Helping Businesses Grow

About Matt Gilliam Photography

Portrait photo of Matt Gilliam sitting on a blue bench at a local park

Hi! My name is Matt and I’m a professional photographer, graphic/web designer, and SEO consultant. I provide photography services for local small businesses, real estate agents, contractors, commercial developers, local governments, and more that are looking for a local photographer to take photos and/or video for their website and marketing.

I have experience in many different fields of photography, including portrait photography, photo and video editing, as well as drone photos and videos.

Although I have been shooting photographs since I was a kid, it was only when I acquired my first DSLR camera several years ago that I discovered my passion for photography.

Since then, I’ve been honing my skills and expanding my knowledge in order to provide the best possible results for my clients. My decades of graphic design expertise have been invaluable in helping me take my photography to new levels.

If you’re in need of a local photographer or commercial drone operator in the West Chicago, IL area, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’d be more than happy to discuss your specific needs and see how I can help. Thank you for your time!

Professional Software That I Use

Adobe Acrobat Reader Icon
Adobe® Acrobat Reader DC Pro®
Adobe Photoshop CC Icon
Adobe® Photoshop®
Adobe Illustrator CC Icon
Adobe® Illustrator®
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC Icon
Adobe® Lightroom Classic®
Adobe Premiere Pro CC Icon
Adobe® Premiere Pro®
Adobe After Effects CC Icon
Adobe® After Effects®
Google Drive Logo
Google Drive®
I Love Flying My Drone

Part 107 Licensed Drone Pilot

I’m a licensed drone pilot (part 107), which allows me to capture unique perspectives that would otherwise be unavailable.

I obtained my license through the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) which is required for all commercial drone pilots in the United States. This license allows me to legally operate a drone for business purposes, and I am fully insured.

I am able to fly up to 400 ft. (plus building/structure height within 400 ft.), check for notices to airmen (NOTAM), and obtain authorization to fly from air traffic control (LAANC) within 5 miles of an airport that has a control tower. I’m also able to fly at night for amazing nighttime photos and hyperlapses.

If you’re interested in adding aerial photography or videography to your project, please check out my drone services and let me know what you like.

Photo of the DJI Mavic Air 2 drone flying
My Drone: DJI Mavic Air 2

4K Smooth Video @ 60 FPS
25 – 30min. Flight Time per Battery
6.5-mile Distance (3 miles legally)
~ 42 mph Max Speed

Life Is Amazing

Passion. Empathy. Adventure.

Photo of a dog on a woman's shoulder

I have over 20 years of experience as a graphic designer, and my photography skills have been honed to new heights due to this background. I find great enjoyment in capturing important moments, whether it be a small business milestone or a real estate listing.

I have strong attention to detail, and my easygoing personality puts people at ease in front of the camera. I’m also proficient in Photoshop and Lightroom, which allows me to quickly edit and deliver high-quality photos.

I am constantly striving to improve my skills and learn new techniques in order to provide my clients with the best possible results. I am passionate about what I do, and it shows in my work.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need a professional photographer in the West Chicago, IL area or western suburbs. I’d be more than happy to discuss your specific needs and see how I can help.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Need Web Design and/or SEO? Want More Website Traffic?

If you are looking for web design or SEO services, I also provide WordPress website development and local search engine optimization.  I own and run Optic Cell Media and I can help your business get more customers through effective online marketing strategies, so contact me today!

Follow Me on Instagram

Check out my latest work by following me on Instagram. I regularly post new photos, so be sure to check back often!