Tiana is such a gem. She has the happiest energy, the best laugh, and is always an absolute joy to photograph. I swear, every time we get together, we end up laughing way more than we probably should.

But this session was extra special because Tiana and I go way back.

I first met her when she was a teenager, when I had the privilege of mentoring her for her senior project. She chose photography as her subject, and somewhere along the way, that little project turned into a genuine passion and eventually a photography business of her own.

And now? I am SO freaking proud of her.

Watching someone you met as a teenager grow into a talented creative, build a business, and pursue something they genuinely love is pretty cool. Tiana has created a beautiful photography business for herself, and I love seeing her continue to grow and find her own style.

She’s also just a genuinely lovely human. She has a good heart, cares deeply about people, and brings so much joy into the spaces she occupies. I think those qualities show up in her work, too.

So naturally, I was thrilled when she asked me to photograph some branding portraits for her business.

We headed out into Siskiyou County and photographed Tiana doing what she loves most, camera in hand and out exploring. I love branding sessions like this because they don’t have to feel like stiff headshots or overly polished business portraits. Sometimes the best way to show what you do is simply to do it.

Having photos of yourself actually working in your craft tells a much bigger story.

For Tiana, that meant her camera, the outdoors, movement, and lots of personality. We captured images that feel like her rather than generic “photographer branding photos,” and that’s exactly what I wanted.

And of course, we laughed. A lot.

I think that’s one of my favorite things about photographing people I’ve known for years. There’s no awkward “getting to know you” phase. We can just hang out, create some beautiful images, and inevitably make each other laugh until our faces hurt.

Tiana, it has been such a joy watching you grow from that photography-loving teenager I once mentored into the talented photographer and business owner you are today. I am so proud of you and so excited to see where you take this.

Keep doing your thing, friend. You’re pretty damn wonderful. 🤍📷