About Us
Our Story
You might say our duo started a long time ago 😉 Yes, being identical twins has meant we have ‘worked’ alongside one another our whole lives but the path to photography has been different for both of us. While we are both creative in nature, Mary’s love of photography started early and led her to start a wedding and portrait photography business which she did for well over a decade. Beth was always her champion and worked for the business in many different roles, but it didn’t take long for Beth to catch the photography bug herself. So, after years of partnering we decided to officially go into business together and start Ellie Mae Collective. Ellie Mae is named in honor of our daughters!
Our philosophy is that while this life is full of ups and downs, God has woven beauty into all of it. Beauty worth celebrating. Stories worth telling. While a photograph can’t allow you to hold onto the moments, we believe it can help you treasure them with a lasting keepsake. We consider it a joy to tell your stories through our lenses. Read more below about the twins behind the lens!
About Mary
Hi! It’s always fun to know a little bit about the person behind the lens so here is a little bit about me.
I am first and foremost a follower of Jesus Christ and he has forever changed my life. My relationship with Him shapes all areas of my life — photography included. I see beauty in all things because I know the One who is working in all things.
I am married to a handsome blonde and we have four wonderful children. Having photographed weddings for years, I fell in love with family photography once I became a mom myself. Motherhood has changed me more ways than I can ever express and I’ll be forever grateful I get to play that role.
I am a story teller to the core and the way I see it, everyone has a story worth telling. As a sentimental person, I fell in love with photography as a teenager because of the way it captures those very stories. I consider it an unbelievable privilege to take part in some of the most special chapters in people’s lives. I get giddy at ‘yummy light’, I take way too many photos and I’m not too cool to make silly noises to get your kids laughing. If that resonates, let’s chat!
About Beth
Hi! We know finding the right photographer for your family can be tricky so we want you to know the twins behind the lens!
Most importantly, I am a follower of Jesus Christ. I’ve been saved by grace and my love for Jesus influences all I do. I truly believe that everyone has God-given dignity and value and worth. One of the reasons that I love photography is because I believe it serves as a tool to honor this reality.
I’ve been married to my favorite person, David, for the last 13 years. We have been blessed with four wonderful kids who, against my will, seem to be growing up much too quickly. Life with them is full and crazy and beautiful!
I love to be outdoors, creating memories with people I love. If I had my say, every day would include some outdoor adventure either hiking or fishing or soaking up the sun on a shore somewhere.
I have been in the photography business for over 12 years now and love being able to tell your unique story through my lens. I believe each of our stories matter and deserve to not only be captured but to be celebrated! It would be my joy to capture moments and memories for your family!
Let’s work together
We’d love to meet you