shae + ryan

BEHIND THE LENS

ABOUT carmen

I'm Carmen Santorelli, a fine art photographer with a heart full of romance and a dash of humor. Born and raised in the picturesque landscapes of Europe, I spent a decade working in publishing in the vibrant energy of NYC.
I now live amidst the sun-kissed horizons of Southern California. But my story isn't just about where I've been; it's about the magical journey of storytelling through my lens.

From a young age, tucked away in a darkroom built in a walk-in closet, I was mesmerized by the magic of film photography. The enchanting process of bringing images to life set the stage for a lifelong love affair with capturing precious moments. My devotion to the art deepened with formal training at The International Center of Photography in NYC, where the gorgeous and unstoppable energy of a wedding day captured my heart. I knew then that I had found my calling.

With over a decade of experience under my belt, I've had the privilege of capturing the most exquisite weddings and events across the globe. My work, a blend of editorial finesse and heartfelt storytelling, has found a home in the pages of the world's most prestigious publications. From the elegant nuances of VOGUE to the romantic spreads of Martha Stewart Weddings, my camera has told stories of love in every corner of the planet.

But what truly sets me apart is not just my love for the nostalgic beauty of Fuji film stock or my ability to speak the romantic languages of love (Romanian, Italian, and French to be precise). It's my unique perspective – a fusion of my background in publishing and journalism, my love for travel, style, and the joy of family with my daughter Zoya and our furry friend Max. My eye sees your wedding day not just as an event but as a living, breathing story, each moment a frame in an epic film of romance and palpable joy.