BEAUTIFUL SORTA

Unusual. Quirky.  Unexpected. Non-traditional. Spontaneous. Real. Raw. Honest. As Is. Vulnerable. Truthful. Pure. Unpredictable. Authentic. 

Beautiful Sorta finds magic in the mundane and strives to memorialize each perfectly imperfect moment—every deliciously true slice of life.

THE CHILDHOOD MEMORIES I CHERISH MOST

aren’t the days spent at the sears photo studio in an itchy dress while my father pleaded with my sister and I to smile for the camera. They are the ones of my mother making us blueberry pancakes in the kitchen while singing her favorite Beatles tunes. My sister getting into a can of navy blue shoe polish as a toddler. (Picture that!) My father, in his favorite rocking recliner, listening to music he'd chronicled over the years on reel to reel tape decks.

These pictures are vivid in my mind, but how wonderful would it be if someone were there to capture them forever?

It would be sorta beautiful. 

SINCE BEAUTIFUL SORTA IS ABOUT BEING AS REAL AS POSSIBLE, THERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE FAMILY DOCUMENTARY STYLE OF PHOTOGRAPHY BEFORE YOU BOOK.

IT IS NOT MY GOAL TO CHANGE OR MANIPULATE SHOTS TO ALTER THEIR TRUE STATE AT THE TIME OF CAPTURE.

Yes, this means dirty dishes and dirtier children. But as I’m sure you’ve already seen and read — these truthful moments give birth to some truly amazing shots. 

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR FORMAL FAMILY SHOTS,

 like the look of everyone wearing coordinated colors, and consider yourself a perfectionist—documentary style may not be for you. Besides a few formals when you ask for them, my photos are never posed, and I do not style shots or use props. I always instruct my clients to wear their favorite pieces, no matter what. You’re all individuals and that should be celebrated. Being comfortable and being yourselves is key for a great shoot day. So if your daughter wants to wear her favorite unicorn tiara—Oh please let her do as her highness pleases.

I WILL ALSO SHOW UP VERY COMFORTABLE

As you will soon find out, I will get into some very awkward positions to capture the unique angles of your life. I’ve developed an affinity for sweatpants as well as an amazing sense of balance from climbing on all sorts of furniture. (Don't worry. I take my shoes off.)

YOU WILL GET AN AMPLE AMOUNT OF PHOTOGRAPHS

Family Documentary Photography isn’t about picking proofs, paying extra for selections, or watermarked photos. However many shots it takes to tell your story is what I want to give you, and what you'll get. And typically it’s more than the approximate amount—I promise.

YOU DON'T HAVE TO HAVE KIDS TO BE A FAMILY

This style of photography works for everyone. I'd love to shoot a day in the life for: Your grandparets, siblings, couples, singles, fur parents, you name it. Just ask.