Capturing Unforgettable Moments as Your Trusted Second Shooter in Telluride + Beyond

Malachi Lewis at Shell Creek Photography

Traveling Photographer Based in Montrose, Colorado

Based in Western Colorado, & frequently traveling across Colorado & Utah (as well as other locations), my name is Malachi & I bring over 10 years of specialized experience in wedding photography. From intimate mountaintop elopements to grand cultural celebrations, I’m experienced in diverse settings. I’d love to chat about second shooting for you!

↓ View Portfolio ↓
Couple gets married at Artist Point in Washington near Mount Baker.
Two grooms kiss during their elopement day in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Colorful sunset adventure elopement in Death Valley, California.

Experience & Expertise

Bride and groom walk into their post elopement reception surrounded by friends and family ready to celebrate with them.

Vibrant Celebrations

I’m experienced in the dynamic requirements of large-scale cultural weddings & large traditional weddings, understanding the details & moments that matter.

Camera Gear

Equipped with modern Sony digital cameras, a variety of prime & zoom lenses various flashes, & film gear, I’m prepared for any scenario—from desert sunsets to dimly lit receptions.
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Colorful party scene with people dancing and having fun at an outdoor event, vibrant lighting, and joyful expressions, capturing lively social interactions.
Elegant bride and groom on lush mountain meadow during sunset, capturing outdoor wedding photography in a scenic natural landscape.

Adventurous Weddings

Passionate about adventure, I’ve tackled 12+ mile hikes to capture stunning elopement ceremonies in remote locations & am experienced with travel for destination weddings & managing logistics on a wedding day.

Digital Gear

Sony A7iii x2
Sony A7riii
20mm 1.8
28mm 2.0
35mm 1.4
55mm 1.8
85mm 1.8
70-200mm 2.8

Film Gear

Pentax 645nii
45mm 2.8
75mm 2.8
104mm 2.4
120mm 2.8
Canon 1V
50mm 1.4

Bride and groom enjoy the stars near a campfire after their elopement day in Moab.

Other Gear

Variety of flashes for digital + film gear
Godox AD200 with trigger
Tripods
Super 8mm cameras
Other film cameras

Have Questions?

I’m adept at splitting my focus as needed throughout the event—whether that involves capturing intimate moments with either partner, assisting with lighting setups, or ensuring all angles are covered. And I’m always happy to schedule a call to talk more!

I am accustomed to traveling long distances! For weddings where I am contracted for 8 or more hours at a minimum rate of $75/hour, I’ll travel up to 2 hours without an extra travel fee. I am willing to travel further whether by car or flight if travel costs can be reimbursed.

My rates typically start at $75/hour for second shooting weddings. If you want me to be be the lead or an associate shooter, I am open to it based on pay & duties. My typical rate as a lead is $150/hour. I am open to discussion on these rates, just contact me & let’s talk!

I am accustomed to signing non-disclosure agreements & upholding the utmost discretion for private events for clients that value privacy. I am happy to work within your existing frameworks & contracts. I am an experienced photographer & do not need to build a portfolio. I’m there to serve you & your clients!

I tailor my services to meet your specific needs, ensuring seamless coverage of the couple’s wedding day. My expertise ranges from capturing candid moments and group portraits during cocktail hour to providing technical support with film & digital cameras, including off-camera flash. I excel in both lead & support roles, adept at managing details like gear organization & wedding attire adjustments. Communication is key; I’m ready to align with you through pre-event calls to ensure we’re ready for the day. I can match your style including shooting with particular lens choices or photographing with a shallow depth of field, underexposing highlights or whatever else is needed to better match your style of photography & editing.

Absolutely! I am happy to work with all sorts of couples including LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC couples, as well as persons with disabilities.

Yep! You can view a full gallery here. This gallery has a mix of indoor + outdoor, sunset, darker photos, full sun, etc.

You can also view another one here. This gallery was shot during a rainy day, had a darker sunset, more indoor photos, & flash used for the indoor reception. I also have more galleries available upon request.

