Documentary Photographer in Kansas City
Welcome — I’m Merry, and I’m honored to be recognized as a leading elopement and family photographer in Kansas City. I specialize in documentary-style or candid photography, timeless family portraits including motherhood, maternity and newborns, graduating senior portraits, and legacy sessions that feel as real and meaningful as the moments themselves.
For over a decade, I’ve been trusted by hundreds of couples and families throughout Kansas City, Kearney, Liberty, North Kansas City, Overland Park, St. Joseph, Lawrence, Lee’s Summit, Parkville, Weston, Dearborn, Platte City, Mission and beyond to preserve their stories with care, creativity, and heart.
Kansas City Photography Services
Family & Multi-Generational Photography
Your family’s story is worth preserving — whether it’s just the five of you or four generations gathered together. My family sessions are relaxed, meaningful, and designed to capture real connection in every season of life. Scheduled in Kansas City, family sessions are for one nuclear family, while multi-generational legacy sessions are for an extended family.
Bride’s sister gazes at beautiful bride standing in window light at a private estate elopement in Mission Hills, Kansas. © Merry Ohler Photography, 2025.
Elopement Photography
Your wedding deserves to be documented beautifully — with honesty and artistry. Over the past 12 years, I’ve photographed hundreds of weddings - everything from large weddings at iconic Kansas City venues like Union Station, The Abbott, The Guild, Hotel President, Hotel Kansas City, and more, to intimate weddings and elopements in super cool niche venues, local courthouses and dozens of intimate backyard ceremonies. My joyful, peaceful documentary approach allows you to fully enjoy your day while I capture every detail and fleeting moment.
While I love marriage and enjoy photographing beautiful beginnings, I only accept eight weddings annually. If you’d like to work with me, reach out to me today to check if I have availability for your date.
Senior Portrait Photography
Graduating senior portraits should feel authentic and personal — a reflection of who you are at this milestone. My senior sessions are natural, relaxed, and a little bit fun, celebrating what makes you unique.
Maternity & Lifestyle Newborn Photography
From the quiet expectation of maternity to the tender chaos of newborn days, I create intimate, lifestyle portraits that capture the beauty of these fleeting seasons in your home or favorite location.
Mother holds infant’s hand.
Kansas City Photography Service Area
I’m proud to work with couples and families throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area, including: Liberty, Kearney, Excelsior Springs, Independence, Kansas City, Lawrence, Lenexa, Mission Hills, Olathe, North Kansas City, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Parkville, Platte City, Plattsburg, St. Joseph, Sedalia, Weston, Clinton, Raymore, Belton, Grandview, and the surrounding areas.
If you’re planning your photos or elopement in another location, I’d love to hear about your plans — I occasionally travel beyond the KC area for meaningful stories.
Your photos tell the story you’re writing together.
Your story needs a storyteller who will document each moment in its truest form, with all its unique, candid moments.
Let’s be friends! Follow me on Instagram @merryohlerphotography!
Let’s Work Together
If you’re looking for a peaceful, enjoyable photo experience with someone who notices the quiet moments, puts you at ease, and delivers photographs that feel true to you, please reach out today. I’d love to help you tell your story.
“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
I am slightly obsessed with houseplants! Here’s what we’re currently growing…
Boston Fern, Dracaena, Golden Pothos, Jade Plant, Molded Wax Agave, Jelly Bean, Mexican Hens and Chicks, Aloe Vera & a pup, Snake Plant, Patio Tomatoes, Cherry Tomatoes, Marigolds, and an assortment of partial sun flowers.
“Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting. ”
FAQs
What makes Merry Ohler Photography different?
I blend a documentary approach with gentle guidance to create authentic, timeless photographs that feel like you — not stiff or staged.
Do you offer both digital and printed photographs?
Yes — I deliver digital images and help you create heirloom-quality albums, prints, and wall art so your story can be displayed and enjoyed for generations.
How far in advance should I book?
For elopements, I recommend booking 3 to 18 months in advance. Family, senior, and newborn sessions usually book 1–3 months ahead. However, if you want to book photos sooner than that, don’t hesitate to reach out! If I have an opening I’d love to work with you!
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions can take place at your home, favorite park, or one of many beautiful locations throughout Kansas City — including Loose Park, Weston Bend State Park, the Nelson Atkins, Crossroads District, the WWI Memorial, and more.
Fresh on the Blog
The world is pretty loud these days. Come, tuck in close and read my blog for some quiet words about life, love stories, joyful images, what’s going on in Kansas City, and peace.
Why Families Choose Me
Clients often tell me they chose me not just for my photography — but for how comfortable, seen, and cared-for they felt throughout the process.
Over 10 years of experience photographing hundreds of weddings, families, and milestones.
Hundreds of sessions and weddings documented across Kansas City and beyond.
Peaceful, observant, documentary approach with just enough guidance to make you look and feel your best.
When you hire me to document your milestones, you’re gaining a friend. I’ll help you look your best, get comfortable, and capture truly authentic photos you can be proud to share and display for decades to come.
What are my clients saying?
Read what real customers have to say about working with me. (Hint: click the arrow on the images below to view more kind words.)
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Where do you want to go next?
Are you ready to chat? Contact me today to check availability for your wedding or photo session, view my engagement porfolio, or learn more about me!