Metro-East Wedding Photographer
Timeless artwork. Milestones, not minutes. Calm leadership all day.
Does this sound familiar?
Marie had been dreaming of her Southern Illinois wedding day since she was a little girl. But as the date drew closer, Marie found herself in the throes of panic. She had everything for the big day planned out down to the last details, yet she still felt like something was missing.
The thing that was really bugging Marie was finding a wedding photographer. She wanted someone who could capture the feeling and joy of the day in a way that would look beautiful in photos for years to come; something her grandkids could one day enjoy. It seemed like everyone she asked had a horror story about wedding photography gone wrong, leaving her feeling unsure of who to trust.
Marie was also filled with anxiety over trying to coordinate all the different elements of the wedding on the big day. She wanted to feel free to relax and have fun on her special day, and not have to worry about details going awry.
One night, while browsing the internet, Marie stumbled upon MDKauffmann Photography. She was mesmerized by the photos, particularly of the weddings. They were beautiful, timeless, and looked like they captured the joy of the day perfectly. They were exactly what she was looking for!
Marie contacted MDKauffman Photography, and was immediately put at ease. Matthew was kind, organized, and professional, and he was well-versed in capturing the energy of the day. He provided Marie with a detailed timeline for the day, helping her organize every aspect of the wedding.
On the day of the wedding, Matthew was so more than Marie could have asked for. He moved seamlessly between guests and locations, capturing beautiful moments with ease. He was organized and took the stress off so everyone could enjoy the day. He had an infectious, exuberant energy throughout the day that couldn't be ignored. Most importantly, the photos he delivered after the wedding were stunning, and Marie was filled with joy and pride looking at them.
At the end of the day, Marie couldn't have been more pleased with MDKauffmann Photography. He provided her with peace of mind and beautiful photos, and she couldn't wait to share her experience with her friends.
When I say “I gotchu” - I mean it. Leave everything to me!
If you’re planning a wedding in the Metro-East—Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, O’Fallon, Highland, and the surrounding Southern Illinois area—you don’t just need “coverage.” You need a photographer who can keep the day fun, keep it moving, and create timeless artwork you’ll still be proud of decades from now.
I’m Matthew D. Kauffmann. After 20+ years photographing weddings, I take on a limited number each year so every couple gets a calm, guided experience from planning through final artwork.
I am there for every detail, capturing the smallest moments that you'll cherish forever. You deserve an experienced photographer who will take time to get to know you and your story.
You shouldn’t have to wait forever to see the photographs of your day.
Metro-East weddings have their own rhythm
Whether you’re getting married at a venue, a church, or a family property, the best weddings I photograph have one thing in common: they’re built around people and moments—not a schedule that feels like a race.
That’s why my approach is milestone-first. We plan around what matters, protect the timeline, and make space for real moments.
My approach: milestones, not minutes
Wedding days have a natural rhythm: getting ready, ceremony, portraits, reception, and the in-between moments that make it yours.
I prioritize milestones over minutes, so we can focus on the story instead of the clock.
How the commissioned experience works
It starts with planning. We’ll talk through your venue, your priorities, and the kind of finished collection you want to live with.
From there, you begin with your wedding commission, then make a few clear yes/no choices based on what matters most:
Album
Wall art
Second photographer
Additional sessions
FlashPhotos (same-day sharing)
What it feels like to work together
You’ll get direction when you need it, space when you don’t, and coaching that helps you look like yourselves—relaxed, confident, and connected.
I’m not here to turn your wedding into a photo shoot. I’m here to make sure you enjoy your day and walk away with artwork that lasts.
Fast delivery (including FlashPhotos)
One of the biggest worries couples have is the delay between the wedding day and seeing their photographs. I’m known for fast turnaround—and if you want to share highlights immediately, ask about FlashPhotos: a small curated set delivered during your event so you can post, text, and celebrate without living on your phone.
If you want timeless artwork, a smooth experience, and a photographer who can keep things fun while running the day with calm control, let’s talk.
I am ready to be your Southern Illinois wedding photographer.
Just here for free stuff?
That’s cool too. I promised something for nothing and it’s what I’ll deliver. Drop your email below and I’ll have it on the way :)
Absolutely no obligation.