  • Romantic black and white wedding photo of couple embracing and kissing in rain outdoors, fine art wedding photography captured by Shell Creek Photography, emphasizing love and emotional connection, blurred natural background.
  • Joyful outdoor wedding celebration with bride and groom holding hands, surrounded by smiling guests, colorful flowers, mountains, and rain droplets, capturing nature-inspired wedding photography.
  • Beautiful bride relaxing in a cozy, elegant bedroom with intricate iron headboard, wearing white satin pajamas and a veil, capturing wedding day moments with natural soft lighting.
  • Vibrant portrait of a woman with striking blue eyes and flowing red hair surrounded by colorful flowers, emphasizing floral photography and natural beauty.
  • Elegant wedding couple cutting a white floral wedding cake at reception, capturing beautiful moments of celebration and love, with a warm, inviting ambiance.
  • A romantic couple holding lanterns during sunset in a mountain landscape, celebrating love and adventure near Shell Creek, captured by Shell Creek Photography.

Second Shooting Portfolio

What can I help with? If you need someone to shoot details, portraits, cocktail hour, back you up for film, shoot film, shoot wider or tighter, tell me what you need & I’m there for you! Below you’ll find a gallery of images from a few recent weddings I’ve taken while second shooting. Feel free to browse the rest of my site for more of my work.

