The NEW Newsletter
It’s been too long since we’ve chatted. I’ve missed you all!
Building connections with people is the main reason I love my job.
This new newsletter, “Sit, Stay, Smile,” will serve as a way to update everyone on all of the fun photo shoots, location scouting, and gallery shows I’ve recently been involved in.
First, a quick re-introduction
I’ve been doing this photography thing for a while now. I started with film (yep, the kind you had to develop in a darkroom), shooting weddings and learning how to tell stories with light and timing. Over the years, I’ve expanded my work to include portraits, seniors, kids, pets, families, corporate headshots, workplace photos, and fine art.
My philosophy? Sit, Stay, Smile.
Photography, for me, is never just about the shot. It’s about the feeling. The connection. The relaxed laugh that happens when you stop trying to pose. The way your dog tilts its head when you say a certain word. The confidence that sneaks in once you realize you’re actually kind of enjoying this.
People often tell me they hate having their photo taken or feel awkward or nervous.
I get it.
That’s why I create a space that’s easy, casual, and fun. No stiff posing. No pressure to be anyone other than exactly who you are. We’ll hang out, chat, and I’ll do what I do best—find the real moments and capture them honestly.
Along the way, I’ve also spent decades as a location scout, which means I know exactly how to find the perfect spots for your session. I understand light, season, mood, and atmosphere, and I always show up with a plan… and a backup plan. I manage the details, so all you have to do is show up and be yourself.
Still need senior portraits? It’s not too late!
Photographs of young people should feel authentic—not like someone standing in a weird pose in a field, wearing something they’d never normally wear.
I’m here to make sure senior portraits and kid sessions are the total opposite of awkward. This is their time to shine, and their moment to celebrate everything that makes them unique.
Kids of all ages are welcome to bring their skateboard, guitar, dog, favorite hoodie—whatever makes them feel most comfortable.
Dress it up or keep it casual. Everything about this experience is their call. They’re in the driver’s seat, and I’m just along for the ride with a camera (and some pretty great location ideas).
Location scouting: the right place at the right time
FAQ: What actually is location scouting?
The goal is to find a spot for photo shoots that looks awesome, fits the vibe you’re going for, and actually works in real life. I look for: good light, easy access—and make sure it’s a spot where no one will start yelling, “Get off my lawn!”
All jokes aside, location scouting has become a main part of my career as a photographer. If you are looking for a spot to shoot a video OR if you have a picture-perfect house that deserves to be in Hollywood, let me know!
News flash: Gallery spotlight
Beans & Barley has been an iconic destination of Milwaukee’s East Side since 1973! The world has changed since then, but this awesome spot remains a great place for everything from grocery shopping and gifts to fine dining and fine art.
I've been wanting to display my photography at Beans & Barley forever, and recently had the opportunity to do so! For this show, I chose to hang some of my cyanotypes.
Cyanotype prints are also known as sun prints. I turn my photographs into transparencies, then expose them using a UV light onto chemically treated paper, which produces this one-of-a-kind print. No two are the same.
Check them out below!
Make sure to add Beans & Barley to your list of local small businesses to visit!
Happy Halloween!
Like anyone else, my job is not my entire personality. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what I’ve been doing when I’m not behind the lens, shooting, or behind the wheel, scoping out locations.
I was never a theater kid or one who worked behind the scenes in school. So, I guess as a grown-up, I'm doing just that. Who knew I could play creepy so well?
I definitely creeped people out and got a few screams!
Thanks to my partner in spookiness, Sue Derby. I had a blast at her friend's Haunted Woods this month. This Halloween event in the woods, on private property, was incredible to say the least. The production value was top-notch.
In need of a creeper? Pick me!
In memory of Molly
One of my favorite things to do is photograph people’s pets. That said, I want to highlight the loss of my sweet pea, Molly.
We had to say goodbye to our pup the other morning—and as any dog lover will tell you, goodbyes to our furry friends are always the hardest! Molly had the best life, was spoiled (as all pets should be), and gave us unconditional love, laughs, comfort, and snuggles. She enjoyed the company of people more than dogs—maybe she was an introvert? She was a homebody and loved her people. When I came home, she would go bananas greeting me.
I loved this funny thing she did where she'd put her paws on my shoulders, when I was bent down, and nibble (gently!) on my ears. So silly! She was my mom's person first, then my stepdad, then me. Molly would sometimes sit down while walking and just take in the scenery. We never had a dog do that. She only played fetch with my stepdad. She was a huge cuddler, and when my mom got sick, Molly rarely left her side. She adjusted after my mom passed and carried my stepdad and me through the grief of losing my mom.
We had 15 years and 4 months with Molly. I grew up with dogs, and she was one of my faves. It felt like parts of Samantha, who preceded her, came through in Molly. Honestly, kinda magical! She was just the happiest pup. The neighbors always loved seeing her—even one of the neighbors wasn't a "dog person.” Two neighbor girls would knock on the door and ask if she could play. So sweet! I know Molly and my stepdad, Jim, got a kick outta that. She was the best and will be forever missed!
Thank you so much for taking a moment to sit and stay. Hopefully, this gave you something to smile about today!
