Hi I’m Nicole.
Golden Hour Chaser, Magic Maker.
Based out of Historic Galena, Illinois and available for travel worldwide, Orange Anchor is a lover of light, color, and images dripping with authenticity + life. I’m here to invest in you and every chapter of your story.
Looking for that perfect someone to capture your moments? The messy ones, the sweet ones, the fleeting ones. Look no further.
FAQs
Why the name Orange Anchor?
It all begins with an idea. The anchor is a symbol of being grounded and constant for my love of all things creative + I chose orange, not only because it's my fave, but because it’s a power color - it stimulates creativity and represents vitality.
Besides a Photographer, Who are you?
I’m mama to the sweetest blue eyed little boy, Archer Kane, wife to Shawn, and “Ms. Cole” the Graphic Comms Instructor at the CTE Academy in Elizabeth, IL. I liked tacos before they were a thing and am an advocate of afternoon naps at any age. I believe getting your hands dirty is good for the soul and that I’m outright fire at singing Tina Turner’s Proud Mary. Don’t ask me to prove it unless you have tequila.
What is your style?
“Magical, full of life, authentic, colorful, creative, candid, vibrant, raw, warm, captivating, and really fucking awesome” are few terms that have been used to describe my work.
What is a typical session with you like?
Not one session is alike. But the majority include laughing, twirling, fart sounds, story telling, jumping, hand holding and ring-around-the-rosie, nose kisses... just to name a few. Brides reading this, bodily noises usually only occur after the vows have been said and that one groomsman (you know who I'm talking about) has had a few too many.
Do you travel? Do you have a studio?
My passport is current and I’m a light traveler so I can have my bag packed in 10 minutes flat. YES, I welcome new destinations with open arms + often run specials for my personal bucket list locations. (message me for details)
NEW FOR 2024! OA now has a studio location! Located in Historic Galena (with off street parking) is my natural light space.
Favorite thing about being a Photographer?
Meeting people and discovering what makes them extraordinary. I also just genuinely love being behind the camera and feel most “myself” when creating.
What People Are Saying
“Orange Anchor Photography gave us the most beautiful photos I've seen. Nicole is an expert at lighting, and picking out rich and earthy colors. The photos feel nostalgic, and look like a memory. Nicole was super helpful as well with posing us, so if you aren't an expert model, she will gladly assist you so that your pictures turn out perfect!”
— Meghan D.
Nicole has been part of our lives for just about 5 years now. We have done 3 lovely sessions from afar and we always look forward to her coming to town. Not only does she capture our family perfectly with her incredible talent, she has become a dear friend of ours. Lucky us!”
— Janelle T.
“I highly recommend Orange Anchor Photography. Nicole has been snapping candid shots of our family since the beginning of her career. Her ability to get the attention of our three rambunctious boys is truly a gift. Always creative, beautiful photos .”