  • Golden crispy tacos filled with fresh vegetables, seasoned meat, and colorful toppings served on a blue ceramic plate. Perfect for food photography and culinary art.
  • Elegant wedding couple walking hand in hand in scenic outdoor setting, celebrating love with mountain backdrop, string lights, and outdoor reception, capturing romance and beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Relaxing bridal party enjoying champagne toast in coordinated pajamas at a modern, stylish hotel room.
  • Elegant man playing double bass outdoors, dressed in vintage style suit and cap, capturing musical performance in a natural park setting.
  • Delicate pink and cream peonies in glass vases decorate an outdoor dining table for a garden party or wedding reception.
  • Stunning landscape of a desert adobe building with a backdrop of red rock formations, lush green trees, and a clear blue sky, captured by Shell Creek Photography.
  • Elegant bride holding a pale pink cocktail near a beautiful floral bouquet, highlighting romantic wedding details with vibrant flowers and sophisticated accessories.
  • Vibrant mountain landscape featuring lush green forest and towering mountain peaks, captured by Shell Creek Photography, showcasing stunning outdoor scenery and nature photography in high detail.
  • Elegant outdoor wedding reception with scenic mountain views and lush greenery, featuring rustic decor, floral centerpieces, and warm candlelight ambiance at Shell Creek Photography.
  • Elegant outdoor wedding ceremony setup amidst lush greenery and mountain views, featuring floral arches, wooden chairs, and scenic landscape for a picturesque event.
  • Vibrant wedding photo captured in a lush green field with a mountain backdrop, showcasing professional wedding photography by Shell Creek Photography.
  • Elegant bridal portrait in black and white, capturing a joyful bride holding a bouquet, indoors with rustic decor, emphasizing wedding photography, bride's lace dress, and candid wedding moments.
  • Elegant outdoor wedding photograph featuring a bride and groom sharing a kiss, surrounded by lush greenery and floral arrangements with mountain scenery in the background. Perfect for wedding photography and outdoor event inspiration.
  • Elegant group of friends at outdoor wedding reception, dressed in formal attire, holding drinks, in a lush green park setting, celebrating together.
  • Elegant gold and diamond engagement rings in velvet rings boxes, surrounded by fresh small flowers on a rustic surface, showcasing quality wedding jewelry photography and craftsmanship.
  • Mini savory tartlets with green pesto, crumbled cheese, and red chili flakes, served on a blue ceramic platter at a catering event.
  • Elegant outdoor wedding reception scene with guests enjoying drinks and lively conversation, capturing the beauty of wedding photography and celebration ambiance; authentic, joyful moment.
  • Vibrant outdoor live music performance featuring a violinist and guitarist in a cozy, scenic setting at Shell Creek Photography.
  • Elegant wedding reception dinner table setting with silver forks, printed menu, and red napkin, showcasing fine event photography and wedding photography for special occasions.
  • Rustic outdoor wedding reception setup with elegant wooden chairs, white tablecloths, floral centerpieces, and string lights under lush green trees. Perfect for wedding photography and event planning.
  • Vibrant outdoor wedding reception setup with elegant round tables, wooden chairs, floral centerpieces, and outdoor string lights amidst lush green trees and scenic landscape.
  • Vibrant wedding celebration capturing joyous guests dancing and celebrating under string lights with lively atmosphere, featuring elegant attire and candid moments.
  • Mountain wedding ceremony at Shell Creek Photography, outdoor wedding with mountain backdrop, bride and groom exchanging vows in scenic Utah landscape, wedding photography with guests and floral decor.
  • Lush outdoor wedding setup with a round table decorated with a white tablecloth, surrounded by wooden chairs, and accented with elegant glassware, a floral centerpiece, and greenery in a scenic garden setting.
  • Elegant father and son dressed in formal suits enjoying outdoor portrait at green park.
  • Vibrant outdoor wedding celebration with stylish guests, lush green background, and natural sunlight, captured by Shell Creek Photography.
  • Vibrant outdoor wedding celebration with guests dancing and enjoying scenic mountain views, captured by Shell Creek Photography. High-quality event photography showcasing joyful moments in picturesque settings.
  • Enjoying a delicious outdoor meal with guests and a cute golden retriever during a stylish daytime event or celebration at Shell Creek Photography.
  • Vibrant wedding couple running in lush green field against a scenic red rock formation and blue sky, outdoor wedding photography capturing joy and natural beauty, professional wedding photography by Shell Creek Photography.
  • Beautiful wedding couple embracing outdoors with mountain landscape in the background, capturing candid moments, romantic atmosphere, wedding photography, scenic outdoor setting.
  • Delicious smoked salmon and cream cheese appetizers on a white platter, served at an elegant gathering. Fresh flowers and decorative drinks add to the sophisticated table setting for a memorable event.
  • Elegant wedding cake with floral decorations and candlelit ambiance at an outdoor evening event, capturing romantic celebration atmosphere.
  • Elegant wedding reception decorated with white paper lanterns and string lights in a spacious outdoor tent setting.
  • Elegant wedding couple celebrating outdoors with champagne, scenic mountain backdrop, and lush green landscape, captured by Shell Creek Photography.
  • Beautiful wedding couple walking hand in hand in a lush green field with a scenic red rock formation and partly cloudy sky in the background, capturing outdoor wedding photography.
  • Elegant outdoor wedding reception setup with a long wooden table, beautiful pink and white floral centerpieces, and soft ambient lighting under a canopy.
  • Lush outdoor wedding ceremony at Shell Creek Photography, with guests witnessing the bride and groom against a stunning mountain landscape, emphasizing nature-inspired wedding photography.
  • Vibrant outdoor wedding ceremony set against lush green mountains and trees, featuring a bride and groom exchanging vows with guests seated on either side in natural daylight.
  • Rose-colored cocktail in a coupe glass held by a woman's hand with white nail polish and diamond ring, stylish summer drink, springtime beverage, perfect for social gatherings.
