imagery that evokes emotion

MY Philosophy.


Your day is more than just a pose — and it should be documented as so.


Documentary wedding style photography isn't a style being applied to your photos in post processing, it's a whole mindset. Words that come to mind when describing this style are candid, joyful, emotional, elements of storytelling, with moments being genuine and unscripted.


Everly Collective was founded with the intent to create emotional elicitation through artful documentation. Inspired by light, movement, emotion, and love. My style is characterized by my ability to create honest connection while timelessly preserving your memories. My unobtrusive presence allows me to capture fleeting moments with intentionality, and an artful eye. You shouldn't receive a gallery that looks like any old Instagram post, I want to deliver art that makes you feel something.


So, if you value the honest nature of a photojournalistic approach with an editorial take, then I am the girl for you.


love notes

love notes

JAIME + JOHN

JAIME + JOHN

John’s grandma literally just called us to tell us how lovely and beautiful our “head photographer lady” was lol!
Grandma was a big fan of you!! She said — “Best I’ve ever seen and I’m almost 90”.

01 / 06
01 / 06

HI, I'M SAMI

nice to meet you.


I am passionate about storytelling through images that elicit an emotional response. I consider myself to be a artful documentary photographer— leaving out the cold forced poses, to focus on the beauty of those authentic in-between moments. I combine both digital and film, to produce modern storytelling for nostalgic hearts.


A blurb about me— I was born again in 2015, I married the hottest human in 2017, gave birth to my beautiful boy in 2018, welcomed our darling daughter in 2021, and recently brought into the world our second son. I love ocean waves, little feet, and anything with a motor.

pricing & Details

COLLECTION 01


This is my most exclusive collection, providing you with all the bests — proper time to capture your morning prep all the way into dancing the night away, a second shooter to capture your day from multiple perspectives, authentic 35mm film to further intertwine emotive art, as well a complementary 90 minute engagement session.


It is a huge benefit to both of us to meet in person before you say "I do". That's why I include an engagement session! This allows us to develop our connection on a deeper level. We will custom tailor your engagement session to tell your love story intentionally and authentically.


My goal is for our time together to feel like I am documenting a close friend. Sending me text updates of bridesmaid colors, floral arrangements, or an invite in the mail always fills my cup up. I enjoy the entire creative process so please don't feel like you have to hold back!


COLLECTION 01


This is my most exclusive collection, providing you with all the bests — proper time to capture your morning prep all the way into dancing the night away, a second shooter to capture your day from multiple perspectives, authentic 35mm film to further intertwine emotive art, as well a complementary 90 minute engagement session.


It is a huge benefit to both of us to meet in person before you say "I do". That's why I include an engagement session! This allows us to develop our connection on a deeper level. We will custom tailor your engagement session to tell your love story intentionally and authentically.


My goal is for our time together to feel like I am documenting a close friend. Sending me text updates of bridesmaid colors, floral arrangements, or an invite in the mail always fills my cup up. I enjoy the entire creative process so please don't feel like you have to hold back!


COLLECTION DETAILS

+ 10 hours of coverage

+ second photographer

+ authentic 35mm film

+ 90 minute engagement session

+ luxe client gift box

+ access to my wedding guide

+ photography timeline planning

+ variety of in color and in b&w

+ sneak peek gallery delivered with 48 hours

+ print rights

+ private online gallery where you can download, order prints, and share

+ travel within the Chicago, Milwaukee, Rockford area included

starting at $8000

Collection 01

COLLECTION 02


Still just as exclusive as the above collection, minus the second shooter. If you're looking for full day coverage, striving for a more relaxed day, anticipate a smaller guest count (under 100) and/or plan to have everyone getting ready at the same location, then this might be the right collection for you!


We will put in all the hard work ahead of time, so come the day of your wedding you'll be able to fully immerse yourself into the events as they unfold.


COLLECTION 02


Still just as exclusive as the above collection, minus the second shooter. If you're looking for full day coverage, striving for a more relaxed day, anticipate a smaller guest count (under 100) and/or plan to have everyone getting ready at the same location, then this might be the right collection for you!


