creative . authentic . wonderfully timeless.I'm Kenny Nakai, an award winning Chicago wedding photographer specializing in clean, modern wedding imagery for couples who appreciate artistry, intention, and timeless sophistication. My approach is rooted in authenticity—capturing genuine moments as they unfold—while offering confident, refined direction so my clients always look and feel their best.
There is intentionality behind every image I create. As your wedding photographer, I am constantly observing how light, lines, color, balance, and patterns all come together in a frame. It is my role to recognize these details and thoughtfully pair them with the right composition, pose, and expression.
We create something beautiful together. Something different. Not just a picture to view. Something you connect with and feel.
BRITTANY & ERIC
We had the absolute pleasure of working with Kenny for our wedding and engagement photos, and it was the best decision we ever made!
The quality of Kenny's photos is unmatched. He is incredibly creative and goes above and beyond to get the most perfect shots. The care and detail he puts into his craft shows in each photo. He so perfectly captured the love, joy and magic of our entire wedding.
Kenny is exactly who you want to have with you on your wedding day! He makes everything feel so easy and comfortable, and he is incredibly efficient with sticking to the timeline.
Connection is central to my process. I take the time to understand my clients and their families, creating an atmosphere of ease and trust from our first conversation through the wedding day itself. When you feel comfortable, you’re free to be fully present—and that’s when the most meaningful photographs are made.
MADDIE & JOHN
Kenny made us feel so comfortable on both our wedding day and for our engagement photos.
Every shot is a work of art, it’s been nearly impossible to choose which ones to frame. Kenny perfectly captured the day - every detail and moment. Months later, I am still getting frequent compliments on our photos, and countless people have told us they are the most beautiful wedding photos they’ve ever seen.
Chicago is an essential part of my creative language. The city’s bold architecture, striking skyline, and diverse landscapes provide a powerful backdrop that is incorporated into epic photography. These elements enhance the story without distracting from what matters most—the connection between the couple and the people you love.
ABBY & BILL
We had the pleasure of working with Kenny as our photographer, and he truly exceeded all our expectations! Kenny was not only professional but also incredibly kind and calming, which was such a relief during a high-stress time leading up to the wedding.
The photos are amazing - perfectly capturing the magical moments and allowing us to relive the joy and love from that day. On top of all this, Kenny delivered everything a month early, which is incredible given the sheer number of photos and the amount of work involved in editing them. We cannot recommend Kenny enough -- he truly made our wedding day unforgettable!!
With a calm presence, a discerning eye, and a commitment to quality over quantity, we create beautiful, timeless wedding imagery designed to be felt as much as it is seen. For couples seeking a Chicago wedding photographer who values authenticity, discretion, and refined storytelling, I would be honored to tell your story.
DANIEL & EMILY
From the minute we had our consultation with Kenny, we knew instantly we wanted him capturing our special day and the moments leading up to it.
His professionalism and knowledge of all things wedding and photography made us feel so comfortable being in front of the camera.
He's incredible at giving direction and truly wants to get the best shots possible no matter what it takes. He has extensive knowledge of every hotel and venue throughout the Chicagoland area, so he knows where the best photo spots are. He makes every wedding unique so that none are the same, no matter the location.
Kenny is one of one and I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone looking to get professional photos taken.
Incredible Colors for Their Fall Wedding at The Langham Hotel
RITZ CARLTON Luxurious Decor and Rooftop Photos at The Ritz Carlton Chicago
In the Clouds for Their Wedding at The Intercontinental Chicago
Do Not Forget to Stop and Smell the Roses at The Four Seasons
Lush Natural Decor Paired Perfectly With The Old Post Office
They Made it Snow Inside The Gold Coast Ballroom at The Drake Hotel
Modern Decor + Drapery Transformed The Loews Chicago
Exchanging Vows Under The Tiffany Dome at The Chicago Cultural Center
With 19yrs experience, there is a good chance that I’ve worked at your Chicago venue before - feel free to ask! Couples love to see photo galleries from their venue. A common follow up question: “What happens if you haven’t worked at our venue before?” The answer: I come prepared! Before your wedding I will scout your space and have portrait ideas ready for your special day. I love finding all best spots in a new space!
I love shooting weddings and being around people on the happiest day of their lives! Since I've worked so many weddings, I can anticipate the general flow of your wedding and look for the moments and details that make your wedding unique! It's an honor and privilege to witness and document your special day.
I work hard to get your wedding files ready as soon as possible! The night of your wedding I post 3 teaser photos on my Instagram to add to post-wedding euphoria. 2-3 weeks after your wedding I post my favorite 60-90 photos on the NAKAI Wedding Photography blog. 1 month after your wedding, all your pictures are posted in a password protected online gallery. 3 months after your wedding your custom USB flash drive is mailed. NOTE: These are the general expectations - I do work hard to over deliver for my couples!
When it comes to wedding files, redundancy is the word. I start by shooting on two memory cards in each camera should one card fail. After the reception, I prefer to park on site so I'm not walking around with expensive camera equipment and your memories at 11pm. Once at home, your wedding photos are backed up to two hard drives and a third copy is stored off site until files are uploaded to the cloud.
In Chicago, we have to be prepared for all weather related scenarios. I do have a few inclement weather suggestions depending on the locations of your venues. Wind speed is also something to consider when photographing near the lakefront or in areas prone to strong gusts of air. It is also helpful to have a hotel or venue with beautiful interior decor as an option for your wedding photos. I have recommended spaces for couples who want to prioritize a photogenic indoor space!
- AS FEATURED IN -
Chicago Wedding Photographer
312-298-9721
3334 N Avers Ave #2
Chicago, IL 60618
