MARLY V. ARTURO-BAGNANO

Charleston Wedding & Elopement Photographer- Film-inspired imagery with heart. Feeling over perfection.

Editorial maternity portrait of Marly Viviana in studio — Charleston portrait photographer

Calm, Fun, and Down to Earth.

Here’s what that actually means for you:

You won’t feel stiff or overly posed.
You won’t be left wondering what to do with your hands.
You won’t feel rushed or like you’re performing.

I’ll laugh with you.
I’ll fix your veil.
I’ll give you space when you need a breath.

My couples often tell me they felt like they had a friend by their side, one who just happens to be deeply skilled with a camera.

That balance matters.

Authority in Artistry.

I’ve spent years refining my eye for light, composition, and emotion. My approach is intentional, rooted in film-inspired tones, layered storytelling, and images that feel timeless rather than trendy.

I don’t chase perfection.

I chase connection.

Because the way your partner looks at you mid-ceremony?
That’s more powerful than any perfectly styled flat lay.

Your gallery will feel like your day, honest, artful, and deeply human.

Black and white family portrait detail — personal storytelling photography by Marly Viviana
Black and white child portrait detail — documentary family photography

The “Good Ol’ Days”

My family is my muse.

Every day, my kids remind me that this season- messy, loud, imperfect- is the good old days. We’re living them right now.

That perspective shapes everything I do.

It’s why I care so much about documenting the in-between.
It’s why I don’t rush moments.
It’s why I believe photos aren’t for social media, they’re for your future self.

One day, you’ll look back and realize this was it.
The beginning. The foundation. The start of your legacy.

And I want you to have images that take you right back there.

You’re not just planning a wedding.
You’re holding a once-in-a-lifetime day in your hands.

And that deserves someone who understands both the weight and the beauty of it.

I’m Marly, a Charleston-based wedding and elopement photographer specializing in film-inspired, emotion-driven storytelling. I blend gentle direction, intuitive prompting, and documentary awareness to create imagery that feels alive, not staged.

But more than that?
I understand what this day means.

Empathy First, always.

Weddings are layered.

Excitement and nerves.
Joy and nostalgia.
Chaos and tenderness, sometimes all in the same hour.

My job isn’t just to take beautiful photos.
It’s to hold space for all of it.

I approach your day with calm energy and steady presence. When timelines shift or emotions run high, I don’t panic. I guide gently. I anticipate quietly. I move with intention.

You get to stay present.
I’ll take care of the rest.

Expressive black and white portrait of a child — lifestyle family photography
Natural black and white child portrait — fine art family photography
Casual family beach photo taken on a cell phone — real life storytelling by Marly Viviana

If This Resonates

If you’re planning a Charleston wedding or elopement and want photography that feels calm, intentional, and deeply emotional, I would be honored to tell your story.

Let’s create something that lasts.

Marly