Business Details
14 Years
experience
Your Trusted Wedding Photographer in Raleigh, NC
We are Elyssa & John Kivus, a husband-and-wife wedding photography team based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Our journey began with a shared passion for photography that evolved from personal interest to professional dedication after Elyssa's life-changing brain surgery in 2012. With backgrounds in photojournalism and software law respectively, we combine artistic vision with technical precision to create bold, colorful, and magical wedding memories. Our approach focuses on capturing genuine moments and creating artistic portraits that make every client feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.We specialize in documenting love stories with authenticity, celebrating the unique personalities of each couple we work with. Our process is designed to be seamless and stress-free, from initial consultation through final delivery of high-quality images. We pride ourselves on being approachable, organized, and dedicated professionals who genuinely care about our clients' experiences. Our work has been celebrated for its vibrant style, creative use of light and color, and ability to capture both grand moments and subtle details with equal artistry.
Services
Wedding Photography
Artistic Portraits
Event Coverage
Online Galleries
Print Services
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer over a decade of professional wedding photography experience since 2012
- Our team combines photojournalism expertise with artistic direction for unique storytelling
- We specialize in making clients feel comfortable through personalized, stress-free sessions
- Our vibrant editing style creates visually striking images that stand out
- We provide seamless online galleries with easy download and print options
What people say
Amazing photographers
Beautiful memories
Stunning images
Easy to work with
Artistic excellence
Services
Wedding Photography
We document weddings from preparation through reception with photojournalistic storytelling and artistic direction. Our approach captures candid moments while creating timeless portraits that reflect each couple's unique personality. Clients receive high-resolution digital files with print rights and access to curated print services.
Artistic Portraits
We create vibrant, color-rich portraits that highlight subjects' natural beauty and relationships. Through expert lighting and composition, we transform ordinary moments into extraordinary art pieces that clients proudly display in their homes and share with future generations.
Online Galleries
We deliver images through user-friendly online platforms with secure access and easy download options. Our galleries include print shops for professional products and tools for sharing with friends and family through social media or email.
Print Services
We offer professional printing options for wall art, albums, and keepsakes through our partnered print labs. Our curated selection ensures archival quality materials that maintain the vibrancy and detail of our original captures.
Consultation
We provide personalized planning consultations to understand clients' vision and create customized timelines. Our experience helps couples navigate their special day with confidence, ensuring optimal lighting and scheduling for perfect photo opportunities.
People
Elyssa Kivus
Lead Photographer
Former divorce attorney turned award-winning photographer with a photojournalism background. Specializes in making subjects feel comfortable while capturing authentic moments. Known for creative use of light and color in wedding storytelling.
John Kivus
Co-Photographer
Software and intellectual property attorney by day, skilled photographer by passion. Provides technical expertise and second-shooter support. Manages business operations while contributing to the team's distinctive visual style.
Questions
Do you photograph weddings outside Raleigh?
Yes! While based in Raleigh, we photograph weddings throughout North Carolina including Durham, Chapel Hill, and surrounding areas.
How do you handle group photos?
We efficiently organize family portraits while keeping sessions light-hearted. Our experience helps groups feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera.
What's your editing style?
We use vibrant, colorful editing that enhances natural tones while maintaining timeless quality. Our style balances bold colors with classic elements.
How long until we receive photos?
Wedding galleries are delivered within 6-8 weeks with sneak peeks available sooner. Portrait sessions are completed in 2-3 weeks.
Can we print our photos?
Absolutely! You'll receive print rights with high-resolution files and access to professional printing services through our online galleries.
How do you handle bad weather?
We creatively adapt to weather conditions using umbrellas, indoor locations, and alternative compositions to maintain visual quality.
