Business Details
26 Years
experience
Timeless Portraits in Waterloo, Iowa
Welcome to McNelly & McKenna Photography, where we specialize in creating timeless portraits that celebrate your unique story. Since 2000, Crystal and Aaron, a husband-and-wife team with formal education in photography and graphic design, have dedicated themselves to capturing life's most meaningful moments. Our Cedar Valley studio serves the Waterloo and Cedar Falls communities, offering personalized portrait sessions for children, families, seniors, and businesses. Crystal's expertise in professional posing and off-camera lighting ensures every image highlights your best features while preserving authentic expressions. Aaron's background in graphic design enhances our post-production process, adding refined finishing touches that elevate your portraits.We approach each session with a deep understanding of the importance of family memories, having built our studio to provide a comfortable yet professional environment for every client. Our full-service experience includes outfit guidance, customized session planning, and expert assistance in selecting prints and digital products. We pride ourselves on making the entire process stress-free, from initial consultation to final delivery of professionally retouched images. Whether you prefer traditional wall portraits or digital collections, our goal remains the same: to create heirloom-quality images that will be cherished for generations. Let us help you preserve your family's legacy through photography that truly reflects your unique story.
Services
Children Portraits
Family Portraits
Senior Portraits
Business Headshots
Sports Photography
Preschool Photography
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of professional photography experience
- Our team provides personalized session planning and outfit guidance
- We use professional off-camera lighting techniques for perfect results
- Full-service experience from consultation to final product selection
- Expert retouching and graphic design finishing touches included
Services
Children Portraits
Specializing in newborn and children's portraits since 2000, we capture the innocence and joy of early years through professional posing and lighting. Our sessions focus on natural expressions and personality, with expert guidance for parents. Includes post-session consultation for print and digital product selection.
Family Portraits
Creating cohesive family portraits since 2000, we specialize in posing multiple generations and large groups. Our process includes outfit coordination assistance and customized groupings. Available with in-studio or Zoom viewing appointments for print and digital product selection.
Senior Portraits
Custom senior portrait sessions showcase individual style through personalized consultations and location selection. Includes print credit for wall portraits and digital products. Features professional retouching and styling guidance to highlight each graduate's unique personality.
Business Headshots
Professional headshot services for individuals and companies, featuring outfit guidance and backdrop selection. Sessions include image review on professional equipment and retouching services. Offers both studio and on-location options for corporate groups.
Sports Photography
Specializing in sports team and individual portraits for Cedar Valley schools since 2000. Provides quick turnaround times and online ordering system. Focuses on capturing dynamic action shots and traditional posed portraits for athletes and teams.
People
Crystal McNelly
Photographer
BFA in Photography with 20+ years of experience specializing in portrait photography. Expert in newborn, children, and senior portraits with special training for children with special needs.
Aaron McNelly
Graphic Designer
BA in Graphic Design with expertise in photo retouching and digital finishing. Collaborates on all post-production work to enhance portrait quality while maintaining natural appearance.
Questions
What is print/product credit?
Print/product credit is applied toward wall portraits, framing, canvas prints, albums, and gift prints. We handle all printing and finishing to professional standards.
What does full-service photography mean?
Full-service includes expert guidance, professional imagery, retouching, and product selection. We manage every step from consultation to final product delivery.
What if children are sick before a session?
Sessions can be rescheduled if children are unwell. We prioritize comfort and want subjects to feel their best during photography.
Can you photograph children with special needs?
Yes, Crystal has specialized training to work with children with special needs. We'll discuss specific requirements to create an accommodating session.
How do remote family members view portraits?
We offer Zoom viewing appointments for family members who cannot attend in person, providing the same guidance and selection process.
What's included in business branding sessions?
Branding sessions require consultation and include customized corporate photography. Services cover individual headshots, group portraits, and location-specific branding imagery.
