turning love stories into art

AS FEATURED IN

Photographer Carmela Joy Best Wedding Photographers in Arizona 2024 award

what i do

my approach

While anyone can capture the big moments, I specialize in documenting those small, easily overlooked, in-between moments that add so much to your story. The way your partner squeezes your hand before you walk down the aisle. The teary-eyed hug from your grandma. That wild dance floor moment with your college besties you’ll never fully remember but always be glad you have a photo of.

I want you to feel everything when you look at your photos - from the joy and celebration to the tears, laughter, and those quiet little pauses in between. My mission is to give you photos that transport you right back to those moments years later, reminding you not just of how your wedding looked, but exactly why you chose each other.

I approach every wedding with a mix of documentary-style storytelling and editorial portraiture. Think: artful images that wouldn’t look out of place in a magazine, but still feel like you. After capturing over 250 weddings, I’ve learned that the best photos happen when you feel comfortable, seen, and celebrated - so I take the time to get to know you before your day, so when it comes, you’ve got a friend there with a camera.

Whether you’re exchanging vows on a cliffside in Italy, an oceanside villa in Mexico, or in a candlelit garden in France, I’m there to capture the real, the artful, and the moments you’ll treasure most.

Meet Carmela

Welcome and thank you for stopping by! I'm Carmela - an editorial and documentary-style wedding photographer based in Arizona, but traveling wherever your love story takes you. I’m drawn to couples who care about more than just the pretty details. The ones who want a marriage even more beautiful than their wedding day, but still know how to throw a killer party.

My work is inspired by genuine connection, those fleeting, unscripted moments, and creating artful images that feel like you. I believe your wedding day isn’t a show - it’s a collection of meaningful, heart-filled moments that deserve to be remembered as they were.

I feel endlessly grateful to travel for this work, telling love stories against some of the most breathtaking backdrops in the world. From sun-soaked villas in Italy to intimate garden gatherings in France, it’s a true honor every time I get invited into a couple’s story.

If you're dreaming up something intentional, heartfelt, and a little bit editorial, I’d love to be a part of it.

Turning Love Stories Into Art

Turning Love Stories Into Art

see my packages

Weddings

Your love story deserves an unforgettable setting and a destination wedding is the perfect way to turn your celebration into the ultimate experience for you and your guest. Whether you're exchanging vows in a European castle or atop a scenic mountain in Greece, I’ll be there to document every moment of your perfect day. My destination wedding packages are tailored with care to capture the energy and intimacy of your day, whether it's a multi-day adventure with your favorite people or a private elopement that’s just for the two of you. Wherever your story takes you, I’m here to help you remember not just how it looked, but how it felt to be a part of it.

Intimate.

Joyful.

Heartfelt.

Intimate. Joyful. Heartfelt.

READY TO WORK TOGETHER?

We might be a good fit if…..

  • You value connection, trust your people, and want to be fully present on your wedding day.

  • You feel connected to my work and love everything about my style.

  • You don't care about traditions and want to make your day unique to you.

  • You love to travel, explore new places, and dream of a wedding that feels like you.

  • You could see us staying friends long after the last song plays.

  • You’re drawn to honest, effortless, artful photos over anything too stiff or staged.

Sound like you? I’d love to meet you! Use the link below to get in touch!