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Hi, I'm Kenny Nakai.

 

As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’m lucky enough to document some of the city's most beautiful love stories.

 

I hope you find inspiration here and connect with the feelings I had when I created each photo.

kenny nakai chicago photographer in tuxedo on dark backdrop

Hi, I'm Kenny Nakai.

 

As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’m lucky enough to document some of the city's most beautiful love stories.

 

Welcome to my Chicago wedding blog, where I share my latest work and the deeper stories behind the photos. I hope you find inspiration here and connect with the feelings I had when I created each one.

CHICAGO WEDDING BLOG

REAL STORIES.

REAL VENUES.

REAL MOMENTS.

chicago skyline engagement night

It's been quite the journey since I started this Chicago wedding blog in 2007. Photography is more than something to post on social media. It's a time capsule. Stopping. Freezing. Holding a moment forever.

 

There is no greater privilege than being trusted to preserve these moments for the people I love working with.

 

Wedding photography has brought me to the rooftop Cupola at The LondonHouse and on to the turf at Wrigley Field. Not just documenting people, but our ever-evolving city, one frame at a time. One love story at a time.

Chicago Greek Orthodox Baptism Photos

Chicago Greek Orthodox Baptism Photos

It was such a wonderful time for Baby Z’s Chicago Greek Orthodox Baptism photos! Family came in from out of town to witness and commemorate the moment! It is so special to see the extended family and friends come together for baby Zoe and committing to help raise her and supporting their family! Her baby baptism was held at St. George Greek Orthodox in Lincoln Park.

If you were in need of a Chicago baby baptism photographer, feel free to contact us!

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Mom and Godmother stealing a kiss with Baby Z!

chicago Greek Orthodox baptism photos kiss

Grandma’s together at the beginning of the service.

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So much is happening at the baptism, love this moment Mom had…soaking it all in…

Greek Orthodox baptism chicago pictures emotionsThough these were our first Chicago Greek Orthodox Baptism photos, the parents and clergy at St. George were wonderful at making sure I was prepared for all the special moments!

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Love all these Chicago Greek Orthodox Baptism photos with Z! It’s hard to pick a favorite…but this next one might be it!

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Love this photo of Mom, Godmother and Grandmas!

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The cutest photo from her day – we all love you Baby Z! =) She’s telling everyone…’Thank you for coming!”

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Congrats Baby Z, you are LOVED! =)

Chicago NorthShore Backyard Wedding Photos

Chicago NorthShore Backyard Wedding Photos

It was a glorious day to capture Erin + Keegan’s Chicago northshore backyard wedding photos! As Erin’s father shared, it was like having all their friends and family over for dinner…except that they had a live band and everyone got dressed up! There are so many amazing photos to share from today, but we just wanted to share these three teaser wedding photos taken just 8hrs ago!

Wedding Details:
Planner/Coordinator: Misha from Nouvelle Events
Photographers: Nakai Photography
Decor: HMR Designs
Catering: Blue Plate Catering
Band: Greenlight
Tent: HDO
Videography: Mirar Weddings
Hair + Makeup: Kate Johnson Artistry
Wedding Dress: VWidon

Found this patch of beautiful flowers in their neighbor’s backyard for this picture-

Chicago northshore backyard wedding photo

Chicago northshore backyard wedding photo bride groom

Oh how much their lives have changed so much in just one short year- so happy for these two!

Chicago northshore backyard wedding photo bride groom

And a fun photo from their COVID microwedding wedding post!

chicago covid wedding photos north shore backyard

Congrats again Erin + Keegan! It felt so good to get back to ‘normal’ with a live band and dancing! What a perfect way to celebrate your wedding with your friends and family!

with love,

your Chicago wedding photographer,

Kenny Nakai

Wedding Teaser Photos for Kristen + Hunter!

Post Covid Wedding Photos Here in Chicago!

The rain held off for Kristen + Hunter’s wedding today! Though it was forecasted to rain all day, the bride and groom were able to have their ceremony in the City Winery outdoor courtyard like they had always wanted! Right after guests entered the reception hall, the rain came pouring down!

I met Kristen + Hunter on the day they got engaged – as Hunter had me photograph his proposal! In case you missed it, be sure to see their Riverwalk Proposal Photos!

chicago proposal pictures riverwalk

There are so many wonderful photos to share from today, but we wanted to share these three teaser photos tonight!

chicago post covid wedding photos Buckingham Fountain

With COVID restrictions being lifted throughout our city, it felt great to capture their post covid wedding photos! Vaccinated folks are allowed to walk around outside without masks!

chicago post covid wedding photos riverwalk

The City Winery on Randolph St was the perfect spot to have an intimate outdoor ceremony! With all the planning that went on these past months, Kristen + Hunter were finally married!!!

chicago post covid wedding photos City Winery

Congrats again Kristen + Hunter! It was a day of rolling with the changes and you two did a wonderful job! So happy to have witnessed your marriage and we are so honored to have captured your post covid wedding photos! What a difference a couple weeks made for your wedding – you guys got to dance with all your friends and family!!! Enjoy your wedding weekend!

with love,

your Chicago wedding photographer,

Kenny Nakai

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I'm Kenny Nakai, a Chicago wedding photographer creating beautiful, timeless imagery since 2007. For couples who value artistry, authenticity, and the moments that last forever.

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