whitney retter / photographer + adventurer — ***whitney retter*** / photographer + adventurer

I believe in your choice of a celebration that is true to who you are.

Hey! I’m Whitney —

I’m a houseplant lover, a chronic re-decorator and a strong believer that less is always more. I have a cat I call Sylvia, and I love to spend free time outside, traveling to new and unexplored places. I believe in love, and as a wedding photographer, I truly believe in the choice you have as a couple to celebrate in a way that is most true to who you are.

I find joy in the little things - a cup of coffee in the morning, warm weather, fresh air, good food. I love traveling to new places and connecting with new people. I believe in committing to what you love, and never settling for less. I have always had a passion for the craft of photography, and intimate weddings are easily my favorite to be a part of. I love seeking out beauty from the details that tell stories from a unique perspective, and I find fulfillment in capturing beautiful moments to gift to others as a memory that will last forever.

I’m excited to meet you - Let’s connect

I make the same promise to all my couples — throughout your wedding adventure

I will show up not only as your photographer, but also as your guide.

Elopements, weddings and photography itself may feel scary and stressful, but as your mentor I will teach you the terrain and help you find your best route forward. My job is to guide you towards comfort and confidence both in your choice of ceremony and on the day itself. By choosing you, your experience and the photos that capture it will be authentic, fun and a beautiful reflection of your love as a couple - and will help you to experience your own story in a way you haven’t seen before. You are absolutely worthy of your own unique celebration. I can’t wait to document how it comes to life!

Are you with me? Learn more

I’m drawn to people who are truly happy. Who are living their dream. Who do their own thing regardless of what everyone else is doing. / I want you to see yourself in a way that is true, but that you haven’t seen before. / The entire experience is truly a collaboration between me and my clients. / There are no rules when it comes to your wedding. / I just want to travel and photograph people. I want to inspire others to travel more. I want to inspire others to do what they love and not to settle. / My focus is to tell your story in a way that is creative and true. / I like to go on bike rides, go hiking, paddle board, do yoga, watch movies or shows, make cocktails, macrame, go thrifting, rearrange the house, read, learn something new. / Your day comes first - the photos will follow. / Coffee is a must-have no matter the day. Time to go outside and get fresh air is also a must. / I want my couples to feel happy, excited and at ease. / My hope is to empower you to realize that you can do what you want. That you are worthy and you can invest in yourself and your wedding day because it only happens once. And it may be the most important day of your life.

I’m drawn to people who are truly happy.  Who are living their dream. Who do their own thing regardless of what everyone else is doing.  / I want you to see yourself in a way that is true, but that you haven’t seen before.
  /  The entire experience is truly a collaboration between me and my clients.  /  There are no rules when it comes to your wedding.  /  I just want to travel and photograph people. I want to inspire others to travel more. I want to inspire others to do what they love and not to settle.  /  My focus is to tell your story in a way that is creative and true.  /  Your day comes first - the photos will follow.
  /  I want my couples to feel happy, excited and at ease.  /  My hope is to empower you to realize that you can do what you want.
 That you are worthy and you can invest in yourself and your wedding day because it only happens once. And it may be the most important day of your life. 

the midwest

and beyond

Whitney Retter / photographer & adventurer —

My Values

Featured

/01 Inclusivity

Inclusivity is my bottom line - All people are welcome here. No matter your gender identity or expression, race, ethnicity, size, nationality, sexual orientation, ability level, neurotype, religion, age, culture, identity or self-identification - you are welcome. Please reach out with any questions, or concerns!

/02 Outdoor Ethics

As the appreciation and use of public land grows, it is increasingly important to me to both enjoy and protect these outdoor spaces. As a Leave No Trace certified photographer, I work with my couples to explore public lands in a responsible and sustainable manner that supports longevity and accessibility to our favorite outdoor spaces. You can learn more here :)

03/ Education

My purpose is to empower my couples - not only in their choice of how they celebrate their day, but through information and education of elopements, outdoor experiences and photography in general. My own curiosity drives me as a student, and also a teacher - by sharing my own insight and education I am to empower fellow photographers that, like me, are working hard to pave their own path forward.