My Story

I grew up in Corvallis, Oregon, surrounded by photographs. My mom beautifully documented our family and our travels in shelves full of photo albums, and I’m certain that’s where my love of photography began.

I took my first photography course as a freshman in high school—and, ironically, I hated it. I found the class dry and uninteresting, and I honestly don’t remember a single thing I learned. What I did discover, though, was how much I loved taking photographs. I began borrowing my mom’s camera whenever I could and filling photo albums of my own. Before long, I had my own camera to take on adventures.

Fast-forward to my freshman year of college, when I decided to give photography class another try. This time, everything clicked. My instructor was inspiring and encouraging, and I still remember the lessons, creative projects, and countless hours spent in the darkroom.

I began to understand the true power of photography during my first visit to the Folklife Festival in Seattle. The enormous crowds made me so anxious that I wanted to leave, but rather than abandon my friends, I pulled out my camera and began photographing the performers. Almost immediately, my anxiety faded. I found a sense of safety behind the lens and a different way to experience the world. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the crowd, I became captivated by the people within it— their expressions, their stories, and the moments unfolding around them.

I think that experience shaped the photographer I am today. Even now, some of my favorite images come from the moments between the posed shots. That's where the genuine smiles, laughter, connection, and real life live.

I live in the Portland, Oregon area with my family. When I'm not behind the camera, you'll usually find me at my other business, Sherwood Dance Academy, where I have the privilege of helping children discover confidence, connection, and joy through dance. Whether I'm in the studio or behind the lens, my passion is the same: celebrating people and the moments and connections that matter most.