Our Approach

We document wedding weekends with intention and ease—creating effortless portraits while allowing each celebration to unfold naturally. With a calm, observant presence, we focus on genuine connection and the in-between moments that define wedding celebrations, resulting in imagery that feels timeless, refined, and enduring.

Armour House Wedding in Lake Forest - Ceremony Recessional
The Armour House Wedding in Lake Forest - Reception Details

What to Expect

An Experience Designed Around You


A Personalized Beginning

Every couple’s story is unique. We begin by getting to know you—your vision, priorities, and the moments that matter most. Candace takes the time to understand what makes your celebration meaningful, offering guidance and support from the very beginning.


Storytelling With Purpose

With a clear understanding of your vision, Candace approaches your wedding day with intention, creativity, and a thoughtful eye for connection. From the emotions shared between loved ones to the carefully chosen details, every moment is documented with care and authenticity.


A Seamless Wedding Experience

Working alongside you and your planning team, Candace helps create a timeline that allows your day to unfold naturally. With a calm and confident presence, she captures refined portraits, genuine interactions, and the unforgettable moments that make your celebration uniquely yours.


A Meaningful Delivery

After your wedding, Candace carefully curates and refines your images with the same attention brought to every part of your experience. Within 6–8 weeks, you’ll receive a beautifully edited collection that reflects the emotion, atmosphere, and story of your day—preserving the memories you’ll cherish for years to come.

The Armour House Wedding in Lake Forest - Outfit Change Bride and Groom Staircase Portraits

Let’s create your story.

Explore the wedding experiences designed to capture your day with intention, artistry, and care.

Offerings

Wedding Photography

Elegant bride in beaded white gown with long wavy black hair and pearl earrings. - University Club of Chicago Wedding

Wedding Photography

Each celebration is thoughtfully curated around your vision and the moments that matter most. Every collection includes two photographers, personalized planning and guidance, and a curated gallery of edited images—preserving your story with intention.

Starting at $6,000

Engagements

Bride and groom share first kiss surrounded by bridesmaids in burgundy gowns.  - University Club of Chicago Wedding

Engagements

Create fun & memorable moments with your future spouse during a pre-wedding portrait session with Candace.

Use these images for your save-the-date cards, display them in your home, on your wedding website and throughout your ceremony and reception space.

Book your session with Candace

Rehearsal Dinner

Bride and groom kissing, showcasing a pink diamond ring and luxury watch.  - University Club of Chicago Wedding

Rehearsal Dinner

Before the big day, gather with your wedding party, family, and close friends for an intimate evening of celebration. We'll document the heartfelt moments and candid connections that begin your wedding weekend.

Enhance your experience
String quartet performing beneath ornate stained glass windows. - University Club of Chicago Wedding Ceremony
Elegant wedding ceremony venue with ornate wood-paneled walls, chandelier, stone fireplace. - University Club of Chicago Wedding Ceremony
Elegant wedding reception table with tall floral centerpieces, candles. - University Club of Chicago Wedding Reception

Additional Services

Enhance Your Experience

Bridal Gown Fitting (up to 2 hours)

Bridal or Wedding Shower (up to 2 hours)

Welcome Party (up to 2 hours)

Additional Wedding Day Coverage

Additional Professional Photographer

Farewell Brunch (up to 2 hours)

Priority Full Gallery Delivery (2 weeks vs. 2 months)


HEIRLOOM ALBUMS

Refined flush-mount albums, with linen, leather, and suede cover options printed on professional photographic luster paper known for its sharp details, rich colors and contrast.

40-Page Lay Flat Album 10x10"

40-Page Lay Flat Album 12X12"


Destination Weddings

Your destination wedding is more than a single day—it's an unforgettable experience shared with the people you love most. Whether you're saying "I do" overlooking the sea, celebrating in a timeless French château, or gathering at a private mountain estate, your celebration deserves photography that is as intentional and unforgettable as the destination itself.


Because every destination wedding is different, we create custom proposals designed around your vision, travel plans, guest experience, and coverage needs. From welcome parties and rehearsal dinners to the wedding day and farewell brunch, we'll create a collection that perfectly fits your celebration.



Inquire


Elegant outdoor wedding reception with long tables, floral centerpieces, and string lights at a French chateau. - Chateau de Lartigolle

Chapters & Milestone Sessions

Chapters & Milestone Sessions celebrate the moments that deserve to be remembered. Thoughtfully designed to capture life’s most meaningful seasons, each session blends timeless imagery with authentic connection to create heirloom photographs that preserve your story for generations.


Starting at $1,000


LEarn More

A cheerful toddler boy walks on green grass in an autumn park, holding fallen leaves while wearing a black jacket and jeans.
testimonials
Testimonial The University Club of Chicago Wedding | Candace Sims Chicago Luxury Editorial Wedding Photographer

Aisha & Patrick


The University Club of Chicago Wedding


Candace is incredible! She is thoughtful, flexible, organized, communicative and has a way with making us feel totally comfortable in front of the camera.


If you're wondering whether you should book her. DO IT! I am a person who usually hates photos of myself and I LOVED every single photo that Candace captured of my wedding. She has an elegant, documentary style that is unlike others I have seen. She is worth the investment 100 times over. I will definitely book Candace for all future life moments as well!

Two people share a sweet moment together in a restaurant setting with soft pendant lighting and greenery.

Devon &  David


Morgan's on Fulton Chicago Wedding


We had a wonderful experience working with Candace. Starting with the engagement shoot, we appreciated her warmth, creativity, and guidance. She offered recommendations while also incorporating our ideas and values. She takes her work seriously finding the perfect light and backdrop for our photos. During the wedding weekend, she was timely, professional, and kind. We were genuinely happy to see her again. She provided a calm amidst the wedding weekend chaos. The photos are gorgeous!

Testimonial - The Waldorf Astoria Chicago Wedding | Candace Sims Chicago Luxury Editorial Wedding Photographer

Yande & Scott


The Waldorf Astoria Chicago Wedding


When my husband and I started wedding planning, one of the most important elements of our day was photography. We wanted images that would take us back to our special day.


From the moment I saw Candace's work, we had to hire her! Her photos were crisp, timeless, not overly-edited, and soft. Candace captured absolute gems! From the detail shots to capturing our friends and family, every image told a story. I would recommend Candace to any bride wanting a timeless wedding photography look.

FAQ

How do we book you as our wedding photographer?

We require a 50% retainer payment & signed contract upon booking. Your reminder balance will be due 30 days before your wedding date.

How long does it take to get our wedding photos delivered?

You can expect your engagement photos within 4 weeks, wedding photography gallery within 6-8 weeks following your wedding event (this may vary during peak season).

How long do we have to book ahead?

Some dates and months are more popular than others, so it's best to book as far ahead as you can to avoid disappointment.

What equipment do you use & do you have insurance?

I use professional Nikon Z8 mirrorless cameras and lenses. I always carry both backup cameras and lenses as well as extra memory cards, flashes, batteries, etc. My gear is regularly maintained and updated all to ensure you receive stunning photographs.

Yes, I do have liability insurance and can provide a copy to your planner and venue.