I’m so excited to introduce you to Marina! She started working with me as a second photographer back in 2022 and quickly became someone I couldn’t imagine our team without. By day, Marina works a 9-5 in IT, but she’s been in love with photography since childhood, when her dad first started handing her his cameras. That mix of two worlds shows up in everything she does: she’s incredibly organized and detail-oriented, and she pours real creative passion into making sure every couple gets the highest quality photos of their day. Keep reading to get to know Marina, from the moment she got her first camera to her favorite venue tucked away in the Wisconsin woods. And when you’re done, you can see her full associate portfolio here.

Tell us about your journey in photography so far! How long have you been a photographer? How many weddings have you shot? What have you learned along the way?

I’ve been shooting professionally since 2019, but have had a lifelong love of photography! I got my love for photography from my dad, who shared all of his cameras with me until I bought my first camera in 2016. Over the years, my camera has felt a little like an extension of my arm, almost always with me and ready to capture the world around me at any moment! When I first started my photography journey, I took pictures of everything that I could, and that really helped me hone in on my love of capturing authentic everyday moments.  I love capturing unscripted smiles and laughter, the looks between two people that overflow with love for each other, and trying to bottle up everything you might have been feeling in that moment into picture form. I’ve photographed everything from couples to families and seniors, proposals, maternity sessions, headshots, and more. I’ve photographed 25 weddings and every single one has been a joy to be a part of! 

What’s your favorite part of being an associate for Celisia Stanton Photography?

There are so many reasons I love being an associate! One of the top reasons is the flexibility. I have a 9-5 job working in IT that I love, and working as an associate allows me to still shoot with amazing clients and pursue my creative passions, while also maintaining balance in my life. I also love the clients! Celisia’s clients are really the loveliest people to work with. I love the connections I’m able to form with them, and I always leave with my cup overflowing with joy and love. 

What’s your favorite part of a wedding day to capture?

I love getting to hang back and snap a few photos right after the ceremony with just the couple. There’s a big sigh of relief that the ceremony is over and the oh my god we’re married feeling! Getting to witness that moment is one of the best parts of the day. 

What’s your go-to wedding day advice for soon-to-be married couples?

Don’t be afraid to take a few minutes to pause and breathe. I highly recommend building a few breaks into your schedule. Your wedding day is going to be an amazing celebration that is both exhilarating and exhausting. Pausing to catch your breath and spend time with just you and your partner, even for a couple of minutes, can make a huge difference.  Especially right after your ceremony when your adrenaline is rushing, it’s great to have a few minutes before you go and celebrate with your people. The day will go by in a blur. Don’t be afraid to take a minute to soak it all in! 

What would you say to a couple who is nervous about having their picture taken?

It’s ok to feel nervous! I’ve been a photographer for years, and even I still feel awkward in front of the camera sometimes! Together we’ll figure out what poses feel the most natural and comfortable, and after a few minutes, you’ll forget that you’re having your photo taken. There will be times when you’ll have me to hype you up and cheer you on, and there will be times when we have your family and friends to laugh and smile with you. My goal for our time together is not only to capture amazing memories but to have fun while doing it! 

What are some of your favorite venues you’ve worked at?

In the Twin Cities, I’ve loved working at the Essence Event Center, The Van Dusen Mansion, St. Paul College Club, Nicollet Island Pavilion, and Mill City Museum. I love a historic building that has been lovingly preserved and given a second life as a wedding venue. 

(Celisia here! Do you also love St. Paul College Club? Take a peek at a wedding I photographed there.)

One of my all-time favorite venues is The Atrium out in Solon Springs, WI, just south of Duluth. It’s a stunning venue centered around a restored greenhouse in the woods. The owners have thoughtfully designed the venue to have spaces that photograph beautifully. 

Are you a cat person, a dog person, or neither? Why?

Both! I  unfortunately don’t have a pet of my own right now, but I’ve luckily surrounded myself with lots of friends and family members who gladly share their pets with me!