Emmah Leu

I’m Emmah Leu, your creative partner, photographer, detail enthusiast & the founder of Mauvorney, a name close to my heart (it’s my middle name which means “my love”).

By day, I work in brand marketing in Chicago for some of your favorite ice cream brands. Outside the 9–5, I wear all my favorite hats: photographer, designer, and creative director. Mauvorney is the space where my love for storytelling, strategy, and style come together.

My creative journey started in high school with a fashion blog and my mom’s old Canon camera, and by the time I was in college at Indiana University, I was fully invested: running an online clothing boutique (shoutout Foster & Ozzy!!), designing websites, coaching student startups, and freelancing everything from brand design to photography.

Since 2016, I’ve honed a photography style that’s rooted in realness, documentary-style, bold, emotion-filled, and full of life. Whether I’m photographing a wedding, brand, or portrait, my goal is always the same: to tell a story that feels authentic and creatively elevated. My favorite projects are with people who are all-in: athletes, artists, business owners, couples… anyone who cares deeply about what they do and wants that passion reflected visually.

I’m the partner who loves the concepting just as much as the final delivery. From moodboarding to production and design, I thrive in the messy middle and love seeing ideas become reality. I’m equal parts big-picture thinker and detail obsessive, and I bring energy and intention to every project I touch.

I also freelance wedding design, creating cohesive, thoughtful visual direction for modern couples who want their wedding to feel like them.

When I’m not working with clients, you’ll likely find me on the pickleball court, out for a run, tackling a new side quest (DJing and ballroom dancing are my latest obsessions), or cooking up a new recipe while dancing around my kitchen. I’m always exploring creative outlets, which helps keep my work inspired and full of fresh perspective.

Chicago is home, but I’m always open to new places and fresh inspiration. Let’s create something great together.