We will put in all the hard work ahead of time, so come the day of your wedding you'll be able to fully immerse yourself into the events as they unfold.


COLLECTION DETAILS

+ 10 hours of coverage

+ authentic 35mm film

+ 90 minute engagement session

+ luxe client gift box

+ access to my wedding guide

+ photography timeline planning

+ variety of in color and in b&w

+ sneak peek gallery delivered with 48 hours

+ print rights

+ private online gallery where you can download, order prints, and share

+ travel within the Chicago, Milwaukee, Rockford area included

starting at $7000

Collection 02

COLLECTION 03


My most popular collection. You would be surprised how fast time flies when you're truly present and embrace the beauty of your love with your nearest and dearest. Having a second shooter is ideal for when the bride/groom are getting ready at different locations. This also provides another perspective of your day. We can work together on a day of timeline to make sure we have adequate time for all the formalities, plus time to just soak in the fleeting moments.


COLLECTION 03


My most popular collection. You would be surprised how fast time flies when you're truly present and embrace the beauty of your love with your nearest and dearest. Having a second shooter is ideal for when the bride/groom are getting ready at different locations. This also provides another perspective of your day. We can work together on a day of timeline to make sure we have adequate time for all the formalities, plus time to just soak in the fleeting moments.


COLLECTION DETAILS

+ 8 hours of coverage

+ second photographer

+ authentic 35mm film

+ 60 minute engagement session

+ standard client gift box

+ photography timeline planning

+ access to my wedding guide

+ variety of in color and in b&w

+ sneak peek gallery delivered with 48 hours

+ print rights

+ private online gallery where you can download, order prints, and share

+ travel within the Chicago, Milwaukee, Rockford area included

starting at $6400

Collection 03

COLLECTION 04


Is the vibe of your day more relaxed, with everything taking place at the same location, and you're looking to keep the guest count down? This might be the collection for you. I typically recommend a second shooter if the bride/groom are getting ready at separate locations, if the guest count is more than 100, or if you have a very large wedding party. However if this isn't the vision you have for your day, then having me as the solo shooter is a perfect fit. You get all the benefits of the above collection, while saving a little extra to put towards another area of your day.


COLLECTION 04


Is the vibe of your day more relaxed, with everything taking place at the same location, and you're looking to keep the guest count down? This might be the collection for you. I typically recommend a second shooter if the bride/groom are getting ready at separate locations, if the guest count is more than 100, or if you have a very large wedding party. However if this isn't the vision you have for your day, then having me as the solo shooter is a perfect fit. You get all the benefits of the above collection, while saving a little extra to put towards another area of your day.


COLLECTION DETAILS

+ 8 hours of coverage

+ authentic 35mm film

+ 60 minute engagement session

+ standard client gift box

+ photography timeline planning

+ access to my wedding guide

+ variety of in color and in b&w

+ sneak peek gallery delivered with 48 hours

+ print rights

+ private online gallery where you can download, order prints, and share

+ travel within the Chicago, Milwaukee, Rockford area included

starting at $5600

Collection 04

COMPARE COLLECTIONS

 

 

COLLECTION 01


+ 10 hours of coverage

+ second shooter

+ authentic 35mm film

+ 90 minute engagement session

+ luxe client gift box



starting at

$8,000

 

 

 

 

COLLECTION 02


+ 10 hours of coverage

+ authentic 35mm film

+ 90 minute engagement session

+ luxe client gift box




starting at

$7,000

 

 

 

 

COLLECTION 03


+ 8 hours of coverage

+ second shooter

+ authentic 35mm film

+ 60 minute engagement session

+ standard client gift box



starting at

$6,400

 

 

 

 

COLLECTION 04


+ 8 hours of coverage

+ authentic 35mm film

+ 60 minute engagement session

+ standard client gift box




starting at

$5,600

 

