The Santa Barbara Courthouse is more than just the “venue” or a backdrop, it’s a character of its own. With each couple, I look for new and unique ways to capture its beauty behind, beside and around you, to create a series of images that are cohesive, artistic, and always novel. 

An iconic space deserves a heartfelt nod

luke & morgan
august 2025

adeline & jim
june 2023

you don't have to know what you're doing

Maybe you have experience being in front of a camera, maybe you don’t. Either way, I will guide you & your partner in a way that feels easy, natural & fun. Let’s document your big day. 

Taking photos on your wedding day can feel like an entire production and if you aren’t someone who regularly has your photos taken in a professional and official manner, it can feel overwhelming and awkward, on top of all the nerves that come with saying “I Do” to someone for the rest of your life, perhaps in front of an entire audience, lol. My job is to make sure you feel comfortable in such a way that it feels like you were born to do this. The fact that I’ve photographed couples at the courthouse many, many times is half the battle and I hope that my ease and familiarity in the space will rub off on you and help us move through the day like we’ve done this together a dozen times before. 

Breaking it down, step-by-step

the process

1. You inquire: I’ll send over my complete pricing guide tailored to your kind of day, wedding or elopement.

2. We Zoom: If you’re interested in moving forward, we’ll hop on a call to meet virtually, discuss details, answer questions, and make sure we vibe with one another. 

3. You book: When you're ready, I’ll send over the contract and invoice for the retainer.
4. You're in: Once you're officially booked, I’m all yours. Text, email, or call me anytime. As your date approaches, I’ll gather your timeline, family shot list, and final details for day-of.

5. It’s go-time: Present and ready, let’s get you kids married.

6. Gallery day: Elopement photos arrive in 3–4 weeks, weddings in 4–6.

7. A heartfelt thank you: Truly. I’m so glad I got to be part of your day. Let’s do it again (jk). But friends? 

so how much is this going to cost?

The big question

I take immense pride in the work that I do, the art that I create and the memories I preserve for each and every couple I collaborate with. Your big day will come and go and despite everyone reminding you to be present and cherish every moment of that one day in your life, there will inevitably be so many little moments that are utterly fleeting or just slip away entirely. My mission is to immortalize the story of your wedding day, to share it with future generations of your family and to give you something to come back to when you miss it. Your wedding photos are an investment, but one that only multiplies in meaning over time, ultimately making them priceless. 

01

Elopements

For civil ceremony appointments and intimate weddings with <25 guests. Includes (but not limited to) coverage of the license signing, ceremony, and portraits, plus timeline building and all my local SB know-how.
Starting at $1,400

02

weddings

For guest lists >25 and couples that simply want more time. Coverage begins at 6 hours and formalities include getting ready, ceremony, portraits, reception, and everything in between.
Starting at $4,000

03

engagements

One hour at one location, in Santa Barbara or beyond. It’s a great way for us to meet and gives you an introduction to how I shoot. It’s also perfect if you need photos for save-the-dates, invitations, or just because.
Starting at $600

35mm film add on

Add some 90’s nostalgia. Do it. Film is available as an add-on to any package for timeless extras with a throwback vibe.

Now let’s make a weekend out of it

You found the prettiest courthouse in Socal

it's not just what i do, it's how I do it

Thoughtful, laid-back, and creatively catered to you.

Every couple, every game plan, every version of “we’re doing this our way” matters to me. I wholeheartedly love that you’re doing what’s true to you over what’s traditional. No awkward posing. Just honest connection, pretty photos, and the kind of support you would expect from your sister.

Shelby and Tre

"michelle is not just a photographer"

She’s an artist, a storyteller, a hype woman, and a true professional. She cares deeply about her couples and pours her heart into what she does. I feel endlessly grateful to have had her by our side on such a meaningful day. If you’re considering working with Michelle, don’t hesitate—run, don’t walk. She is everything you could hope for and so much more.

Madison and Julius

"I absolutely recommend her 10x over"

Every moment working with her was enjoyable and she meshed so well with our families like we had known her for years! She captured the emotion in every moment and helped guide my husband and I to the most breath-taking portraits that we haven’t been able to stop looking. So happy to have found Michelle.

eleanor and tom

"she will take great care of you"

Even though we live in the UK and gave her very little direction, she somehow managed to capture our relationship so perfectly - every photo felt honest, natural, and full of heart. Meeting her at the Santa Barbara Courthouse felt like reconnecting with an old friend. She made us feel completely at ease, and that warmth shines through in every shot. We’re so grateful for Michelle.

eleanor and tom

"she will take great care of you"

Even though we live in the UK and gave her very little direction, she somehow managed to capture our relationship so perfectly - every photo felt honest, natural, and full of heart. Meeting her at the Santa Barbara Courthouse felt like reconnecting with an old friend. She made us feel completely at ease, and that warmth shines through in every shot. We’re so grateful for Michelle.

FREQUENTLY ASKED questions

Just some things people usually want to know before booking. If your question isn’t here, feel free to shoot me an email- happy to help.