Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Merkle
Julie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Starting with some basics: I’m a queer woman and an immigrant (adopted at 6 months old) who has two small photo + video businesses and am always on board to make some good trouble through visual art with my community.
My love for photography began in high school when my teacher told me I had a real eye for it—and I haven’t stopped taking photos since. I was also a huge theatre kid, so I very quickly found a love of theatre photography, continuing to take pictures for anyone who asked.
In 2015, I had a wild adventure working as a photographer/videographer on a cruise ship. It was a turning point for me and allowed me to see so much of the world, explore new cultures, and begin to understand where I fit in. In 2016, I landed my “dream job” as a photo intern at The Muny. I stayed there for 8 years as their full-time Photo + Video Specialist, eventually leaving in 2022. My time at The Muny allowed me to not only hone my skills (while meeting some truly fantastic artists and humans!) but also to dive deeper into the broader world of marketing and visual storytelling. Since my time there, I’ve worked at a domestic violence shelter and was the Social Media Manager for the “Yes on 3” campaign in the most recent election, which was a pivotal moment in my career.
I now operate a photo studio in Grand Center and with my business partner + video genius friend David, capture high-end artistic weddings (@we.are.echos). I live a beautiful, quiet life in St. Louis City with my fiancée (woot!) and our fur children, Harvey and Midge.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, and honestly, my biggest obstacle has been my own brain. I learn differently than most.
I spent one semester at MSU before realizing college wasn’t the right fit for me. I was in a Stage Management 101 class when I was handed a textbook and told to learn from it. I didn’t even have to open the cover to know it wasn’t going to work for me. I love to read, but I struggle with retention—I’ll read the same paragraph multiple times and still not get it.
I didn’t learn photography from a textbook or lecture hall; I learned it through observation, listening, and a ton of trial and error. Over time, I’ve figured out how I learn best. Now, instead of books, I dive into audiobooks, podcasts, and YouTube. Finding this out about myself has been a game-changer.
There have been plenty of moments when I’ve had to block out society’s “shoulds” and remind myself that my path is my own. Maybe that’s why the arts have always felt like home for me—they’re a space where individuality is celebrated. More recently, I’ve discovered a passion for teaching and inspiring younger generations to find their own way in the arts. I’d love to do more of that in the future.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Broadly speaking (and according to my LinkedIn bio), I am a Digital Storyteller, Social Media Strategist, and Advocate for Change.
At the core of my work, I love connecting with people and helping tell their stories. Whether it’s weddings, headshots, social media for small businesses, or working with human rights activists, I’m here to help you get noticed and make an impact—while I obsess over the details that will make everything shine.
I know what it’s like to be so wrapped up in your work that the last thing you want to do is figure out the latest algorithmic trend for a TikTok post or how to prep an email campaign for Small Business Saturday.
I also know the feeling of knocking on doors, hearing “no” all day, and then realizing as you collapse on your couch defeated that you forgot to take a picture for the grid.
I know on your wedding day, you want to feel like the most beautiful, loved person on earth—while also having your day captured authentically, with every detail (and every aunt and uncle) accounted for.
What I’m most proud of? A few things come to mind.
First, during my time at The Muny, I was fortunate to become one of the most well-known photographers in the theater community. Theatre photography is its own art form—lighting challenges, rapid movement, and capturing the raw emotion of live performances made every shot a challenge I loved. The work I produced there, and the stories I helped tell, are some of the things I’m most proud of.
Second, I’m incredibly proud of the recent campaign we just wrapped and won. Working on the Yes on 3 campaign was one of the most rewarding experiences. After weeks of navigating toxic DMs and intense pressure, we got so many heartfelt messages from Missourians who thanked us for helping to create a space where like-minded people could come together. In those moments, I knew our work had made a real impact on people’s lives.
Lastly, I’m deeply proud of my volunteer work with the STL Steering Committee for the Human Rights Campaign. Our committee is a powerful, unyielding force in a state where LGBTQ+ rights are constantly under threat. It’s a fight I will remain committed to for the rest of my life.
What sets me apart?
I think it’s my ability to balance the personal with the professional.
I understand the pressures my clients face, whether they’re juggling a small business or navigating the emotional highs and lows of an activist campaign or wedding day. I focus on the details so they don’t have to, while also making sure the bigger picture—whether it’s a brand’s identity or a person’s story—comes through loud and clear. It’s about making people feel seen and heard, while also helping them tell their story in a way that feels authentic, engaging, and impactful.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about St. Louis is the sense of community.
The small business scene here is incredible—whether it’s arts shows, farmers’ markets, or the local coffee shops, there’s a real sense of support for one another. What I appreciate most is how people come together, show up for each other, and really invest in the city’s growth.
What I dislike? The state of the roads. I know, I know…preaching to the choir…but in the same breath: WHY is reliable public transportation still such a challenge here? Being a human who has spent a decent chunk of time on the East Coast, it is a huge missed opportunity, and if I ever leave St. Louis, you will know why.
Also, I think the city gets a bad rap for being “dangerous” or “boring,” and that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s also a narrative deeply rooted in fear.
St. Louis is full of amazing, passionate people doing incredible work to change their communities. You just have to stay open to finding those glimmers of hope and progress and recognize that the narrative doesn’t always reflect the full picture.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jmerklephoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j_merkle/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/we.are.echos/
