We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elise Filliccia. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elise below.

Elise, appreciate you joining us today. One of the things we most admire about small businesses is their ability to diverge from the corporate/industry standard. Is there something that you or your brand do that differs from the industry standard? We’d love to hear about it as well as any stories you might have that illustrate how or why this difference matters.

Within wedding photography, there’s an industry-standard approach: pre-set collections, shot lists, and a style that starts to feel repetitive. But for me, photography has never been about fitting into a box. It’s about creating an experience that feels real, atmospheric, and deeply personal.

One of the biggest ways my brand differs from the industry norm is in how I approach my clients. I don’t believe in a salesy approach. I believe in real connection. Weddings aren’t just events to document, and couples aren’t just clients. They are people inviting me into one of the most significant days of their lives, trusting me to see them as they are. That trust is everything. Instead of one-size-fits-all wedding collections, I create custom proposals tailored to each couple’s vision. By steering away industry norms, I focus on what actually matters. The energy of the day, the unexpected in-between moments, and photos that make you feel something.

I also set myself apart by my hybrid medium of both film and digital photography. Blending both brings a richness to the final gallery. Film’s nostalgic softness paired with digital’s quick versatility. My couples trust me to move fluidly between the two, leaning into the medium that best captures the mood of the moment. I’m deeply passionate about film, the slowness, the imperfections, the way it makes me see differently. But ultimately, when you hire me, you’re trusting in my vision and my art. Which medium I use is something I follow intuitively, always with the final gallery in mind. The process is mine, but the result is always something you’ll feel.

One client’s wedding at The Vendue in Charleston really brought my approach to life. Their ceremony was held in an art gallery, an intimate space filled with natural light and bold textures. Instead of sticking to shot list, I let the space and the moment guide me. A black-and-white film frame captured the bride in a quiet, unposed moment before walking down the aisle, while a cinematic digital shot froze the excitement of the couple’s joyful exit as guests cheered. These photos weren’t just about documenting the day. They reflected the true mood, moments, and feeling of the celebration.

For me, breaking from the industry standard is about making space for artistry, authenticity, and a client experience that feels effortless yet deeply intentional. I don’t just follow trends or mold myself into a traditional way of doing things. I make my process my own, using my vision and creativity. I became a wedding photographer to make a living as an artist, and that’s exactly what I’m embracing in this chapter of my life. It’s about creating something real, personal, and entirely reflective of who I am and how I see the world.

Elise, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Elise, a wedding photographer who focuses on capturing the real moments, energy, and emotion of a wedding day. I first got into photography because I’ve always been drawn to photojournalism, and I’ve built my business around creating a personal experience for each client. I blend both film and digital photography to create images that feel authentic, timeless, and true to each couple. What sets me apart is my focus on connection and artistry, not just checking off a shot list. I’m proud of how my work continues to evolve and the relationships I build with my clients. When you work with me, you’re collaborating with someone who’s deeply invested in documenting your life in a meaningful, creative way. If you’re looking for an experience that feels personal and reflective of who you are, we’re a great fit.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The best source of new clients for me has definitely been the relationships I’ve built with other vendors, especially wedding planners and industry professionals. When they trust me and my work, they’re confident referring me to couples who value a personalized, creative approach. Those connections have led to some of my best clients, and working alongside such talented people always makes the experience better for everyone involved.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

I can’t point to just one book or course that has significantly shaped my approach. My drive and art has always come from within. But I’m constantly seeking new education, attending industry events, and reading business or personal growth books. I will say if you’re a photographer, since I was young, I have been enamored with photography books, so I recommend reading or viewing those of your favorite artists. I believe growth comes from staying open, learning from different perspectives, and pushing myself to evolve, both as an artist and a business owner.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://elisefilliccia.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisefilliccia/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elisefillicciaphoto

Image Credits

Elise Filliccia Photography