Person in a sparkly dress and fur shawl dances with cocktail at a party.
A couple celebrates at their outdoor wedding reception with guests while standing on a wooden deck overlooking the water.
Kailee Rei Photography chicago editorial and documentary style wedding photographer

your Experience

Working with Kailee
Close-up detail shot of delicate lace on a white wedding dress with hands shown adjusting the fabric.
Two martini glasses clink together in dimly lit bar setting.
Black and white photograph of joyful dancing moment under string lights.
Hand with engagement ring touches tropical palm leaves in garden setting.
Black and white image of champagne glasses clinking during a wedding toast.
White hydrangea blooms clustered together against green leaves in garden setting.

Kailee Rei photography

 

 

offers a unique and artful experience designed for couples who value antique inspired elegance and storytelling. With a refined, editorial approach and an eye for detail, I create imagery that feels both effortless and elevated. I’ll guide you through an array of traditional, candid, and editorial posing to create my signature magazine ready feel, while also stepping back to document the real, unscripted moments as they unfold. The result is a seamless, and fun experience that allows you to be fully present and stress free.

Silhouette of photographer holding vintage camera against white background.
Meet the Photographer

My approach

I believe that the most compelling images come from a balance of guidance and presence. During the engagement sessions, I gently lead and offer direction to create a relaxing, yet fun and helpful environment creating beautiful moments that still feel like you.




On the wedding day, I take a quieter, off to the side role, allowing moments to unfold naturally while observing with a thoughtful, artful eye. I step in with guidance during portraits, bridal party, and family photos to help with posing, where to look, what to do with your hands, those questions that add up. Additionally, I also curate each gallery with intention by choosing locations that complement your color palette or reflect the tone of your mood board, and ensuring the final collection feels cohesive and refined. For the rest of the day, I step back and hold space for real moments and raw emotion.




The result is a collection of images that feels composed yet organic, filled with beauty, emotion, and all of the small details that make your day true.

Intimate black and white wedding photograph capturing a tender romantic moment.

 

the process

 

Step 01
Beautiful pastel wedding bouquets featuring roses, delphiniums and eucalyptus in soft pink and blue tones.

let's chat

The first step is a simple hello.

Fill out the contact form to get in touch.

 

Step 02
Black and white architectural photograph of an ornate domed glass ceiling with geometric patterns.

 

get in touch

 

Once you’ve submitted the contact form, we’ll schedule a phone consultation to discuss the details of your day and explore which collection best fits your vision and needs.

Step 03
Elegant wedding toast detail with crystal glasses and a white calla lily boutonniere.

Sign contract

Once we've found the perfect collection, the final step is to secure your date with a signed contract and retainer. Then, the journey officially begins.

Ready to Connect?

 

 

Garden scene with person in white lace dress holding flower by ornamental pond.
A romantic scene at an ivy-covered building entrance with grand wooden doors and stone steps.
A couple walking down a tree-lined garden path in their wedding attire.
A couple sharing an intimate moment on a park bench under a shady tree.
A couple embracing near a vintage lamp post on a romantic garden pathway.
A playful dance move captured during a wedding reception in a bright indoor venue.

FAQ

01. How do we book you for the wedding?

We’ll begin with a phone consultation to connect, walk through your vision, make sure we're a good fir and answer any questions you may have. From there, reserving your date is just a signed contract and a retainer. Once those are in place, your wedding date is officially secured and we can begin planning your engagement session!

 

02. Do you travel for destination weddings?

 

Of course :)

 

What is the experience like after the wedding? when will our images be ready, and how are they delivered?

 

Within 48 hours, you’ll receive handpicked and edited previews to relive your day right away and share with loved ones. Your full gallery will be delivered within 6–8 weeks, hosted in a private high-resolution online gallery. From there, you’ll have access to download, share, print and begin the process of turning your images into heirloom albums and keepsakes.

 

04. Do you offer engagement sessions?

 

Yes, every wedding collection I offer includes an engagement session. This time together is essential, not only for capturing beautiful images in a more relaxed setting, but also for building a connection before the wedding day. It allows you to feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera, and gives us a chance to create something meaningful that reflects you as a couple.