  • Elegant outdoor wedding reception decorated with paper lanterns, lush greenery, and floral arrangements, showcasing beautiful event photography by Shell Creek Photography.
  • Groomed men in navy suits at outdoor wedding with lush green trees and mountains in the background.
  • Vibrant green leaves and plant decor on a glass drink menu at Shell Creek Photography.
  • Grilled lemon halves with fresh herbs and colorful vegetable-stuffed crab cakes served on white plates, garnished with greens and drizzled with balsamic glaze.
  • Cheerful dinner party with guests toasting wine glasses, elegant celebration, black and white, fine dining, social gathering, sophisticated event, memorable moment, upscale restaurant ambiance.
  • Colorful floral table setting at outdoor event under a white canopy, featuring rustic wooden chairs, vibrant blue glassware, and delicate flower arrangements, perfect for wedding or celebration photography.
  • Spring concert performance of a female singer with a live band under colorful lights at Shell Creek Photography.
  • Lavender and greenery wedding decoration with a long wooden reception table and elegant candlelit table setting inside a bright venue with large windows and outdoor view.
  • Elegant men in black suits and tuxedos at an outdoor wedding or formal event surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
  • Vibrant indoor celebration with joyful guests dancing and socializing in a rustic venue, capturing lively event atmosphere, friendship, and festive moments at Shell Creek Photography.
  • Lush botanical wedding setting with a mountain backdrop, featuring a smiling bride in a white gown holding a colorful bouquet and a groom in a blue suit, capturing outdoor wedding photography.
  • Night scene of a luxurious hotel with outdoor pool, illuminated building, and guests dining on the upper terrace at Shell Creek Photography, capturing elegant hospitality and serene nighttime ambiance.
  • Happy mature couple dancing together at wedding reception, celebrating love and joy, with twinkling fairy lights and joyful guests in the background.
  • Vintage black and white wedding photo capturing a happy bride and groom smiling inside a classic car, emphasizing wedding photography, romance, and timeless moments.
  • Vibrant outdoor wedding ceremony set against the scenic Rocky Mountains with guests seated on wooden chairs decorated with white and blue flowers.
  • Bacon-wrapped appetizers with skewers drizzled in balsamic glaze served on a wooden plank, perfect for gourmet catering or event photography.
  • Vibrant outdoor jazz band performing on a decorated stage with lush greenery and floral arrangements at Shell Creek Photography event.
  • Elegant live jazz band performing outdoors at a wedding reception, featuring talented singers and instrumentalists under a decorated tent with lush greenery for a romantic ambiance.
  • Vibrant wedding invitation and jewelry display with Rings, watches, and floral accents, on rustic wooden surface - perfect for wedding photography, engagement moments, and special event documentation.
  • Elegant bride in strapless wedding gown standing by large window, soft natural light highlights the flowing fabric and serene mood. Perfect for wedding photography and bridal portrait sessions.
  • Vibrant floral boutonniere with colorful flowers pinned to a teal suit jacket for wedding or event photography.
  • Elegant bride dancing at wedding reception with guests, capturing joyful celebration.
  • Rustic outdoor wedding table setup with floral arrangements and wooden "LOVE" sign, lush green grass, and trees in the background, ideal for garden wedding photography and event decor.
  • Refreshing cocktails with lemon and lime slices being shared at a social gathering, showcasing vibrant beverages and friendly moments.
  • Vibrant outdoor wedding celebration with couple dancing on a lush green field, mountain backdrop, joyful atmosphere, and festive mood captured in high-quality professional photography.
  • Elegant couple sharing a romantic kiss outdoors, capturing love and connection, with soft natural lighting and lush greenery background, perfect for wedding and engagement photography.
  • Elegant wedding couple cutting a white tiered wedding cake decorated with fresh white flowers, under a floral arch with greenery, during an evening celebration.
  • Happy women celebrating at an outdoor event, enjoying drinks and socializing in a scenic setting with mountains in the background.
  • A joyous woman at a social event, holding a glass and smiling at the camera, with friends in the background, under string lights, during an outdoor gathering or celebration.
  • Elegant bride and groom sharing a romantic kiss outdoors at sunset, surrounded by lush greenery and mountain scenery, captured by Shell Creek Photography for wedding photography enthusiasts.
  • Elegant outdoor wedding photoshoot capturing a happy couple relaxing at sunset on a vintage sofa in a scenic countryside setting, showcasing wedding photography, outdoor portraits, and romantic moments.
  • Vibrant party scene under a festive canopy, featuring people dancing and enjoying live music at a lively event captured with colorful lighting and joyful ambiance.
  • Vibrant wedding celebration with joyful guests dancing and enjoying live music under a large outdoor tent, capturing lively and candid moments at a wedding reception.
  • Elegant wedding preparations with bridesmaids helping bride get ready in bright natural light at Shell Creek Photography, capturing heartfelt moments and beautiful outdoor scenery.
  • Happy groom pointing at camera during wedding reception with friends, under string lights in outdoor tent setting; vibrant wedding photography.
  • Elegant woman in white wedding dress getting assistance from a stylist behind the window with mountain landscape and trees in the background, capturing the essence of outdoor wedding photography.
  • Elegant groom getting ready for wedding, assisting from an older man, in stylish black tuxedo with suspenders, preparing for outdoor ceremony at sunset, capturing special moment in wedding photography.
  • A picturesque outdoor wedding ceremony set against scenic mountain views, with a floral arch and elegantly dressed bride and groom exchanging vows in a natural, serene landscape.

Contact Me

Contact me & let’s talk! I’d be happy to answer your questions via email or text, we can also schedule a call to make sure I’m a good fit.

Email

malachi@shellcreekphoto.com

Text

402-615-3061

Malachi Lewis, a destination wedding and elopement photographer, with fiancé Kaleb.
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