storytelling, I help clients move beyond the pressure of being in front of a camera and instead focus on what matters most: the people they love and the memories they are creating together.
The result is more than a gallery of photographs. It is a collection of meaningful memories that allow you to revisit not only how a moment looked, but how it felt.
I believe photography is about more than creating beautiful images. It is about preserving the people, emotions, and moments that make your story uniquely yours.
My goal is to create a space where you can feel comfortable enough to be fully present, allowing genuine connection and authentic moments to unfold naturally. Through a blend of therapeutic insight and intentional
I believe photography is about more than creating beautiful images. It is about preserving the people, emotions, and moments that make your story uniquely yours.
My goal is to create a space where you can feel comfortable enough to be fully present, allowing genuine connection and authentic moments to unfold naturally. Through a blend of therapeutic insight and intentional storytelling, I help clients move beyond the pressure of being in front of a camera and instead focus on what matters most: the people they love and the memories they are creating together.
The result is more than a gallery of photographs. It is a collection of meaningful memories that allow you to revisit not only how a moment looked, but how it felt.
Photography has been a part of my life since high school, when I first picked up a camera and fell in love with capturing moments too special to forget. Today, I am based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, documenting weddings, elopements, couples, and families with a storytelling approach rooted in authenticity, connection, and emotion. My goal is to create images that feel just as meaningful years from now as they do today.
When I'm not behind the camera, I work as a mental health therapist. My background in social work has shaped the way I approach photography, allowing me to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where people feel comfortable, seen, and free to be themselves. I love the balance of these two careers, as both are centered around human connection and the stories that make us who we are.
Life at home is full with my fiancé and our three cats. I am inspired by travel, the outdoors, good books, trying new foods, and everyday adventures. That same curiosity and appreciation for life's in-between moments is something I bring into every session, helping create photographs that feel genuine, heartfelt, and true to your story.
"Lara just did an incredible job and we are so happy with them. It was a freezing day and we forgot a dog leash and you never would have known the behind the scenes chaos. We loved her and we wish she was around when we got married!"
"Lara was incredibly sweet to work with. We are usually super uncomfortable in front of the camera but she made it feel easy by giving us direction. We are in love with our wedding photos!"
"Lara always has such a great attitude. She is so positive and sweet, I adore her as a person. I also adore her as a photographer. She also has a real talent for photography and editing. Every time she exceeds my expectations. It is evident she puts a lot of time and energy into what she does!”
"Lara is AMAZING! Not only is she an amazing photographer, but she truly felt like a friend throughout the day. She kept us on time and executed my visions perfectly. I am so grateful we chose her!”
Yes! I love traveling and am available for destination weddings, elopements, and sessions. If you're planning a celebration outside of Michigan, I'd love to hear more about your vision and create a custom package for your day. For select bucket list destinations, special pricing may be available.
Weddings are delivered within six to eight weeks, while your complimentary engagement sessions are delivered within two to four weeks. All weddings and engagement sessions include a curated selection of preview images within 72 hours so you can relive your memories while your full gallery is being carefully curated.
Yes! Every gallery includes access to a professional online print store where you can order quality prints directly to your door.
Retainers are non-refundable. If you need to reschedule, I am happy to apply your retainer to a new date, pending availability, as long as notice is given in advance. In the event of an emergency or severe weather, we will work together to find the best possible solution.
While every wedding is unique, you can typically expect around 50 to 75 professionally edited images per hour of coverage. I never limit the moments that matter and always deliver every image that helps tell your story.
Yes! Lara E Photography LLC is insured and can provide documentation upon request.
Absolutely! I have several talented videographers and wedding vendors that I love working alongside. Reach out and I'd be happy to share my recommendations.
Yes! I am happy to help plan your engagement session, including location recommendations, outfit guidance, and any other details you may need. Engagement sessions are included with all wedding packages.
Wedding collections include 50 miles of round trip travel, and complimentary engagement sessions include 30 miles of round trip travel from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Additional travel is billed at $0.75 per mile. If you need additional coverage, extra hours can be added for $300 per hour. Destination weddings and elopements are custom quoted and not subject to standard travel fees.
I recommend reaching out as soon as you've chosen your wedding date and venue to reserve your date. If you're planning on a shorter timeline or an intimate wedding or elopement, don't hesitate to reach out! I always encourage couples to inquire, as I may still have your date available.
Yes! I understand that photography is an investment, and I am happy to offer payment plans upon request.
Fill out my inquiry form and tell me a little about yourself and your partner, your wedding vision, and what you're looking for. I'll be in touch to answer your questions and make sure we're a great fit. If you'd like, we can also meet for coffee, chat over the phone, or connect via FaceTime before booking.
Once you're ready to move forward, we'll choose your collection, sign your contract, and pay the retainer to officially reserve your wedding date.
We'll work together to plan the details of your wedding day. From timeline planning and engagement session preparation to vendor recommendations and final details, I'll be here to support you every step of the way.
This is where the magic happens. You can focus on celebrating while I document every meaningful moment with intention. I'll provide gentle guidance when needed while creating space for genuine connection, authentic emotion, and the moments that make your day uniquely yours.
Within 72 hours, you'll receive a curated selection of preview images to relive your wedding day. Your full gallery will then be carefully edited and delivered through an online gallery where you can download, share, and order quality prints directly through the professional online print store.