If you’re looking for a photographer who sees more than just the surface, someone who will take the time to understand you and your relationship, I’d love to work with you. Whether it’s an engagement shoot, a special date night, or simply capturing the beauty of everyday moments, the Japanese Gardens offer the perfect backdrop. Let’s tell your story together — one frame at a time.
In photography, especially in engagement and couples’ sessions, there’s something incredibly personal about being able to step back and observe people in their most authentic state. My introversion has allowed me to become an expert at this — seeing the small details, the subtle gestures, and the quiet moments that many might overlook. In a busy world where everything seems to move at lightning speed, the Japanese Gardens provide a calming influence, allowing both me and the couples I work with to slow down, take a breath, and enjoy the moment. This is where my perfectionism shines. The details are what matter most.
When working with couples, my approach is deeply personal. I don’t just want to capture a posed photograph — I want to tell the story of who they are. The Japanese Gardens offer a variety of settings, from quiet stone paths to picturesque bridges and koi ponds, that lend themselves to different storytelling opportunities. Each couple is unique, and so is every photo I take. My ADHD plays a role here, too — it keeps me agile, always looking for the next creative angle or spontaneous moment to capture. It’s not about being restless; it’s about seeing things others might miss and being quick enough to catch them before they slip away.
Engagement photography, for me, isn’t just about the perfect shot, but about capturing the emotion behind it. The Japanese Gardens have a way of bringing out the best in couples, encouraging them to relax and be themselves. Whether it’s the way the light hits at golden hour or the peaceful quiet of the early morning, the garden offers something special in every season. This ever-changing environment is a challenge for my perfectionist nature — and I love it. It keeps me on my toes, always striving to create something even better than before. It’s this drive for perfection that ensures my clients get photos that they’ll treasure for a lifetime.
And it’s not just engagement shoots that I love to capture here. While I specialize in couples and engagement sessions, family photoshoots also hold a special place in my heart. That said, I love working with couples who want to celebrate a special date night with a photoshoot. There’s something magical about turning an ordinary evening into a memory they can look back on forever. Whether it’s capturing the laughter during a playful moment or the quiet connection between two people in love, I aim to create a set of images that feel as unique as the people in them.
One of the best parts of working in a place like the Japanese Gardens is how easy it is to make each session feel different. No two shoots are ever the same because no two couples are the same. The gardens offer a perfect blend of nature and design that complements my own style of photography. As an introvert, I’ve learned to embrace my quiet observation skills, letting couples guide the session while I capture those fleeting, intimate moments. This has become part of my personal brand — the idea that, in a world that can sometimes feel chaotic, my photography offers a calm, centered, and deeply personal experience.
This balance between structure and spontaneity is what makes my work unique, and it’s what keeps my clients coming back. I’ve found that my introversion, once considered a weakness, is actually one of my greatest strengths in creating a brand that resonates with others. I don’t force moments; I let them happen organically, which allows me to create images that feel natural and unposed. The Japanese Gardens, with their peaceful energy, are the perfect partner for this approach.
People don’t just want a photographer; they want someone who understands them, who can capture the essence of their relationship in a way that feels true to who they are. By embracing my introverted nature, I’ve learned to listen more, observe more, and, in doing so, create better photos.
When couples come to me for a shoot, they’re not just getting a photographer who knows the technical aspects of the job; they’re getting someone who can make them feel seen, heard, and understood. I don’t just want to take pictures — I want to tell your story. That’s why I love working in the Japanese Gardens. It’s a place where stories come to life naturally, without the need for forced poses or artificial moments.
And as much as I love the quiet of the gardens, my ADHD keeps things exciting. I’m constantly exploring new ideas, angles, and techniques. My perfectionism ensures that no detail is left unnoticed, while my ADHD pushes me to always look for new ways to improve. It’s this combination of traits that allows me to offer a photography experience that’s unlike any other.
So, if you’re looking for a photographer who sees more than just the surface, someone who will take the time to understand you and your relationship, I’d love to work with you. Whether it’s an engagement shoot, a special date night, or simply capturing the beauty of everyday moments, the Japanese Gardens offer the perfect backdrop. Let’s tell your story together — one frame at a time.
For families, the Japanese Gardens offer various scenic spots perfect for creating lasting memories. Whether you're looking for a classic family portrait or a more candid, playful shoot, the gardens' versatile setting provides the perfect canvas. The blend of traditional Japanese elements with the natural beauty of Sioux Falls creates an atmosphere that’s both unique and timeless.