 Why We Love Working With Carmelisse
Carmelisse brings calm energy, thoughtful communication, and an artistic eye to every event. Whether she’s capturing candid joy on the dance floor or dreamy sunset portraits, her photos tell the story of the day with authenticity and elegance.
If you’re still looking for the perfect photographer who blends warmth, artistry, and professionalism—we can’t recommend Carmelisse enough.
📌 Explore her work here: www.carmelissephotography.com
📱 Follow her on Instagram: @carmelissephotography
