Business Details
21 Years
experience
Award-Winning Destination Wedding Photography in Charleston
Chrisman Studios is a distinguished destination wedding and portrait photography studio founded in 2005 by Ben and Erin Chrisman. With a team of six award-winning artists, we specialize in capturing lifes most meaningful moments through creative documentary photography rooted in photojournalism. Our work spans over 30 countries, earning us 250+ international awards and features in publications like People Magazine and CNN. We prioritize authenticity, blending seamlessly into events to document genuine emotions while delivering artistic portraits that transcend traditional photography.Our services include destination weddings, family portraiture, corporate headshots, and wedding videography, supported by a commitment to personalized service and technical excellence. As Emmy-winning filmmakers and Fujifilm Creators, we combine global experience with local expertise in Charleston, SC, where we operate a state-of-the-art studio equipped for both in-person and remote consultations.
Services
Destination Weddings
Family Portraits
Corporate Headshots
Wedding Videography
Photo Booth Rentals
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- 15+ years documenting weddings in 30+ countries with 250+ industry awards
- Team of six internationally recognized photographers and an Emmy-winning videographer
- Personalized approach combining documentary authenticity with artistic portraiture
- 60+ five-star Google reviews highlighting emotional storytelling and professionalism
- Full-service studio with on-location capabilities and post-production expertise
Associations and certifications
- Photographer of the Year
- Top 10 Wedding Photographers (American Photo Magazine)
- Fearless Photographers
- Junebug Weddings Best of the Best
What people say
Breathtaking compositions
Emotional authenticity
Professional reliability
Seamless international coordination
Exceptional post-production
Services
Destination Wedding Photography
We specialize in capturing weddings worldwide with a documentary approach that preserves authentic moments. Our team travels to 30+ countries annually, combining photojournalistic storytelling with artistic portraiture. Clients benefit from 15+ years of experience navigating diverse cultural traditions while maintaining creative consistency. Our coverage includes pre-ceremony preparations, ceremony documentation, and post-event celebrations, ensuring comprehensive visual narratives that reflect each couple's unique story.
Corporate Headshots
Our headshot sessions create powerful professional images that convey individuality and competence. Available in-studio or on-location, we offer customized backdrops and lighting to match brand identities. The process includes wardrobe consultation and posing guidance to ensure subjects appear confident and approachable. With experience photographing everyone from Silicon Valley executives to local entrepreneurs, we deliver images suitable for websites, LinkedIn profiles, and marketing materials that enhance professional credibility.
Family Portraiture
We document family dynamics through natural, unposed photography that captures genuine interactions. Sessions occur in clients' homes or meaningful locations, focusing on authentic connections rather than staged poses. Our approach works particularly well with children, creating images that reflect their personalities without artificial constraints. The resulting collections preserve milestones and everyday moments with emotional depth, supported by optional annual follow-up sessions to track family growth over time.
Wedding Videography
Led by Emmy-winning filmmaker Vlad Chaloupka, our videography captures weddings with cinematic quality and emotional resonance. We use multiple cameras and advanced audio equipment to document ceremonies, speeches, and candid moments. The editing process emphasizes narrative flow, transforming raw footage into cohesive stories that highlight key emotional beats. Clients receive both full-length documentaries and shorter highlights reels suitable for sharing across digital platforms.
Photo Booth Rentals
Our modern photo booths combine classic fun with contemporary technology, offering instant prints and digital copies. Customizable backdrops and props align with event themes, while user-friendly interfaces ensure smooth operation for guests of all ages. The service includes on-site attendants to manage equipment and troubleshoot technical issues, providing memorable guest experiences while capturing informal moments that complement formal wedding photography.
People
Ben Chrisman
Co-Founder & Lead Photographer
Award-winning photographer with 15+ years documenting weddings globally. Former photojournalist turned creative director, specializing in emotional storytelling through documentary-style imagery. Recognized by American Photo Magazine as Top 10 Wedding Photographer worldwide.
Erin Chrisman
Co-Founder & Creative Director
Charleston-native photographer with expertise in family portraiture and corporate headshots. Combines Southern hospitality with international experience, having photographed events across five continents. Leads studio operations and client relations while maintaining an active photography schedule.
Vlad Chaloupka
Lead Videographer
Emmy-winning filmmaker specializing in wedding cinematography. Czech-born, Prague Post alumni with diverse experience from wildlife documentaries to corporate films. Brings journalistic integrity to capturing wedding narratives with cinematic flair and technical precision.
Mauricio Arias
Photographer
Multilingual photographer fluent in Spanish and Italian, with extensive experience in destination weddings. Recognized for ability to connect with diverse clients and capture cultural traditions authentically. Regularly contributes to international photography workshops and educational programs.
Ryan Zhang
Photographer
Charleston-based photographer specializing in local weddings and portrait sessions. Combines technical expertise with deep knowledge of regional venues and lighting conditions. Known for creating comfortable environments that yield natural, expressive imagery for both individuals and groups.
Questions
Do you travel internationally for weddings?
Yes, we photograph weddings in 30+ countries annually with full logistical support included in our packages.
How long does post-processing take?
Wedding galleries deliver 4-12 weeks post-event, with headshot sessions available within days.
Can we request specific photography styles?
We blend documentary and artistic approaches but accommodate specific requests during pre-event consultations.
Are engagement sessions included?
Engagement sessions are available globally as add-ons to all wedding packages.
What equipment do you use?
We use professional-grade Fujifilm and Canon systems with backup equipment for complete redundancy.
Do you offer print services?
Yes, we provide premium printing options including albums, canvases, and fine art prints.
Videos
