Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheleana Rowan.
Hi Cheleana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling… the kind that lives in the in-between moments, not just the picture-perfect ones. I grew up in Traverse City, Michigan, where my mom always had a camera in hand, quietly teaching me to notice life as it unfolds. But one of the most pivotal years of my life came in 2017 — the year I both lost my mama and met my soulmate. Losing her was devastating. She was the person who taught me how to see beauty in the ordinary and why connection matters so deeply. At the same time, meeting my husband that same year felt like the universe giving back a piece of what I’d lost. Almost eight years later, he’s filled in those broken pieces, and I think in many ways, that’s what I try to do for others through my work.
Photography became my creative outlet to help people feel seen, understood, and beautiful just as they are. That’s my purpose — to tell stories that feel like real life, not a performance. As someone who had an intimate wedding myself, I understand the desire to strip away the noise and celebrate love in its truest form, surrounded only by the people who genuinely know and love you.
Today, I specialize in photographing micro weddings and elopements throughout Michigan and beyond. My focus has never been about grandeur; it’s about meaning… those fleeting, irreplaceable moments with the people who matter most. Every photograph I take carries that understanding: these moments can’t be redone, and they deserve to be preserved with care.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
When I first started photography, over 11 years ago now, it wasn’t easy finding my footing. I didn’t have a degree or formal training, just a camera, curiosity, and a lot of heart. But in those early years, I struggled to be taken seriously. The local community could feel intimidating, and not everyone was kind or welcoming. There were photographers who brushed me off, people who made small comments that stung more than they probably realized. It made me feel tiny…like my dreams were cute, not credible. If that makes sense.
Still, I kept showing up. I spent late nights teaching myself everything I could — editing, lighting, business, storytelling — anything that could help me grow. My family and a few close friends were my lifeline when the outside world didn’t believe in me. Every little milestone, from booking a session to delivering my first gallery, felt like a victory I had to earn twice over.
I’ll never forget the very first few clients who trusted me in those early days, the ones who saw something in me before I even fully saw it in myself. They took a chance, stayed loyal through all the growth and learning, and spread my name through word of mouth long before I ever had marketing or a brand. I’m endlessly grateful for them; their belief helped build the foundation of the clientele I have today.
Even today, imposter syndrome sneaks in sometimes. It’s wild to look back and realize I’ve built this entire business from the ground up… no shortcuts, no formal training, just perseverance. I’ve learned that confidence doesn’t come from never doubting yourself; it comes from showing up anyway. Those early struggles gave me grit and empathy, and they remind me how far I’ve come every time I pick up my camera. I’m sounding cheesy, but it’s so true.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I photograph micro weddings, elopements, and intentional celebrations, the kinds of days that are rooted in meaning rather than scale. My work blends documentary and editorial styles; I want my couples to feel like they’re in their own story, not a photoshoot. I’m known for capturing emotion in a way that feels honest… the tear-filled laughter, the wind-tousled crazy hair, the little glances that say everything without words. Ooof.
What sets my work apart is the experience behind the camera. I invest deeply in my couples, not just as clients but as people. By the time their wedding day arrives, I want them to feel like I’m a friend they can trust completely. That trust is what allows the genuine, unguarded moments to unfold, and it’s what I’m most proud of. Seriously.
I also take pride in the fact that I’ve built my business on connection and word of mouth rather than heavy advertising. Funny enough I didn’t have an actual website until 1.5 years ago! But have been solidly booked over the past 8 years. Nearly all of my bookings come from past clients sharing their experience, and that means the world to me. Photography is personal, and I treat it that way. I’ve never wanted to just take pretty photos; I want to preserve the feeling of a day that can’t be repeated…something real, something lasting. That’s important to me.
In addition to photographing weddings, I also create educational resources for other photographers. Teaching has become a really meaningful extension of what I do, especially because I’m self-taught myself. I know how discouraging it can feel to not “get it” right away or to feel like everyone else speaks a language you don’t understand yet. My heart is really for those photographers — the ones who are passionate but maybe struggle with traditional learning styles or just need someone to explain things simply, without making them feel silly for asking questions.
I’ll be releasing my first full photography course soon, focused on simplifying the exposure triangle and helping beginners truly understand their cameras without fear or frustration. My goal is to make learning photography feel empowering, approachable, and actually fun, because everyone deserves to feel capable of creating something beautiful.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something that surprises a lot of people is that my childhood wasn’t easy… not in like the typical sense, but because my mom was really sick for much of it. She and I were incredibly close, and watching someone you love go through that kind of struggle changes how you see the world. My dad wasn’t around much growing up, so there was a lot to navigate early on. (We have bonded since then, and he actually gave me my second official camera in my journey)
Then, in 2017, I lost my mom. She was my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, and the person who taught me how to find beauty in everyday life. That loss reshaped me completely. It made me realize how fragile time is and how powerful it can be to preserve it.
I think that’s why I approach photography the way I do. For me, it’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about recognizing that these people and moments won’t always be here. Every time I take a photo, it feels like my way of saying, “I see you. I value you. I don’t want this moment to fade.” And I think that’s why I am so close to most of my clients. I genuinely just care so much.
Pricing:
- Elopements – $3800+
- Micro weddings – $6000+
- I offer minis both up north and downstate that typically start around $300+ and are seasonal
- All regular sessions – $950+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cheleanamariephotos.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheleanamariephotos?igsh=cjE4M2EyNjI5b3Bs&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Bkb9ieeu8/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@cheleanamariephotos?_r=1&_t=ZP-91JoA8qSdAt
