CHARLOTTE WEDDING & PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

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Wedding at St Peter Catholic Church on Film
Wedding Michael Parks Wedding Michael Parks

Wedding at St Peter Catholic Church on Film

Uptown Charlotte Wedding at St. Peter on film. As a Catholic, each Catholic wedding I photograph is really special to me. This wedding at St. Peter Catholic Church and the following reception at The Ruth by Beau Monde in Uptown Charlotte was a joy to capture. That sense of ease didn’t happen by accident - the day was masterfully planned by Amy Mich of The White Rose Co. Weddings & Events, whose attention to detail and calm presence made all the difference.

The morning began high above Uptown, with the bride getting ready at the JW Marriott, near the church. The suite’s clean lines, natural window light, and sweeping skyline views created a space that lent itself beautifully to photography—refined without feeling stiff, bright without being harsh. The energy in the suites was relaxed and anticipatory, the kind of atmosphere that lets genuine moments rise to the surface without being forced.

The day transitioned to St. Peter, one of Charlotte’s most iconic churches. Its timeless architecture and history created the sacred setting as the couple exchanged vows. There’s a quiet gravity to ceremonies in old church where generations of weddings have taken place that adds depth to the experience. As a wedding photographer, here it’s less about staging and more understanding the Mass and capturing those moments that carry the story photographically.

A memorable element of the day was how everyone moved between locations. Instead of typical transportation, the wedding party was shuttled through Uptown on a classic red street trolley. It brought a sense of fun and nostalgia to the day—something turned simple transitions into experiences of their own.

The celebration continued at The Ruth by Beau Monde, where the atmosphere shifted into an inviting, celebratory event. With its thoughtfully curated outdoor garden spaces, modern wrap-around bar, and ballroom, The Ruth was the perfect backdrop for toasts, laughter, and a packed dance floor. The flow from cocktail hour to reception felt effortless, allowing guests to stay fully present rather than wondering what came next.

Elizabeth, Brian, and I share a love of film photography, and it was really a pleasure to lean into shooting film for their wedding. Throughout the day, I photographed with Kodak Portra 400—my go-to film for its soft tones, natural color, and timeless quality. Film has a way of slowing things down, encouraging intention with every frame. Alongside film, I used digital cameras when appropriate, later editing those images to align with the look and feel of the film. The result is a cohesive gallery that blends the best of both mediums—honest, enduring, and true to the day as it unfolded.

If you’re planning a wedding at St. Peter or another Catholic Church and want images that reflect the Tradition and sacrament of marriage, I’d love to connect. It would be honored to create images for your wedding.

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A Wedding to Remember at Belk Chapel
Wedding Michael Parks Wedding Michael Parks

A Wedding to Remember at Belk Chapel

A tailored wedding photography experience at Belk Chapel on Queens University campus in the Myers Park neighborhood of Charlotte, NC. With the best in professional photography equipment, this couple’s wedding was captured in digital and film. 

After the ceremony, we traveled to The Ruth by Beau Monde in Uptown Charlotte for the reception. With skyline views in its open courtyard and a light-filled, airy indoor space, guests enjoyed a catered dinner, dancing, and a custom-made bar that really set this venue apart.

As one of the few Charlotte wedding photographers accredited by Professional Photographers of America as a Certified Professional Photographer, Michael Parks strives to highlight the unique connection between each of his brides and grooms.

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