What I'm Bringing to Duluth: 10+ Years of Photography Experience, a 300+ Piece Client Closet & a Very Different Approach to Photos
There's something funny about being the “new photographer” in town when you've actually been doing this for more than ten years.
Technically, yes. I'm new to Duluth. But I'm definitely not new to photography.
So while I'm jumping in and learning all about Duluth, Minnesota, I thought I'd introduce you to a few things I'm bringing with me.
1. More than 10 years behind the camera
I've spent years photographing people in all kinds of situations, locations, weather, lighting, and stages of life.
I've photographed people who told me beforehand that they were incredibly awkward in front of a camera. People who were nervous, who weren't sure they even wanted their photos taken. Kids who just wanted to run and play and kids who were shy and nervous. I’ve photographed those who didn’t feel comfortable in their skin and those celebrating learning to love themselves.
And I've learned how to work with all of them.
That's one of the biggest things experience gives you.
Not just knowing how to use a camera but knowing how to read people.
Knowing when to keep directing.
Knowing when to step back.
Knowing when someone needs a little encouragement.
Knowing when a moment is happening that shouldn't be interrupted.
I can anticipate an moment. I know how to give a moment a nudge to help it happen naturally. I know how to coax confidence. I know how to create a space that feels fun and safe.
My 10+ years of experience behind the camera brings a truly one of a kind experience for my clients.
2. A 300+ piece client closet
If you've ever stared into your closet and thought, what am going to wear to my photo session?! I have good news.
You don't necessarily have to bring anything.
My client closet has more than 300 pieces, ranging from XS–4X, including pieces that work beautifully for maternity and postpartum clients.
And yes, you can absolutely mix pieces from the closet with things you already own.
90% of what you see the women and infants wearing in photos came from my client closet!
My clients LOVE IT! It take the pressure and guess work out of what to wear, give you the chance to feel pampered and styled, and helps make your session that much easier.
3. Guidance from start to finish
One of the biggest misconceptions about professional photography is that you have to know how to pose.
You don't.
That's my job.
I don't expect you to show up knowing what to do at all. I'll guide you through posing, movement, where to look, what to do with your hands, and how to move in a way that feels natural.
I spend time getting to know you before the session so I can think about how to tailor the session and the guidance to fit what you need most.
4. A photography experience, not just a photo shoot
There's a difference.
I don't just show up with a nice camera and click the button.
I want the whole experience itself to be good from start to finish.
I want you to feel taken care of.
I want you to know what to expect.
I want you to have someone helping you with wardrobe and planning before your session even begins.
I want you to walk away thinking, That was actually really fun.
And then, of course, I want you to have photographs you'll love for years.
So many of my clients have said a photo session with me was an experience of making memories.
5. No cookie-cutter sessions
Every person is different. So why would every session look exactly the same?
I don't believe in forcing every client into the same poses, same locations, or same formula. I'll guide you, but we'll also leave room for your personality to show up. Because your photographs should look like you. Not like everyone else who hired a photographer that month.
I don’t subscribe to editing trends. My works is always bold and natural, it feels like how you remember the day. No filters or gradients that alter how you’ll remember the day.
6. An obsession with making people feel comfortable
This might be one of the most important things I bring with me.
You can have the best location, the best wardrobe, the best camera, the best lighting.
But if you're uncomfortable, it's going to show.
So I care a lot about creating an environment where you can relax.
If you don't know what to do?
Totally okay and completely normal. That's literally why I'm there.
I have a client questionnaire to get to know before our session. Some couples want steamy and some aren’t into much pda. Some kids are energetic and outgoing, some are shy and hesitant to participate. Some women want to explore their own boundaries during a boudoir session and some want to keep it modest. These details matter. I’m telling YOUR story and when you’re comfortable that shines through.
7. A love of photographing the real stuff
I want the beautiful photograph. Obviously.
But I also want the photograph that reminds you exactly what that moment felt like.
I always tell my clients: we’ll get at least one of the “traditional” expected posed and smiling for the camera. But I am way more interested in photographing your connection, joy, excitement, and love over any kind of pose and smile for the camera. Don’t get me wrong, there’s an art to that kind of work, it’s just not what I gravitate towards in my own work.
I want to help you remember what moments together felt like, not just what they looked like.
8. And now… a whole new landscape
This might be the most exciting thing I'm bringing to Duluth.
My camera. My experience. My love of people and stories.
And a completely new place to explore.
I'm still learning where everything is. I'm still discovering locations. I'm still figuring out where the best light hits and which places are magical at different times of year.
But that's okay.
Because I'm not here pretending I've known Duluth forever.
I'm here to get to know it.
And I can't wait to bring you along for the adventure.
If you're looking for a Duluth photographer who will help you through the process rather than simply hand you a camera and tell you to “pose,” I'd love to meet you.
I'm new to Duluth. But I'm bringing more than ten years of experience with me.
And I think that's a pretty good combination.
