Discovering Sacred Vow Photography

programmanager72
Jul 21
3 min read

Downtown Madison Photography Studio

Photo Credit to Joel Ferguson of Sacred Vow Photography

Weddings are one of the most memorable days in a person’s life, and preserving those moments is so important. Joel Ferguson, owner of Sacred Vow Photography, understands the importance of capturing love stories with care. With every photo, Joel pours his heart into giving couples a lasting reminder of their special day.

Joel’s passion for photography began early. “I remember always taking a camera when I was in boy scouts because a lot of what got me into photography was wanting to remember the adventures I went on. In fifth grade I would take a disposable camera to school just to take fun photos with my friends,” he shares. What started as a childhood hobby evolved into a lifelong craft, one he has been perfecting for more than 17 years.

Photo Credit to Joel Ferguson of Sacred Vow Photography

After high school, Joel spent time in St. Louis refining his skills behind the camera, followed by photography classes at Ivy Tech in Columbus. His journey then led him to Chicago, where he worked under the legendary Dennis Manarchy. There, Joel learned the art of tintype photography and contributed to the fascinating project Butterflies and Buffaloes, a photographic mission to capture America’s vanishing cultures.

Eventually, Joel returned to his hometown of Madison, Indiana, with stops in Tennessee along the way. He and his wife Miranda have since put down roots in Madison, where they’re raising their three children and their dog, Cooper. During this time, Joel launched Old Things Made New, his construction business. But photography was never far from his heart.

Photo Credit to Joel Ferguson of Sacred Vow Photography

Today, Joel is fully embracing his creative path again. He collaborates with other local photographers on weddings, building a supportive community that shares knowledge and opportunity. “We all stay in touch and help each other out on different jobs,” Joel says.

Photo Credit to Joel Ferguson of Sacred Vow Photography

In December 2024, Joel took a major step in his photography journey by opening a studio at 723 W Main Street. After months of planning and preparation, the studio officially opened its doors to the public. Inside, Joel offers headshots, branding sessions, product photography, consultations for larger shoots, and rare tintype portrait sessions, a vintage style that’s hard to find today. Outside the studio, he continues to capture the magic of weddings, engagements, and portraits, helping clients preserve life’s most meaningful moments.

Joel has a creative vision for the future of his studio. “My dream is to have an interactive room where it's a camera obscura,” he says. This unique feature is planned for the second floor, but in the meantime, Joel is focused on making his space as accessible and welcoming as possible. He’s adding thoughtful touches like a changing station for families and a private dressing room for clients preparing and changing outfits for their sessions.

Photo Credit to Joel Ferguson of Sacred Vow Photography

Joel’s heart for people and his passion for celebrating union shine through in everything he does. He plans to eventually offer funding for pre-marital and marriage counseling and already helps couples plan their perfect day with each receiving a custom vow book as part of their experience.

Bookings can be made through Joel’s online booking site, as well as via Facebook, Instagram, email, or business phone.

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