Let’s Get Personal: The Story Behind the Lens
I thought it was high time I introduced myself—not just a quick “hey, how are you?” kind of post, but one where you can truly get to know me, the person behind the camera. Let’s be honest: the photography world is full of options these days. With so many talented folks offering their services, it can be hard to know who to trust—who has real photography education, who understands the art, and who can consistently deliver the kind of images you’re dreaming of.
So here it goes—this is me, in my own words.
My Accidental Start (Thanks to My Daughter)
If you're wondering how I ended up here, you can thank my daughter—my 18-year-old social media queen. One day, she grabbed my phone and added me (and my little photography business) to a bunch of online groups. Without asking, she created my Instagram account, started posting for me, and even told everyone at her high school and her job (she’s a server at a pizza place) about my work. In fact, the first wedding I ever photographed came from someone she talked to—she showed them my photos, and they loved them. Just like that, I was in.
Where It All Began
I’ve been clicking the shutter since 2008, when I got my very first Canon DSLR as a gift. It was such a refreshing change from the point-and-shoot cameras I had used before. I didn’t know what any of the buttons did, but the Auto setting seemed to work just fine. Still, I knew there had to be more.
Enter a friend—now a dear one—who opened up a whole new world of photography to me. She introduced me to Jasmine Star and The Pioneer Woman (who was sharing loads of photography content back then), pointed me toward helpful books and classes, and encouraged me to shoot constantly. I didn’t feel “ready” after one year… or even five. But I kept going, pushing myself to master manual mode and learning the ins and outs of Lightroom and Photoshop.
A Creative Journey
At the time, I was also running a successful Etsy shop, sewing little girls’ dresses. I kept that business going for 16 years. Thanks to my product photography, I was often asked by other vendors to shoot brand images for them. As long as I had a model, I was happy to do it! But when COVID hit, everything changed. My once-busy Facebook page lost traction, and business slowed. In 2023, I decided to close the shop—not because I was failing, but because I missed being present for my family. One daughter was heading to college, and the other was finishing high school. I didn’t want to miss it.
Back to the Camera
So what did I do? I picked up my camera and said yes to everything. Football games, cheer squads, proms, homecomings, graduations, newborns—you name it. I became a housewife with a camera and a hobby I absolutely loved (and yes, it’s a very expensive hobby!). I dove into more education, upgraded to mirrorless cameras, and never looked back.
A Little More About Me
I’m married to my best friend—someone I met in Germany, where I spent half my life. My mom is German, my dad American. He took a job overseas, and my sister and I were lucky enough to grow up attending American schools while living in a German community. It was a beautiful, exciting life that I will always cherish.
As a government employee, my husband’s job took us all over: Germany, Turkey, Louisiana, and finally Florida. Oddly enough, we “retired” here, even though I’m not a fan of the heat. I love my house but often daydream of a life up north—with seasons, trails, and cooler weather. Maybe one day. For now, you’ll find me editing photos until I’m blue in the face, hanging out at the beach, or spending time with the people I love most.
Thank you for being here. Whether you’re a client, a friend, or just someone stopping by—I’m so glad we’ve connected. I hope this gives you a glimpse into who I am, what I value, and why photography means so much to me. I don’t just take photos—I create space for memories, milestones, and stories that matter.
