If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
Capturing Your Best Moments-Stress-Free & Affordable.
Hi! I’m the founder of Dearest, specializing in intimate events, micro-weddings, portraits, and special occasions throughout Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New York. I focus on shorter, high-impact bookings (up to 3 hours), so you get premium-quality photography without paying for full-day packages you don't need.
Why Clients Choose Dearest:
Interactive Event Photo Sharing: Every event package includes the option to get a custom QR code so your guests can instantly upload, share, and view event photos and heartfelt messages in real time. ($50 value)
Fair, Transparent Pricing: Top-tier photography tailored to your budget.
Fast Turnaround & Local Expertise: Serving CT and select RI and NY locations.
Whether you need event coverage, family portraits, or branding shots, let’s make it memorable. Send me a message today to check availability!
Overview
Hired 6 times
Serves Hartford, CT
Background checked
1 employee
1 year in business
Business hours
Sun12:00 pm - 8:00 pmMon5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Credit card, Google Pay, Venmo, and Zelle.
Services offered
Photoshoot type
Photography style
Traditional
Candid
Artistic
Natural
Photoshoot location
Outdoors
Photo studio
Home
Office
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
5.0
3 reviews
5
100%
4
0%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Alicia R.
Aug 31, 2026
We had such a wonderful experience with Kathy from Dearest as the photographer for my stepdaughter, 16th birthday photos. from start to finish, she was incredibly professional, patient, and easy to work with. She made my stepdaughter feel comfortable and confident through the entire session, and it truly showed in the photos. The quality of Kathy‘s work was an above and beyond what we expected. Every picture was beautifully captured, with great attention to detail, lighting and the special little moments that made the session so memorable. Final photos were absolutely stunning couldn’t have been happier with the results! Our experience with Kathy was so positive that we decided to have her photograph our family as well. She has a wonderful way of making everyone feel comfortable and bringing out smiles and personalities. We now have beautiful family photos that we will treasure for years to come. I highly recommend Kathy to anyone looking for a talented, professional, and personable photographer. She truly goes above and beyond to create beautiful memories!
Dearest LLC.'s reply
Alicia, thank you for your wonderful review. It was such a pleasure photographing Lauren and the rest of the family over the years. With such wonderful people to spend time with, it was like being with family! Thank you for helping me grow my portfolio and being such a joy to work with!
Elizabeth M.
Aug 30, 2026
Kathy from Dearest was the best to deal with for our wedding photography! Not only was she professional and easy to work with, the ideas she came up with the day of wedding made our pictures ones that we will cherish forever. Would highly recommend her to photograph any and all functions a photographer is needed for.
Dearest LLC.'s reply
Thank you so much, Liz! It was such a pleasure photographing your wedding. You made it easy with your beautiful family and location. Thank you for trusting me with such an important and memorable occassion!
Benjamin M.
7 days ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Could not be more happy with the photos. She had them posted really quick also. Highly recommended.
Details: Wedding • Fewer than 25 guests • Indoors
Dearest LLC.'s reply
Thank you, Ben and Kelsea! It was my pleasure. I wish you all the best and hope you enjoyed your honeymoon!
Wedding and Event Photography
Credentials
Background Check
Kathy Ecke
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Pricing is based on the number of hours requested and the travel distance to and from the location. In addition to the photography service, I offer the option for a QR code to gather guest photos. Quotes do not include cash and are specific to the hours discussed. Additional time beyond original quote will be billed by the hour.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I look to learn as much as possible about the customer and the type of photography they are looking for via email. Following that, if the customer is interested, I'll schedule a call to discuss the fine details.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been a photographer for over 10 years, and I am self-trained. I am always learning and willing to try new techniques.
