MY STORY

m carter photography, marcus carter, wedding photographer washington dc, dc elopement photographer, documentary style wedding photography dc, documentary style wedding photography maryland, dc area wedding photographers, best dc wedding photographers

Hey there, folks!


So, I've been known to dabble in this little thing called photography, or as some like to eloquently put it, playing around with a "time-freezing device" also known as a camera. But don't worry, I promise I actually know how to use one!


My journey into the world of photography began back in my college days when I picked up my first camera, a Nikon D5500. It wasn't until a year later, with a little nudge from friends, that I decided to take my passion for photography beyond just a hobby. And let me tell you, that decision came with quite the investment - new camera, lenses, laptop, and a side of debt to go with it. But hey, sometimes you just have to dive in headfirst, right? I spent countless nights diving into the world of photography, learning everything from camera functions to editing, marketing, and shooting techniques. I basically graduated from the YouTube Academy of Photography (if that were an actual thing). Fast forward to today, and I'm still fueled by that same passion for capturing amazing moments.

Calling all soon-to-be newlyweds, growing families, and those who want your most memorable moments preserved. If you're in the market for a self-taught, hard-working, humble, and hopefully funny (but hey, humor's subjective, right?) photographer, then look no further!

MY CORE VALUES

Photography isn't just about capturing a perfect shot; it's about capturing the essence of individuals and making them feel fantastic by every push of the button. Whether it's creating a set of new dating app profile pictures or freezing a moment of a family's expansion, to me photography is about creating a lasting feel-good experience. Throughout my journey, I've discovered that these fundamental principles has not only helped me deliver exceptional images, but also create timeless treasures that will be cherished forever.

COMMUNICATION

AUTHENTICITY

COMFORT

WHAT I WANT MY CAMERA TO SEE

I strive to artistically merge the techniques of photojournalism with the enduring charm of conventional photography, thus crafting a timeless assortment that impeccably captures your unique essence and cultivates a cherished memento for years to come. My overarching goal is to present you with a stunning compilation that not only poignantly revives your treasured memories, but also evolves into a cherished heirloom for years to come. Through immortalizing the fleeting emotions and instances of your extraordinary day, I endeavor to mirror the authentic essence of your romantic narrative in a manner that will endure through the ages.

HOW I CREATE THE FINAL PRODUCT

My approach to editing can be characterized as "environment-specific." This means that I meticulously adjust the warmth or coolness of the overall look to seamlessly complement your images, ensuring a cohesive visual experience. Additionally, I have a profound appreciation for black and white images, as they skillfully direct attention to the raw emotions captured in a moment, enriching the narrative within the photograph with depth and nuance. By understanding the unique qualities of each environment, I aim to refine and enhance the visual impact of every image, ensuring that the emotions and moments captured are brought to life in an authentic and compelling manner.


FUN FACTS ABOUT ME

Family First: I recently became the proud father of Charly Rose Carter! She was born on 06/25/23, and she's already stolen my heart.

From Pixels to Projects: When I'm not behind the camera, you'll find me managing IT projects. It's a different kind of creativity, but I love the balance it brings to my life.

Self-Taught and Proud: Believe it or not, I'm 100% self-taught, with a little help from the esteemed "YouTube Academy." It just goes to show you what you can learn with a reliable internet connection and a whole lot of determination.

Strike! (Almost): I discovered my love for bowling at a young age and rolled my highest game (285) when I was just 12. It's a great way to unwind and show off a bit of skill!

Epicurean Adventures: I'm always up for trying new foods and crafting innovative cocktails. It's the perfect blend of exploration and creativity, don't you think?

Bonjour to a Second Photographer: My amazing wife hails from Normandy, France. She not only keeps me grounded but might just hop in as your second photographer. Bonus points for a touch of French elegance, right?

From Gaming to Capturing: Back in high school, I dreamt of becoming a professional Call of Duty player. Little did I know that another form of artistry would eventually steal my heart.

The Irony of Art: Despite what you might expect, art was actually my least favorite subject in school. Funny how life works out, isn't it?
So there you have it! I'm more than just a photographer—I'm a passionate, multifaceted individual with a few surprises up my sleeve.

Sam & Josh

“We had such an amazing experience! Me and my (then fiancé now husband) we’re very nervous as we never had professional photos before. He made it easy and we ended up having a blast working with him! Our sessions (engagement and wedding) were like a dream!!! Thank you so much, you are an incredibly kind and talented individual.”

Roxana & David

“Marcus was an absolute pleasure to work with! He is very detailed oriented and helped me formulate a timeline for day of our wedding as I didn’t know where to start! He made me feel comfortable from our first call and I knew right away I wanted to work with him. Our pictures are FLAWLESS! & I would hire him again in a heartbeat.”

Ryan & Jessica

“One of the best people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. My wedding would not have been nearly as memorable without him!”