ISPWP Member Spotlight - Nelli Chernyshova (Nelly Photography)

1. How did you get your start and why did you chose wedding photography as a career?

I began my professional photography career in Ukraine, photographing weddings and community events. After moving to the United States, I focused on wedding photography in Florida, capturing authentic emotions and meaningful moments. I chose wedding photography because I love telling stories through images and creating timeless memories that couples can cherish forever. Photography is not just my career - it’s my passion and my way of connecting with people through their most important moments.

2. How has your extensive experience in wedding photography helped you in difficult circumstances on a wedding day?

My extensive experience in wedding photography has taught me to stay calm and adaptable in any situation. For example, at a recent outdoor wedding in Florida, unexpected rain began just as the ceremony was about to start. Drawing on my experience, I quickly adjusted my shooting plan, found creative indoor angles, and captured the emotional moments without disrupting the couple or guests. Situations like this have strengthened my problem-solving skills and allow me to consistently deliver beautiful, authentic images, no matter what challenges arise on the wedding day.

3. What are some of your favorite local venues?

Some of my favorite local venues in Florida are Bella Cosa (https://www.bellacosaweddingvenue.com/) and Club Continental (https://clubcontinental.com/) . Bella Cosa always amazes me with its elegant charm and soft, natural light that makes every moment feel magical and timeless. Club Continental has a vibrant and unique atmosphere that encourages creativity, letting me capture the energy and joy of each celebration. Both venues inspire me to tell the story of the day in a way that is authentic, emotional, and unforgettable for the couples I photograph.

4. What's your favorite part of the wedding day to photograph?

My favorite part of the wedding day to photograph is the ceremony, when emotions are at their purest and most powerful. I love capturing those real, unscripted moments - the tears, laughter, and joyful glances between the couple and their loved ones. These are the moments that tell the true story of the day, and I strive to preserve them in a way that feels authentic, emotional, and timeless.

5. What are your top tips for brides to help them get great photos on their wedding day?

My top tips for brides are to relax, enjoy the day, and trust their photographer. The most beautiful photos come from real emotions, so focus on the moment rather than perfection. Even small, unscripted moments—laughter, smiles, and little surprises - create the most memorable and timeless images. 

6. How important is it to hire an experienced wedding photographer?

When choosing a wedding photographer, couples should look at real wedding galleries, check consistency across all work, and make sure the photographer’s style matches their vision. It’s also important to meet in person or virtually to ensure good communication and comfort, because feeling relaxed with your photographer makes a big difference on the wedding day.

7. What do you find is the biggest challenge in wedding photography?​

The biggest challenge in wedding photography is capturing authentic moments while managing unpredictable circumstances. Weddings are full of emotions, fast-paced events, and unexpected changes—like weather, lighting, or timing delays. My experience allows me to stay calm, adapt quickly, and ensure that every important moment is beautifully documented, no matter the challenges that arise.

8. Do you do "destination weddings?" If so, what are your favorite destinations?

Yes, I do destination weddings, and I absolutely love the opportunity to travel for work. Some of my favorite destinations are New York State and Washington State, where the natural landscapes create stunning backdrops for wedding photography. I also enjoy photographing weddings in Nebraska, because many of my friends live there, which gives me a wonderful chance to combine work with visiting loved ones. Traveling to these locations allows me to capture unique and memorable moments in beautiful settings, while also connecting with people and places that are meaningful to me.

9. What do you do for fun when you're not shooting weddings?

When I’m not photographing weddings, I enjoy playing tennis, as it keeps me active and energized. I’m also a big coffee lover and love discovering new cafés, where I often relax and edit wedding photos in a cozy, inspiring atmosphere.

10. How would you describe your style of photography?

I would describe my photography style as natural and heartfelt. I love capturing real emotions, spontaneous moments, and the unique personality of each couple, creating images that truly tell their story.

11. What do you offer to clients that is unique? What is your Unique Selling Proposition?

I make the entire wedding photography experience simple and stress-free, from planning before the wedding to capturing the big day and delivering the final photos. My goal is to keep everything easy, so couples can relax and enjoy every moment.

12. Do you offer albums? If so, describe the albums you offer and why you think it's important to provide albums.

Yes, I offer wedding albums. I think albums are important because they allow couples to hold and relive their memories in a tangible way. There’s something special about being able to touch a printed version of your photos and flip through the moments from your wedding day, making it a lasting keepsake for years to come.

13. What would you say was the biggest reason for your success?

The biggest reason for my success is that I truly love what I do and make it simple for my clients. I focus on capturing authentic moments without overcomplicating anything, and I treat every couple and every wedding with care and attention. I couldn’t have achieved this without God’s blessing, which guides and inspires me in my work every day.

14. What future plans do you have for your business for the next year?

In the next year, I plan to grow my wedding photography business and take on more destination weddings. I also want to keep improving my skills, mentor new photographers, and continue volunteering, creating meaningful and lasting images for couples.

15. What is the biggest challenge facing wedding photographers today?

One of the biggest challenges wedding photographers face today is capturing authentic moments in a fast-paced and sometimes unpredictable environment. Moving to a new country added another layer of learning, as I adapted to a different culture, venues, and client expectations. Staying calm, adaptable, and creative helps me ensure every important moment is beautifully documented, no matter the challenges.