About Maria Orlova — Wedding & Engagement Photographer

Maria Orlova is a Portland-based wedding photographer with a love for natural light and everything transient that makes a photograph impossible to repeat.

“Photography has been part of my life since I was eight. I wanted to remember the first snow, the oat fields just before harvest, my kitten’s whiskers, my mom’s hands busy with a craft I knew she’d soon master and move on from, or the way the sun caught my best friend’s hair before she cut it short. I photographed these things because I knew I wouldn’t experience them quite the same way again.

I find weddings extraordinary because, for one very special, wonderfully full day, I’m invited into people’s lives. I get to witness things no one else notices and reveal them through photographs. My favorites are the ones that bring you back so vividly you can almost remember the sounds, the smells, and exactly how you felt.

My approach is warm, easygoing, and as involved as you’d like me to be. I’ll guide you throughout the day whenever I sense you need a little direction, even for a second, and happily blend in when you don’t.

Maria Orlova Photography: Crafting Timeless Narratives for Your Wedding Day

Outside of work, my animals (Noel, my dog, and eight chickens named Rosemary, Cocoa, Oreo, Rooibos, Lemon, Ginger, Chai, and Honey) and my garden mean the world to me.

A few things especially close to my heart: the long-awaited Portland fall, our bridges and old buildings, and knowing the good bakeries in every neighborhood (I will absolutely stand in a long line for a seasonal special). Hearing the stories behind small businesses. Exchanging seeds and handmade ceramics with neighbors. The first frost. Really good coffee.

I find spiritual fulfillment in the stewardship of my little piece of land: restoring native plants, creating habitat for pollinators and making sure birds have food, water, and shelter throughout the year. Seeing frogs and beneficial insects return to my garden after years of care has been one of my greatest joys.

Eight years ago, I chose Portland as my home for it’s nature. I keep choosing it for the people I meet here.”

If my work draws you in - it’s not random. Get in touch, we should chat!

A smiling woman with curly red hair, wearing a teal jacket and blue jeans, sitting on a rock outdoors in a green forested area. She has a small brown and white baby chick perched on her hand, and there are other chicks at her feet and nearby.
A woman with red hair in a denim shirt holding a small chicken on her arm, surrounded by chickens and a dog outdoors.

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Your Questions, Answered

  • Will our images be shared publicly?
    I may share a small, carefully chosen selection of images. You can opt out of your images being shared, no questions asked..

    Can we request privacy?
    Of course. Many couples value discretion, and I’m happy to honor full or partial privacy requests. This can be discussed at any point and is always respected.

    Who owns the images?
    You receive full personal usage rights to your images, so you’re free to print and share them as you wish. I retain the copyright, which allows me to present my work unless privacy has been requested.

  • How do we begin?
    Submit an inquiry and we’ll connect to discuss your vision. A signed contract and 50% retainer secure your date, with continued support throughout planning.

    When should we inquire?
    Most couples reach out 6–15 months in advance, with limited last-minute availability.

    What happens after the wedding?
    Sneak peeks arrive within 24 hours, and your full gallery is delivered in 4–6 weeks. The remaining balance is due the day after the wedding.

  • What is your pricing?
    For an 8-hour wedding day coverage investment is around $4,000. For intimate or shorter celebrations, many couples invest $2,500–$3,500.

    Coverage is fully customizable and may include additional hours, a second photographer, film photography, engagement sessions, albums and multi-day or destination events.

    My pricing is consistent year-round and reflects the level of care behind my work. I value transparency so you always know what to expect.

  • How would you describe your style?
    Natural, observant, and editorial—focused on real moments, refined details, subtle gestures, and emotional connection.

    How do you work on a wedding day?
    I move calmly and intuitively, offering gentle guidance when helpful and allowing the day to unfold naturally.

    Do you pose couples?
    Yes where required: in a minimal and thoughtful way that feels relaxed and genuine.

  • or an 8-hour celebration, you can expect ~400 thoughtfully selected and edited images, delivered in a single curated gallery that tells the complete story of your day.

    When will we receive our photos?
    Your full gallery will be delivered within 4–6 weeks, depending on coverage. A small preview of sneak peeks is shared within 24 hours of your wedding.

    How are images delivered?
    Images are delivered via a private online gallery for easy viewing, downloading, and sharing.

  • Coverage can be thoughtfully expanded to include:

    • Additional coverage hours

    • Second photographer

    • Film photography

    • Engagement session

    • Fine art prints

    • Multi-day or destination coverage