If you're looking for a photographer in Central Wisconsin to capture your family's most precious moments, you've got plenty of talented options. But with so many independent shooters in the Wausau, Stevens Point, and Marshfield areas, how do you choose?
Central Wisconsin's Photography Scene: A Close-Knit Community of Independent Pros
Central Wisconsin's photography market is dominated by independent, locally-owned studios and sole proprietors. Unlike big cities, there are no national chains competing here — it's all about personal relationships and word-of-mouth referrals. Photographers in Wausau, Stevens Point, and Marshfield often know each other and share a similar client base. Most specialize in family, maternity, and newborn work, with some branching into weddings or boudoir. The rural and suburban setting means outdoor locations are abundant, and clients value a photographer who can handle natural light and unpredictable weather. Pricing is competitive, and the best photographers book up fast, especially during fall and spring.
How I Ranked These Photographers
I evaluated each photographer based on four key factors: service breadth (do they cover family, maternity, newborn, and more?), experience and reputation (years in business, client reviews), transparency (clear pricing and packages on their website), and overall quality of portfolio (consistency, editing style, emotional connection). I also considered geographic coverage within Central Wisconsin and how well they serve the specific needs of families with young children.
Here's a quick comparison of the top five photographers to help you decide at a glance.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Kelly Jacobi Photography | Versatile full-service photography |
| Chelsea May Photography | Experienced newborn and family specialist |
| Jenna Reinke Photography | Belly-to-baby maternity and newborn packages |
| Tasha Sayer Photos | Personalized, client-focused family sessions |
| EJ Imagery WI | Fun milestone and cake smash sessions |
Deep Dive: The Best Central Wisconsin Photographers for Your Family
#1 Kelly Jacobi Photography
A screenshot of the Kelly Jacobi Photography website.
Kelly Jacobi is widely considered Wausau's top photographer, serving all of Central Wisconsin including Stevens Point and beyond. With a broad service menu covering family, maternity, newborn, senior, boudoir, and engagement sessions, she offers something for every life stage. Her investment page is transparent, and her portfolio shows consistent, high-quality work. If you want a one-stop shop for all your portrait needs, Kelly delivers. She's been in the game long enough to handle any lighting or location challenge.
#2 Chelsea May Photography
A screenshot of the Chelsea May Photography website.
Chelsea May has over a decade of experience specializing in family, maternity, and newborn sessions in Central Wisconsin. She takes a quality-over-quantity approach, meaning she limits the number of sessions she books to give each client her full attention. Her investment page clearly outlines packages, so you know exactly what you're getting. If you value a seasoned pro who treats every shoot like a work of art, Chelsea is a top pick. Her newborn work is particularly stunning, with soft, natural poses.
#3 Jenna Reinke Photography
Jenna Reinke focuses on maternity, newborn, and family photography in Central Wisconsin, with a signature belly-to-baby package that covers your entire journey. She offers a client wardrobe for moms, making it easy to look your best without extra stress. Her on-location sessions take advantage of Wisconsin's natural beauty, and her editing style is warm and timeless. If you're expecting and want a seamless experience from bump to baby, Jenna has you covered.
#4 Tasha Sayer Photos
A screenshot of the Tasha Sayer Photos website.
Tasha Sayer offers family, maternity, newborn, and other photography sessions in Central Wisconsin. Her website provides easy booking details, a portfolio to browse, and a contact form for inquiries. While she may be newer to the scene compared to some competitors, her work shows a genuine connection with families and a clean, natural aesthetic. She's a solid choice if you're looking for a personal, approachable photographer who makes you feel comfortable in front of the camera. Tasha's sessions are tailored to your vision, whether it's a lifestyle shoot at home or a posed studio session.
#5 EJ Imagery WI
A screenshot of the EJ Imagery WI website.
EJ Imagery WI is based in Marshfield and specializes in family, milestone, and cake smash sessions. They serve the same Central Wisconsin region with a fun, playful approach that kids love. Their portfolio is full of bright, candid moments that capture real personalities. If you're celebrating a first birthday or want a relaxed family shoot, EJ Imagery is a great budget-friendly option. They also offer mini-sessions during peak seasons, making it easy to get professional photos without a huge time commitment.
How to Choose the Right Photographer for Your Family
Start by identifying what type of session you need: maternity, newborn, family, or milestone. Look for a photographer whose portfolio consistently shows the style you love — whether that's bright and airy, moody and dramatic, or candid and documentary. Check their investment page to see if packages fit your budget. Read reviews or ask for referrals from local mom groups. Finally, trust your gut: the best photographer is one who makes you feel at ease and excited for your session.
Automate Your Booking Workflow
Once you've chosen a photographer, streamline the process by using online scheduling tools and automated email reminders. Many photographers offer online booking through their website, so you can reserve your session without back-and-forth emails. Set up a simple CRM to track inquiries, send contracts, and collect deposits automatically. This saves you time and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
Your Next Step: Book the Photographer Who Feels Right
Central Wisconsin is lucky to have so many talented photographers dedicated to capturing life's biggest moments. Whether you choose the versatility of Kelly Jacobi, the experience of Chelsea May, the belly-to-baby focus of Jenna Reinke, the personal touch of Tasha Sayer, or the playful energy of EJ Imagery, you're in good hands. The key is to book early — especially if you're expecting — because the best slots fill up months in advance. Now go ahead and reach out to the photographer that speaks to you.