I’m so glad you’re here.

Hey, I’m Bailey!

I’m the face (and the camera) behind Blackbird & Rye Photography—a Chicago-based wedding and lifestyle photographer who believes in real moments, deep belly laughs, and the kind of love that feels like home.

For close to a decade, I’ve been documenting weddings and life’s big (and small) milestones with a mix of artistry and authenticity. My goal? To capture the heart of your day—the quiet in-between moments, the wild dance floor chaos, the stolen glances, and all the magic that makes your love story yours.

I shoot with intention, making sure your photos feel just as joyful, effortless, and timeless as the memories they hold. My style leans documentary and emotive, with a love for natural light and true-to-life colors that make your photos feel like a warm, nostalgic hug.

When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll probably find me thrifting, cheering on the worst team in baseball (Go Sox!), or hanging out with my husband, Jeremy, and our three kiddos—Rylan, Lennon, and Teddy. We’re all about good music, great food, and making time for the people we love.

If you’re looking for a photographer who’s equal parts professional and hype girl, someone who will keep your wedding day stress-free while making sure you have the best time ever—then we might just be a perfect fit.

Let’s make some magic together!

📍Available in Chicago + beyond (passport ready!)

My bags are packed -

My bags are packed -

📍 Dream Wedding Destinations

  • A coastal wedding in Maine with moody weather and vintage vibes

  • A wedding or elopement in Italy (Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, or the Dolomites)

  • A chic Parisian wedding with a sunrise Eiffel Tower session

  • A New Orleans wedding with a second-line parade through the streets

  • An intimate desert elopement in Joshua Tree or Sedona

I believe in creating an experience.

I believe the way your day *feels* is just as important as how it looks. The best photos aren’t just pretty—they pull you back into the moment, letting you relive the joy, the energy, the quiet in-betweens. That’s why I focus on creating an experience where you can be fully present, knowing your story is being captured exactly as it unfolds. No forced poses, no stiff moments—just real, honest memories that *feel* like you.