 

ten hour sample timeline


12:00pm — Photography coverage begins / Getting ready details

1:00pm — Hair and makeup complete

1:15pm — Get dress on

1:30pm — Couple 'first look' and portraits

2:00pm — Wedding party photos

3:00pm — Family Photos

4:00pm — Family photographs finish, couple into hiding for guest arrival

4:30pm — Ceremony Begins

5:00pm — Cocktail Hour Begins

6:00pm — Ask guests to be seated for dinner 

6:15pm — Grand Entrance and Cake Cutting

6:30pm — Dinner Service Begins

7:00pm — Speeches

8:00pm — First dances

8:30pm — Dance floor opens

9:00pm — Bride's outfit change

9:45pm — Sparkler exit

10:00pm — Photography coverage ends

11:00 — Reception finishes

eight hour sample timeline


12:30pm — Photography coverage begins / Getting ready details

1:30pm — Hair and makeup complete

1:45pm — Bride into dress

2:00pm — Couple 'first look' and portraits

2:30pm — Wedding party photos

3:15pm — Family photographs

4:00pm — Family photographs finish, couple into hiding for guest arrival

4:30pm — Ceremony begins

5:00pm — Cocktail hour

6:00pm — Ask guests to be seated for dinner 

6:15 — Grand Entrance and Cake Cutting

6:30pm — Dinner Service Begins

7:00pm — Speeches

7:30pm — First dances

8:00 — Dance floor opens

8:30pm — Photography coverage ends

10:00pm — Reception finishes



 

we don't want your day to feel like a photoshoot. instead i look integrate myself into the folds so that I can catch the honest connections as they present themselves.

 

VIDEOAGRAPHY

SUPER 8 VIDEO


Super 8 mm film is motion-picture film. While any technology that allows for visual storytelling should be embraced— nothing beats film. This includes approximately 100ft of super 8 footage (4ish minutes), artfully pieced together over music, professionally processed and color graded.


*can be added to any photo collection*


starting at

$1,500




Sami Everly

Photographer

As a documentary photographer, I seek to elicit an emotional response through captivating imagery. I thrive in environments where I can be a gentle observer, catching your natural movements and raw emotions. I emphasize leaving out cold forced poses, to focus on authentic in-between moments. I have a passion to create and a yearn for connection, two driving forces that will make our experience together so unique.



Nikki Erin

videographer

My aim is to not only document your special day, but to weave together a cinematic masterpiece that you can cherish for years to come. For me, there's nothing more rewarding than getting to know a couple on a personal level and capturing the joy and happiness of their wedding day. As your videographer, I'll be there to document every special moment, from the exchanging of vows to the heartfelt toasts. Whether it's an elopement or a grand wedding celebration, my goal is to create a breathtaking film that transports you back to that magical day.

documenting your day, artfully and intentionally — as team


I am happy to announce that I have partnered with Nikki Erin Films to bring potential clients both photo and video coverage with artful eyes. If you book me for photo, and Nikki for video, you can expect deep emotive coverage of your day told from both perspectives. There is also the benefit of a cost savings on both sides —

  • Receive a complimentary hour of coverage with Sami
  • Receive a complimentary hour of coverage with Nikki


Get to know more about Nikki and her process here.


MY PROCESS AND HOW IT WORKS

01


You've read my philosophy and reviewed the details, and believe we are a good fit for each other! We will schedule a FaceTime to "meet" and talk through a few details.

02


We make it official! We will work together to choose the best collection for you then I will send over access to your client portal. Within the portal you will be able to sign your contract, pay your invoice, and access my EC Wedding Guide.

03


We will work together to finalize all the little details of your day. I have a questionnaire within your client portal that you can update as you go. I am always here to help with ideas, location scouting, or even offer vendor recommendations.

04


It's wedding day! Come ready to be open and vulnerable. We've put in all the scheduling work ahead of time so day of place no expectations and just let everything unfold as it is organically presented to us.

HOW TO BOOK



I am so honored to be considered to document a part of your story. If you align with my philosophy and connect with my work then let's make it official.


