Effingham, IL – October 14, 2026 – The Effingham County Chamber welcomes Waffordhouse Studios, a local photography business owned by Katelann “Kate” Wafford, as one of its newest members.
Based in the Effingham area, Waffordhouse Studios specializes in family, senior, newborn and wedding photography, along with professional headshots and other milestone sessions. Katelann started her photography business in 2024 with a focus not only on creating beautiful images but also making sure the people in front of her camera feel comfortable and confident.
That personal approach is carried out through each session. Katelann describes herself as her clients’ “personal hype girl,” capturing the posed photos families want while keeping an eye out for the candid, in-between moments they may not even realize are happening.
Her sessions range from family and senior portraits to maternity, newborn, weddings, special occasions, and professional headshots. Waffordhouse Studios also offers customizable options for clients looking for something outside of a traditional photography package.
The Chamber has also had the opportunity to work with Katelann firsthand. Waffordhouse Studios is serving as the official photographer for the Chamber’s 2026 Top Community Leaders Under 40 and Future Leaders program, photographing this year’s recipients for the annual Top Leaders publication and recognition event.
“We’re especially happy to welcome Katelann as a Chamber member after having the chance to work with her through this year’s Top Leaders program,” said Chamber President & CEO Katie Koester. “She has a way of making people feel comfortable in front of the camera, and we’re looking forward to seeing Waffordhouse Studios continue to grow.”
For Katelann, photography is about giving clients more than a collection of images. Her goal is for people to leave a session feeling good about the experience and have photographs that preserve the people and moments they want to remember.
Waffordhouse Studios is based in the Effingham area and is available for travel. To learn more, view Katelann’s portfolio or inquire about a session, visit WaffordhouseStudios.com or contact her at 618-322-5403.
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New member photo | Pictured (left to right): Chamber Operations Assistant Jenny Shelley, Owner Katelann Wafford, Chamber Membership Director Becky Brown, and Chamber President & CEO Katie Koester
Top Leaders photo | Waffordhouse Studios owner Katelann Wafford with Chamber President & CEO Katie Koester & Chamber Membership Director Becky Brown during the 2026 Top Leaders Under 40 headshot session. Waffordhouse Studios is serving as the official photographer for this year’s Top Leaders program.

About the Effingham County Chamber
Founded in 1917, the Effingham County Chamber has been a leader in supporting business growth and community progress for more than a century. Today, the Chamber continues to champion local success through advocacy, professional development, and initiatives that strengthen Effingham County’s economy. To learn more about Chamber membership, visit EffinghamCountyChamber.com or call (217) 342-4147.