Paying Attention Is
The Whole Point
Illinois and Wisconsin Wedding Photographer
Serving couples in Northern Illinois, Chicago, Lake Geneva, Southern Wisconsin, and worldwide since 2016 — documentary, candid, and editorial. For the ones who want to remember how it felt. Based in McHenry County, IL.
I don't photograph weddings the same way twice because I can't
Documentary, Candid, and Editorial Photographer
I move between documentary, candid, and editorial depending on what each moment calls for. Fly on the wall most of the time. Intentional and directive when the light and emotion demand it. Most couples ask me what my style is. Here's my answer: I just call it paying attention.
Every wedding is loaded with intricacies. Emotion. History. Things that are specific to you and nobody else; it's never the same love twice, and your photos shouldn't be either.
You shouldn't have to worry about the camera on your wedding day — your only job is to marry your favorite human. I've got you.
Find Your Photographer — In all seriousness, I hope it's me
My Photography Philosophy
I am not for everyone — and I’m okay with that. My deepest hope is that you find your best fit photographer; even if that means it isn’t me.
I'm for the couples who'd rather grab each other mid-spin on the dance floor than stand still and smile at a camera. Who yell their vows over the wind and think that's better anyway. Who sneak a bite of each other's cake before anyone cuts it — and somehow that ends up being their favorite photo from the whole day.
I'm not here to manage your wedding day. I'm here to chase it. The light, the chaos, the moment your grandma loses it before you even make it down the aisle. My job is to already be there when it happens. Learn more about my wedding photography packages here.
We have ugly tears to cry and dance floors to ruin.
Wedding photographer since 2016 / 5 times mom (furry & human) / Husband's girl
Hi, I’m Nicole Kilday
Your Photographer, Creative Director + Chaos Coordinator since 2016
Since 2016 — and I'm still crying behind the camera at every single wedding.
Third-generation photographer. Cameras were basically furniture growing up — my dad learned in a basement darkroom, my grandpa taught him to pay attention, and somewhere along the way that became my whole thing too. Photos are proof. That you were here. That you loved. That it mattered.
I want your photos to be your proof of time — and I want to get there by paying attention. All you have to do is marry your best friend.
let's talk about what you're actually here for
What Do I Photograph?
Beginning at $4,195 / most couples invest $5,300–$6,200
Beginning at $1,795 / weekday courthouse + adventure elopements available
Beginning at $500 / Most families invest $950-$1,250
2026 & 2027 Bookings Open
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Weddings Photographed / 120+
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Families Documented / 180+
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2026 & 2027 Bookings Open ⌁ Weddings Photographed / 120+ ⌁ Families Documented / 180+ ⌁
Real Words from Real Couples
★★★★★
“Every moment she captured feels real, not staged — and brings us right back to how the day felt."
“We honestly can’t say enough good things about Nicole.
Believe it or not it was the first time I met Nicole and it felt like having a close friend around, not just someone there to take pictures. Nicole made being in front of the camera natural and fun. We were laughing, relaxed, and just genuinely happy. Of course our photos most definitely reflect that. Every moment she captured feels real, not staged, and looking back at them brings us right back to how the day felt.
If you’re looking for someone who’s not only talented but also a blast to be around on your big day, this is your person. We’re beyond grateful.”
★★★★★
“Her presence gave me such a sense of calm and reassurance.”
“I have known Nicole for many years now and first and foremost, she is a beautiful person inside and out. Her kindness radiates in every room she is in! When my now husband and I got engaged back in 2023, there was not a doubt or question in my mind who I wanted as our wedding photographer; Nicole Kilday!!!!! The candidness and realness of her photos were beyond beautiful and awe-filled. Nicole’s art is the epitome of life, love, candidness, and real moments captured. Her presence gave me such a sense of calm and reassurance. She is truly one of a kind.”
★★★★★
“She truly wants your photos to reflect who YOU are. She is down to earth, prepared, and on her A-game.”
“Nicole shot my surprise elopement and when I say that day would not have been possible without her, I mean it. She truly wants your photos to reflect who YOU are. She is down to earth, prepared, and on her A-game. She may be small, but she is mighty and will get the job done right! I can’t recommend her enough. 10/10.”
