About - Photography by Bryan Girolami

ABOUT BRYAN

My name is Bryan Girolami, and I am the photographer behind Photography by Bryan Girolami. I moved from Michigan to Rochester, Minnesota, nine years ago and now call this community home. In addition to being a freelance photographer, I am a critical care nurse at Mayo Clinic Hospital—Saint Marys Campus.

Both nursing and photography have taught me the importance of patience, trust, careful observation, and genuine human connection. I believe those qualities help people feel comfortable in front of my camera and allow me to capture photographs that feel natural, personal, and honest.

My wife, Mary Ann, works alongside me during portrait sessions. Together, we pay close attention to every part of the experience—from wardrobe, locations, lighting, and posing to hair, movement, and the overall flow of the session. Our goal is to create an atmosphere that feels relaxed, enjoyable, and completely personal to you.

MY PHOTOGRAPHIC STYLE

My photography is centered around a fresh, natural, and refined style, with room for dramatic, creative, and unconventional images whenever they complement the person or story I am photographing.

I do not approach a session with the goal of recreating the same photographs you have already seen. Instead, I carefully select locations, lighting, composition, and details to create images that feel distinctive—photographs that could only belong to you.

During senior and portrait sessions, I look for natural expressions and genuine moments while also providing thoughtful direction when it is needed. I want every person to look confident without appearing overly posed. The finished photographs should feel polished and professional while still looking like the person you know.

My work also reflects a lifelong connection to the outdoors. Whether I am photographing a graduating senior, a family, wildlife, or a hunting companion in the field, I am drawn to natural environments, changing light, meaningful details, and authentic moments. I especially enjoy using golden-hour light, open landscapes, interesting skies, and carefully chosen surroundings to give each photograph depth, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place.

I use professional, high-end equipment, but exceptional photography involves much more than the camera. It requires understanding light, anticipating moments, recognizing small details, and helping people feel comfortable enough to be themselves.

Ultimately, my goal is simple: to provide you with an enjoyable, personal experience and photographs that feel genuine, timeless, and unmistakably yours.