Today we’d like to introduce you to Madison Pekarek.
Madison, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey here started long before I ever picked up a camera professionally. I’m the youngest of seven, and growing up, my mom *loved* family photos, especially our infamous Christmas cards. The problem? Getting all of us to cooperate for one photo felt like it took hours, and I grew to hate being in front of the camera. Eventually, I started offering to be the one *behind* the lens instead, and something clicked. That tiny spark of curiosity turned into something much bigger over time.
Even though I always knew photography was what I wanted to do, I followed the “safe path,” went to college, got the degree, landed the corporate job. But the office life didn’t fulfill me. It wasn’t until I had my first child and found myself trying to juggle two jobs and motherhood that I realized I couldn’t keep doing it all. That season pushed me to finally pursue photography full-time.
What truly sealed the deal was how I felt after photographing weddings. There’s this deep, emotional connection when I’m invited into such an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime moment. Capturing genuine smiles, quiet tears, and those beautiful, in-between moments gives me this warm, soul-deep joy. I’m passionate about making people feel genuinely seen and celebrated—because everyone deserves to feel that way on their wedding day.. My purpose is to make people feel seen, celebrated, and loved through the way I document their story.
Unfortunately, I think the wedding industry has gotten a little lost—focusing more on perfection and profit than the actual people. I’m here to do the opposite. I want to document the side of you that doesn’t always feel seen and preserve the moments that often go unnoticed. Because those are the ones that matter most.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I believe every step shaped me into the photographer and business owner I am today. After college and getting married, I stepped into the corporate world while building my photography business in the evenings and on weekends. I was basically working two full-time jobs and when I became a mom after COVID, I hit a breaking point. I couldn’t give 40 hours to my day job, another 40 to my business, and still be the wife and mother I wanted to be. It was one of the hardest transitions, but truly, the Lord made a way. Looking back, I’m so grateful for the challenges because they forced me to fully step into this calling.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in capturing the side of people that often goes unseen the natural, unposed, deeply emotional moments that slip by unnoticed. My work is rooted in connection, and I’m known for making my couples feel comfortable, confident, and truly seen. I value creating an honest and trusting relationship with every client, so when it’s time to be in front of the camera, they can actually relax and enjoy the moment instead of feeling stiff or uncomfortable.
What I’m most proud of is the experience I create for my couples. For me, it’s never just about pretty photos it’s about preserving how the day felt and bringing a sense of calm to the chaos during such a big season of life. I show up to each wedding day with the heart of someone who genuinely cares, and my goal is always to make people feel safe, celebrated, and deeply known.
What sets me apart is my intuition and ability to read people and situations. I’m constantly paying attention to body language if a prompt doesn’t feel right for a couple, I shift in the moment. No two couples are the same, and I believe their experience should reflect that. I tune into what they need and guide them in a way that feels natural to them. I also look for the in-between moments, the way your partner looks at you when you’re not paying attention, or the quiet breath your parent takes before walking you down the aisle. Those are the moments I live to capture, because they’re the ones that mean the most.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Honeybook
Pixieset
Passion to Profit
The Bible
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.madisonmichellephotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madison.michelle.photography
