Photo by Island Time Photography at Pirates Cove Pavillion, Manteo NC

Island time photography is all about creating a relaxed experience in taking photos. “It doesn’t even feel like you’re getting your photos taken!” is the number one thing I hear back after my sessions.

Anything from family sessions to headshots, I’ve done most of it! My passion behind the camera relies on creating a documentary-style experience where telling a story is key. This is what I spent 3 years on in college, documenting commercial fisherman and their occupation. I have carried that style over into my portraits and belive that is what sets me apart from the rest.

 

I love making creative sessions as it helps me get out of the hustle flow and lets my mind go back to creating something and having a more hands-on approach to the final product. I’ve worked hard at photos now for almost 4 years, while having a camera since 2012.

Serving The Coast & Outer Banks

Island Time Photography Outer Banks

When I was about 5 years old, I had a Nintendo 64 with pokemon snap, a photo-taking game, and I always remember loving to use disposable cameras. I think at a young age I knew I loved taking photos but never expected to be a photographer! Since I was interested in taking photos at such a young age, by the time I got out of high school and went off to college, I knew I wanted to own a business and started the path of going to business school. That was not fun, at all, so I decided to spend the 4 years doing what I love: Photography, and expanding my knowledge of making art in the form of photos.

Headshot of Chandler Tillet by Katie Ludolph Photography at Coquina Beach, Nags Head NC

Headshot of Chandler Tillet by Katie Ludolph Photography at Coquina Beach, Nags Head NC

I was home sick in the city and the Outer Banks was all I knew! I grew up here and knew it would be beneficial to running a photog business. After coming home, I knew this was what I wanted to do for a career and wanted a fun name that would never have to be changed. Island Time photography is built on the idea your photos should be just as relaxing as your vacation! The OBX area itself is so magical, the off-season vibe is really what I love, even if I wish it was warm all year round. The community is really great here and they are built on helping others in need. Something that surprises people about the Outer Banks is that the show was not filmed here, nor is it an accurate representation geographically – but the 2 jobs or 2 houses line is very true! We’re a bunch of hustlers here.

For elopements, I want to help couples plan the adventure they take while they are here on vacation and also their ceremony by teaming up with other vendors to create a simple but wonderful experience for couples. I enjoy boat riding and am an avid skipper. I know the waters around the area, and this is also a plus for achieving a location that most people will not be able to reach. 

Headshot of Chandler Tillet by Katie Ludolph Photography at Coquina Beach, Nags Head NC

Headshot of Chandler Tillet by Katie Ludolph Photography at Coquina Beach, Nags Head NC

My favorite thing about being a photographer is meeting people and bringing them joy by capturing their moments in a storytelling way that they can relive forever. The amount of photos I return to my clients is way greater than what most photogs will return to their clients, I do not believe in upcharging for photos because you as a client shouldn’t have to make hard decisions. 

Photo by Island Time Photography at Nags Head Golf Links, Nags Head NC

Photo by Island Time Photography at Nags Head Golf Links, Nags Head NC

Q: What’s your title/position in your business?

A: Chandler Tillett, One Man Band (Owner/ Photographer)

Q: What’s a fun fact about yourself?

A: I can drive and park a boat with no issue 🚤

Q: Is there a wedding detail on your bucket list?

A: Island Style Elopement – A very laid-back and natural-looking ceremony with neutral colors and a session or 2 really capturing what the possibilities are tying the knot while already at your vacation destination! This could be a day at the beach, ice cream at Surfin Spoon, a trip to see the wild horses, things like that.

Engagement photo by Island Time Photography on a boat off Wanchese, NC

Engagement photo by Island Time Photography on a boat off Wanchese, NC

First look photo by Island Time Photography in Manteo, NC

First look photo by Island Time Photography in Manteo, NC

Chandler is awesome. She goes above and beyond to make your visions come to fruition. Do yourself a solid and book a shoot with her. You won’t be sorry. ❤ – Paula Chrismon

I’ve been featured in NC EDGE Magazine 5+ times since October 2020

Photo by Island Time Photography at Nags Head Golf Links, Nags Head NC
Behind the scenes photo of Chandler Tillet by second shooter on Coquina Beach, Nags Head NC

Behind the scenes photo of Chandler Tillett by second shooter on Coquina Beach, Nags Head NC