HI! I am Leigh and the proud owner of Leigh Bedokis Photography!

I was born and raised right here in beautiful Southern Illinois. I love it here and there is nowhere else I’d rather call home. I am the eighth photographer in four generations. How cool is that? (I joke that I have photo chemicals in my veins.) I grew up watching my uncle in the photography studio, and I had no idea that this is what I would choose to do with myself and that it would make me so incredibly happy. I truly love my job. I mean what other job out there allows you to be with people on the happiest days and moments of their lives? That is the most awesome part of my job!

I received my Bachelors of Art Degree from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. That is when I had to grow up…what was I going to do with my life? I had always been so intrigued with people and relationships. I knew portraiture was the life for me. I am truly my happiest around others; I find I want to tell their stories. I want to share a newborn’s first days, a bride and grooms’ first kiss, a child’s first deep belly laugh. I am completely enamored with people and cherish every second I get to spend with others. This is what makes me love my job. This is what pushes me to be a better person and the best “story teller” I can be.

I have been “telling stories” since October of 2000 when I first opened my doors at Leigh Bedokis Photography. I have photographed over 450 weddings since then. I have seen over 400 first kisses! Awesome, right? My studio has been featured on various websites such as The Knot, The Bump, Family Circle and Parent’s Magazine.

At Leigh Bedokis Photography we specialize in portrait photography. At the studio, we specialize in children and family photography. We do weddings and commercial work, as well! We offer different mini sessions throughout the year on certain holidays. Always check our Facebook for specials! We would love to chat with you about your next session, give us a call at 618.985.6016 or visit our website at www.bedokis.com.