I’ve always been selective about what I share, especially when it comes to the more personal and difficult parts of my story. While I’m comfortable connecting with others in many ways, there are pieces of my life that I’ve kept close, unsure if they fit within the joyful narrative I strive to create through my work. But as I’ve grown, I’ve realized that true artistry comes from authenticity, even when it means embracing the parts of ourselves that aren’t as joyful. (And yes, you can thank my love of Brené Brown books for that epiphany—if you know, you know.) Inspired by those lessons, I’ve decided to share more of my story and reflect on how it has shaped both who I am and the way I capture life’s most meaningful moments.

I don’t often talk about my childhood —it’s a part of my life that I’ve chosen to keep separate from my work because my business is a source of pure joy for me, right along side my incredible husband and literally any animal I meet. But as I reflect on my journey, I’ve realized how much the challenges I’ve faced have influenced the way I approach my craft and connect with others.

Life wasn’t always easy growing up, and those early experiences taught me to be highly observant—tuned into the smallest shifts in tone and the quiet details that often spoke louder than words. What once felt like a survival skill has become one of my greatest strengths: the art of noticing. This ability to deeply connect with people and moments allows me to capture fleeting expressions and meaningful glances that might otherwise go unnoticed. Born from challenge, this gift has become one of the most valuable tools in my life and work.

Weddings are magical—they’re filled with love, laughter, and moments of pure connection. They’re also a bit bittersweet for me. Witnessing families uplift and support one another, seeing love in its most beautiful and genuine form, often leaves me in awe. But if I’m honest, it’s also something I’ve sometimes longed for in my own life.

It’s a delicate mix of emotions, standing behind the camera, documenting the kind of love that so many people dream of. On one hand, I feel honored to be invited into such intimate moments, where love is celebrated without reservation. On the other, it’s a quiet reminder of what I didn’t experience growing up and still don’t have to this day.

Finding Light in the Lessons We Least Expect

But over the years, I’ve found peace and even gratitude in this juxtaposition. While I may not have had that kind of support or connection in my early years, I’ve built a life that’s filled with love in so many other ways. And being able to capture these moments for others feels like a way of celebrating and honoring love itself—a gift I never take for granted.

Through the years, I’ve worked hard to grow, heal, and create a life that feels full of light and love. That process has shaped not only who I am as a person but also the way I approach photography. I see my work as a way to celebrate joy, beauty, and connection—to honor the love and moments that make life meaningful.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the hardest chapters of life don’t define us—they shape us. They teach us resilience, compassion, and the importance of holding onto joy. Those lessons are at the heart of everything I do as a photographer. When I capture a fleeting smile, a quiet moment, or the bond between two people in love, I’m reminded of the beauty that exists even in a world that isn’t always kind.

To anyone reading this who has faced their own challenges: know that your story has power, and the lessons you’ve learned can become your greatest strengths. For me, photography is my way of creating something beautiful out of those lessons—a way to honor love, connection, and the light in life.

Thank you for letting me share this piece of my heart. I hope it inspires you to find beauty in your journey, too.

Alison