We had the good fortune of connecting with Tessa Berg and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tessa, what are you inspired by?
I’m deeply inspired by connections with people and the in-between moments that often go unnoticed—those little interactions filled with laughter and joy. My goal as a photographer is not just to capture an image but to create a space where my clients feel so comfortable and at ease that their genuine selves shine through. Candid moments where trust and authenticity are evident are my favorite to document.

I also find endless inspiration in beautiful light—the kind that transforms a scene and breathes life into a photo. Light has this magical ability to evoke emotion, and it’s something I’m always chasing. Travel is another big source of inspiration for me. Experiencing new environments and perspectives fuels my creativity and reminds me of the shared beauty in our human connections.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in storytelling and human connection, and what sets me apart is my ability to blend a photojournalistic approach with an eye for detail and authenticity. From the moment I picked up a camera as a child, helping my grandfather piece together family albums, I understood the power of preserving meaningful moments. That early experience led me to study photojournalism at Kent State University, where I honed my skills in capturing narratives, from military homecomings to deeply emotional personal stories.

Today, I bring that storytelling passion to weddings and family photography, with a special commitment to celebrating love in all its forms. Inclusivity is at the heart of my work—I’m proud to support and capture the stories of couples from diverse backgrounds, orientations, and experiences. Love is universal, and I strive to create a safe and welcoming space for every client so they feel valued, celebrated, and seen.

I don’t just document events; I focus on what makes each couple and family unique, translating their connections into timeless images. I believe the best photos come when people feel completely at ease, so I prioritize creating a warm and comfortable environment in every session. This has been key to building trust with my clients!

Getting here hasn’t always been easy. Balancing life as a business owner, photographer, and mom to three amazing girls has taught me the importance of patience, adaptability, and finding joy in the process. The challenges, like managing a full schedule while ensuring my work reflects my artistic vision, have only strengthened my dedication to this craft.

What I want the world to know about my brand is that it’s about more than just beautiful images—it’s about celebrating relationships, capturing joy, and preserving the fleeting moments that tell your story. Being selected as “Best of Columbus Weddings” for four consecutive years is an honor, but the real reward is having clients return to me year after year, entrusting me to capture their journey—from engagements and weddings to growing families and life’s many milestones.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting the area, I’d plan an itinerary that showcases all the charm, culture, and flavor that Columbus has to offer. We’d kick off the week with breakfast at Fox in the Snow. Their coffee is incredible, and their egg sandwich? It’s hands-down the best in the city—I’m practically drooling just thinking about it!

After breakfast, we’d head to Franklin Park Conservatory to immerse ourselves in its stunning botanical displays. For lunch, Northstar Cafe would be a must-stop. Their mint iced coffee pairs perfectly with the Northstar Burger (or the Chopped Salad—it’s always a tough call).

The afternoon would be dedicated to strolling through the Short North Arts District, popping into local boutiques, art galleries, and soaking in the creative vibe. A late-afternoon treat would come from Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams—waffle cones loaded with flavors like Salty Caramel, Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks, Brambleberry Crisp, and Pistachio & Honey.

Evenings would be all about incredible dinners. Commune is my personal favorite for its fresh, locally-inspired dishes. Basi Italia and Lindy’s are also fantastic spots, offering cozy vibes and delicious food. If we’re lucky enough to snag a reservation, we’d definitely visit Chapman’s Eat Market—it’s high on my bucket list!

Throughout the week, we’d carve out time to explore German Village, with a stop at The Book Loft, one of the most charming bookstores around. And we’d grab some macarons from Pistacia Vera. Sundays are perfect for visiting the Columbus Museum of Art since it’s free that day!

With my girls, we’d also spend some time at the Columbus Zoo and COSI Science Museum. Both are always a hit, and they hold a special place in our weekly routines. For a bit of a road trip, we’d drive to the Groovy Plants Ranch, which is a plant lover’s paradise. Their unique selection of plants is unmatched and so fun to explore.

Columbus has so much to offer, and this itinerary would give anyone visiting a perfect mix of art, culture, great food, and family-friendly fun.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My best friend, Sara (Saradoesseo.com), has been a cornerstone of my journey from the very beginning. She built my very first wedding website, pulling all-nighters with me to get it perfect, and has continued to create all my subsequent sites. Sara has always believed in me, even in moments when I struggled to believe in myself. She’s still my number one cheerleader in the industry, constantly challenging me to grow. Her expertise—especially in ensuring my SEO game is strong—has been a huge part of my success.

Beyond Sara, I owe so much to the Columbus wedding industry and the countless ‘friendors’ I’ve been lucky enough to work with. This community embodies a true ‘community over competition’ mindset, and I’m endlessly grateful for the florists, planners, photographers, venue owners, DJs, and more who speak my name when I’m not in the room. Their referrals and support mean everything to me and have been pivotal in shaping my career.

Website: https://www.starling-studio.com

Instagram: starling_studio

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/starlingstudioweddings

Image Credits
Tessa Berg | Starling Studio

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