Hi there, and welcome to my little corner of the internet! I’m so glad you stopped by. I’m a lifestyle photographer based right here in Grand Forks, North Dakota & East Grand Forks, Minnesota—where wide-open skies, cozy community moments, and the beauty of everyday life inspire my work behind the camera. Whether it’s golden hour on the prairie, family laughs in downtown Grand Forks, or quiet moments at home, I’m here to capture the stories that matter most. This blog is a space to share recent sessions, photography tips, and the little joys that make life in North Dakota truly special.
I am so glad you are here. This blog is something I have been about for a while along with photography in general - this is a space where I can share the stories, behind the photos, offer tips for your sessions, and hopefully inspire you to see the beauty in your own everyday life.
I have always been drawn to photography, not just the kind that poses and smiles (though there is magic in those too) but the kind that feels real. The kind where a toddler is laughing so hard they can't keep their eyes open. The kind where dad absentmindedly reaches for his child's hand. The kind where a family is mid-snack, mid-mess, mid-life - and its perfectly imperfect.
That's lifestyle photography - its not about perfection, its about presence.
In my sessions I focus less on the stiff posing (but don't worry we get those posed smiling shots too) and more on connection. I want the people I photograph to feel comfortable and like themselves, not a polished curated version, but the genuine, messy, magical reality of who they are.
What you will find on this blog:
Session Stories - The behind-the-scenes moments from recent shoots, and the little things I notice that don't always make it to the final instagram post
Tips for Families - How to prepare for your session, what to wear, how to keep kids engaged, etc
Personal Reflections - Thoughts on motherhood, connection, creativity, and what photography means to me
Thanks for stopping by - and I hope you will come along for the ride.
Carly
Want to book a session with me?
