marly v. arturo-bagnano
Charleston Wedding & Maternity & Family Photographer and Film
A little bit about me:
I started this dream at the “ripe age” of 40.
Some said it was too late. Others didn’t understand why documenting life mattered so much. But here I am — at your service — helping you slow down, take a breath, and see your life through my rose-colored lens.
For all its difficulty, life is incredibly beautiful. I’m honored to be the one capturing that beauty — in all its unpolished, heart-filled glory.
My muse has always been women.
I’m the middle of three sisters. Along with our mom, being surrounded by strong, intelligent, amazing women really shaped the way I see life.
Brides glowing on their wedding day. Mothers with newborns in their arms. Entrepreneurs leading with vision. Women celebrating milestones big and small.
It’s never been about choosing one genre of photography — it’s always been about capturing her. Whether you’re saying “I do” to the love of your life, saying “Welcome Home” to your third baby, or building a business you’ve poured your heart into, you’re the MVP here.
A little of my story.
My mom always had a disposable camera in hand. They weren’t fancy photos, but they were real — and they were everything. We’d sit together for hours and flip through the prints like treasure.
When I became a mother, my camera never left my side. My boys’ faces, their tiny details, their everyday moments — I wanted to remember it all. That love for documenting grew deeper when I made small albums for each of them. Today, those albums are their bedtime “origin stories,” proof of how loved they’ve always been. Proof that they were prayed for, that they belong to us.
When my mother-in-law passed away, photos became priceless. They told her story through decades of hairstyles, milestones, and moments. That experience was my final push to turn my passion into a profession. Turning 40 made me realize — life is short, beautiful, and worth documenting with intention.
What it’s like to work with me
If you’re looking for a stiff, rushed session — we’re not a match. But if you want:
A Charleston documentary family photographer who captures authentic, unrushed connection
A Folly Beach documentary wedding photographer who blends candid storytelling with a touch of editorial polish
A maternity or newborn session in your home that feels like a warm hug (Mount Pleasant, Summerville, West Ashley — I come to you)
…then we’re probably a great fit. I’ll guide you through outfits, prep without overwhelm, and create a space where you can actually enjoy the process. And when it’s over, you won’t be left with files sitting on a hard drive — you’ll have albums, framed prints, and wall galleries you can love every day.
Why clients choose me
Because I see you. Not just your smile, but the way your partner’s hand finds yours without thinking. The way your baby fits perfectly in the crook of your arm. The way your child plays with your necklace.
My clients describe me as:
Personable, professional, and warm
Patient and supportive (even with wild toddlers or big family groups)
An artist with a unique eye for finding imperfect perfection
Someone who makes sessions stress-free, unrushed, and fun
Proof of Mom
Perfection is overrated. Show up anyway. Especially as moms — proof of you matters. One day, these photos will be all your children have to see how deeply you loved them, to see the home you created, to see how much they loved you.
Let’s tell your story
Whether we’re in your living room in Summerville, barefoot on Isle of Palms, or chasing light under the moss-draped oaks of Charleston, my goal is the same — to create images that feel like you. Real. Beautiful. Worth remembering.