After our FaceTime call we can both confirm we are a perfect match. A 50% non-refundable retainer fee and custom contract will then be sent to secure your wedding date. Once that's all locked in, the fun of planning your engagement session begins!


HOW TO BOOK



I am so honored to be considered to document a part of your story. If you align with my philosophy and connect with my work then let's make it official.


After our FaceTime call we can both confirm we are a perfect match. A 50% non-refundable retainer fee and custom contract will then be sent to secure your wedding date. Once that's all locked in, the fun of planning your engagement session begins!


The FAQ

What is 35mm film photography?

If you were born in the late-80s/early-90s, do you remember the cameras our parents used to lug around for a family vacation? And the film they used to load into those? That was 35mm film. The most common analog photography today is either the 35mm film format, 120mm film format, or Polaroid film. Each refers to the size/type of film you’re using. Shooting in 35mm film makes me slow down and be more mindful of what I capture. Nothing beats the magic and tones of film. See your day with a little grit, nostalgia, and eclectic imperfection that only film can offer.

What is Super 8 film?

Super 8 is motion picture film, it short it is a video on rolling film. This is different from 35mm photography. (something I also offer). I adore the rawness, the perfect imperfections, and the emotion that comes from Super 8. It provides a look and feel that blends seamlessly with my film photography. These films are made by using old Super 8 cameras and Kodak 8mm film. The cameras make a gentle whirring sound as they roll, with beautiful light leaks, soft grain, and a certain magic that can’t be felt or replicated with digital video. Every wedding film is truly unique.

Where are you based?

I am located in Crystal Lake, IL but I am often traveling to Chicago, MKE, and Madison. I have also been called to Nevada, California and Florida — I am always looking to explore more places!

Do you travel? Is there a fee?

Yes I travel! Travel is included as long at your wedding/engagement takes place within the Chicago, Rockford, Milwaukee radius. Anything outside of that will acquire a travel fee. This fee will vary depending on where you would like me to travel to! Sometimes I require flight/hotel accommodations depending on the circumstances. This is something we can discuss more!

Do you create custom packages?

You bet! If don't see a collection that has what you're looking for, let's work together to tailor a package that fits your needs. For example, we can have a second shooter for just part of the day to save a little $. Or you can omit the 35mm film coverage for another cost savings.

Do you pose us?

I thrive in an environment where I can truly connect with the couples presented to me. My goal is for this to feel more like friends hanging out, rather than a stranger pointing a camera at you. While I prefer to be a gentle observer, I will help direct you with actions and provide verbal cues, but I don't necessarily line you up and then say "say cheese". Unless it comes to formal family portraits, then yes I am happy to provide direction for how to line up.

How many photos do we get?

I guarantee a minimum of 75 photos per hour.

What's your turn around time?

Engagement sessions are delivered within 4-6 weeks. Weddings are delivered 6-8 weeks depending on the collection book and if authentic film/super 8 is included.

How do we get our photos?

You will receive all of your photos through a private, online gallery. Your gallery is emailed to you and images are easy to download and share!

Can you help us with planning/conceptualization?

Of course! If you have a base concept for the kind of vibe you are going for, we can work together to create a Pinterest board of ideas. I am also happy to recommend any locations or vendors needed — bridal shop, florist, hair and makeup etc. I love to get creative so please don't feel like you have to hold back!

What is your cancelation/reschedule policy?

I get it, uncontrollable things come up, life happens. I am happy to accommodate one reschedule date. We would work together to confirm a new date. After that you may be subject to booking my current rate of the rebooking time. If you need to cancel our time completely, while there is a non-refundable retainer, you would be released from the remainder of your contracted amount upon receiving your signed cancelation contract.

A NOTE ON AVAILABILITY

I am beyond grateful you are here and interested in my work. If you still have questions before taking the next step please don't hesitate to reach out, I am here to help! I only take on limited and select opportunities so that I can be fully present for each of my couples. Please note that I do book out pretty far in advance, so it's best to get in touch with me sooner, rather than later, to avoid any disappointment.


Thanks so much for reaching out and I look forward to potentially documenting your love story!