My name is Grace. I started my photography journey back in spring of 2019, but I took a hiatus for about a year because of burn out and feeling lost in the sea of the photography industry.

So here was my struggle and why I felt depleted: I pursued a specific way of editing my photos that I know would attract a larger crowd. I forced myself to be super extraverted even though I’m super shy and an introvert who love one on one conversations. The industry started to feel like guardrails that fenced me in and strangely influenced my art to match its expectations by always needing the perfect shot, the best clients, the best clothes, to even the best poses. I essentially lost myself and my why because I was so focused on what I thought photography should be or how others perceived it to be. Even though I love taking photos and editing them to my own liking, photography soon became a job instead of a joy as I tried fitting into these other molds that weren’t me. So I needed to take a break to rediscover this passion of mine.

Now, I’ve found my why: My time of rest away from my camera and art helped me to plant roots in what I do to make sure that it was sturdy enough to build the foundation of my photography. It gave me time to seriously think about why I do what I do. Here’s what I found. Photography is not just about forcing intimate moments. It is inviting beauty and intimacy. I just want to be an artist that helps people to hold onto the real beautiful moments that have been there way before I have. I’m simply opening up a space for people to feel connected and real.

So here’s my approach now: I want my work to reflect authenticity by having more unscripted moments of movement and storytelling. I’m going to take more intentional time on building relationships with my clients to understand their story and find unique aspects in retelling it through photos. The key difference between my photography then and now is connection. I want to accurately depict beautiful images that compliment my clients instead of forcing them to fit the mold of what photography should “be” or “feel” like. There is going to be more communication and brainstorming behind the shoots to intentionally capture stunning images.

I love cinema that has moody filmy vibes and artistic composition. Here’s what I find creatively inspiring:

Film: Start Up (korean drama), A Haunting of Hill House, This Is Us, Go Back Couple, Lord of the Rings, and The Arrival.

Words: authentic, genuine, beautiful, unscripted, nostalgic, natural, intimate, vulnerable, the in-between, and storyteller.

You value the natural moments of life and simply love photography for it’s documenting nature. It’s important for me that there are no expectations or standards for what photography should or shouldn’t be. Each story is uniquely different. Each shot captures different emotions. Each couple, family, or client have different personalities. I will do my best in delivering consistent timeless images to my client, however I work the best creatively when there are no strict standards. This is the best way for me to serve you and other clients. I want to make sure that I deliver the best out of the best to each client.

I am blending editorial and documentary. I will still direct all my clients. There’s going to be editorial photos where I pose clients that look aesthetic. There will also be some unposed and unscripted moments (my favorite) that give photos personality. This looks like moving from one location to another with couples holding hands or children running around being themselves. I welcome all types of movement so that all photos don’t feel unnatural!