Family members entering a church for a memorial service

About Dearly Told

Meet Martin Verduzco.

The photographer you should barely notice—and the photographer your family will always remember.

Begin a private conversation
Portrait of Martin Verduzco, founder and photographer at Dearly Told
Martin VerduzcoFounder & photographer

The heart behind Dearly Told

Presence before photographs.

I’m Martin Verduzco, the founder and photographer behind Dearly Told. I created the studio around a simple belief: people deserve to be remembered with care, and families deserve space to be present while that story is preserved.

Rather than directing an emotional day, I pay attention to the room and work with restraint. The goal is a thoughtful visual record of the people, connections, and details that made the day meaningful.

White flowers and candles arranged inside a memorial chapel

My approach

Before I photograph, I listen.

Every funeral and memorial is different. I take time to understand what matters most, what should remain private, and how you want the day documented. That understanding guides every decision I make afterward.

Real people.
Meaningful moments.
Lasting records.

Your wishes guide everything

You decide what is photographed.

Before the service, we’ll talk about what you do and do not want photographed. Nothing is assumed, and every preference is treated with care.

  • People and moments you want intentionally included
  • Guests who prefer not to be photographed
  • When natural light is preferable to flash
  • Casket coverage—full, partial, details, or none
  • Religious or cultural moments requiring extra discretion
  • Venue restrictions and photography guidelines

Your comfort, your wishes, and the experience of your family and guests always come first.

Hands holding a treasured black-and-white family photograph

The people behind every story.

A family member reviewing archival photographs before a memorial service

Before the day

A thoughtful conversation before the day.

We’ll have one focused planning conversation with the person your family designates. We’ll confirm names and pronunciations, traditions, the schedule, important people and details, the venue’s rules, and any sensitive boundaries I should be aware of.

This preparation means your family should not need to manage me on the day. I arrive knowing what matters and adapt quietly as events unfold.

A guiding principle

Nothing is assumed. Everything begins with your wishes.

Quietly present. Deeply respectful. Always yours.

A final note

Thank you for being here.

I know planning a funeral or memorial can feel like a lot. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Dearly Told.

If you have questions or would like to share what you’re planning, I’d be honored to have a private conversation.

Martin Verduzco

Begin a private conversation (224) 358-9063
A carefully preserved stack of black-and-white family photographs

The people behind every story.