Meet Marly Arturo: Charleston Wedding, Family & Branding Photographer
Hi, I’m Marly — a Charleston photographer, mom of three boys, and storyteller at heart. If motherhood has taught me anything, it’s how quickly time moves. One moment you’re cradling a newborn, the next you’re chasing sandy little feet across Folly Beach. That’s why I believe photography matters so deeply — it’s the only way to hold onto life’s fleeting moments.
Why I Do This
When my boys were little, I realized I was always behind the camera and rarely in the photos. Our family’s story was missing me. That realization changed everything. I made a promise — to step into the frame for my own family and to help other families do the same.
That promise grew into what is now Marly Viviana Photography. Over the years, I’ve photographed weddings in Charleston, maternity sessions on the beach, newborn portraits in cozy nurseries, and branding sessions for entrepreneurs building their dreams. Every time, my heart comes back to the same truth: life is too beautiful and too fleeting not to celebrate it with meaningful images.
Photography is not just about smiling at the camera. It’s about preserving emotions — the way a groom looks at his bride, the giggles of kids running barefoot in the sand, the quiet power of a woman holding her baby bump, or the spark in an entrepreneur’s eyes when they talk about their business. Those are the moments worth remembering.
Charleston: A Photographer’s Dream
Moving to Charleston six years ago felt like finding home. The Lowcountry has a magic all its own — golden sunsets over the marsh, oak trees draped in moss, historic cobblestone streets, and beaches that stretch for miles. As a Charleston photographer, I’m endlessly inspired by this backdrop.
- Downtown Charleston weddings have a romantic, timeless feel with their pastel buildings and historic churches.
- Folly Beach and Isle of Palms family sessions are playful, relaxed, and full of movement.
- Summerville maternity photos beneath the oaks glow with southern charm.
- Branding sessions in Charleston’s cafes and creative spaces show off the entrepreneurial spirit of this city.
Charleston isn’t just where I work — it’s part of the stories I capture.
Weddings in Charleston
As a Charleston wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of documenting couples who travel from around the world to marry here. There’s something so special about this city — from Magnolia Plantation to The Gadsden House downtown, each venue carries history and beauty.
My approach to weddings is a mix of documentary and fine art photography. I capture the candid, in-between moments while also making sure you have stunning portraits to frame. Your gallery will include the laughter, the tears, the joy of your people — not just perfectly posed images.
Couples often tell me they chose me because they didn’t want stiff photos — they wanted their wedding day captured in a way that felt alive. That’s exactly what I do.
Family & Maternity Photography in Charleston
As a mom myself, family photography holds my heart. Kids grow fast, and those messy, joyful, imperfect moments are the ones you’ll want to remember. My Charleston family photography sessions are relaxed and playful — I encourage families to interact, laugh, and just be themselves.
For maternity sessions, I focus on the quiet beauty of anticipation. Whether it’s on the beach with the ocean breeze or in your own home with intimate lifestyle portraits, maternity photography is about celebrating the miracle of life before it changes forever.
And for newborns? I believe in simple, natural photography that focuses on connection. You’ll see images of you holding your baby, gazing at them, and soaking in those early days that feel like a blur.
Branding Photography in Charleston
In addition to weddings and families, I also love working with entrepreneurs through branding photography. Charleston is full of creatives, small business owners, and professionals who want their online presence to feel authentic.
Branding sessions are about more than headshots — they tell your story. I capture you in your element: whether it’s behind a desk, creating a product, or engaging with clients. The result is a set of images that reflects your personality and builds trust with your audience.
In today’s digital world, strong branding photography is not a luxury — it’s a necessity.
My Process & What Makes Me Different
There are many talented Charleston photographers, and I admire them all. What makes me unique is the way I approach each client. I don’t see photography as just delivering a gallery. I see it as walking alongside you — from our first conversation to the day you hang your portraits on the wall.
Here’s how I work:
- Connection first — I want to know your story. The more comfortable you feel, the more natural your photos will be.
- Guided, not posed — I’ll gently direct when needed, but mostly I encourage movement and interaction. This creates genuine emotion.
- Heirlooms, not files — I believe in printing your photos. Albums, wall art, and prints turn fleeting moments into tangible memories.
- Heart-driven — At the end of the day, I don’t just take pictures. I capture love, connection, and legacy.
The Clients I Love to Work With
My favorite clients are people who value photography as more than “just pictures.” They’re parents who don’t want their kids to grow up with memories stuck on a phone. They’re couples who want their wedding images to reflect real emotion. They’re entrepreneurs who want to share their story with the world.
If you’re someone who values authenticity, artistry, and storytelling, we’ll be a perfect fit.
Beyond the Camera
When I’m not working with clients, you’ll find me homeschooling my boys, volunteering in the community, sneaking in a good book, or barefoot at the beach. My own family life is the heartbeat of my photography — it reminds me daily why these fleeting moments matter so much.
Let’s Celebrate Your Story
If you’re searching for a Charleston wedding photographer, a family photographer in Charleston SC, or branding photography in Charleston, I’d love to connect. My goal is simple: to capture your story with heart, artistry, and authenticity.
(843) 790-3578
marlytakespics@gmail.com
Let’s celebrate your life, your love, and your legacy — together.