After having a bad experience in front of a family photographer's camera, it is my mission to truly honor each person that is in front of my camera with enthusiasm and sincerity.  I want to see beyond what someone looks like and validate who that person is in a holistic way. Focusing on catching moments of honest connection between family members is key. I recently found out that kids who have family portraits displayed around their home have higher rates of self esteem and that makes me all the more motivated to keep doing this work! 

I'm Mary

hikes with my boys

horse therapy

happy parenting moments

Listening to music

Photography is truly incredible because it is a medium that can deeply connect people to one another. I had the honor of being mentored by the incredible documentary photographer Mary Ellen Mark and it changed my life. Witnessing how she directed her subjects was something I will never forget. She always held loving space and joy for anyone in front of her camera and wanted them to know how special they were. She really cared for them and that is how I try to treat anyone I have the honor of photographing - with dignity and unfettered attention.  I try to carry her spirit and insights with me always because I want to make her proud. 

I  am also super thankful that I was able to attend Art Center College of Design and get my Bachelor's Degree of Photography back in 2009- it was an incredible time to germinate. Life is not a straight line and I took some time off to focus on raising my kids.  I couldn't be happier to be back with my camera in my hands- celebrating people and showing them how unique and lovely they are. Being authentic to myself and coming back to photography means a lot to me because I strive to be a role model to my sons. I want them to know that with hard work and practice, they can follow their dreams and pursue a career in what lights them up. Thank you for being here and supporting my small business. I am SO excited to work with you, I truly mean it!