Capturing Culture & Creativity:
My Photography Blog - Explore recent projects, photography tips, and behind-the-scenes insights as I use photography to share my culture and uplift Native stories, voices, artists, and more.
Roots in Motion Utah Indigenous Fashion Week 2026 Promo Shoot
Roots in Motion was created to promote the 2026 Utah Indigenous Fashion Week and honors the shared movements of Indigenous peoples worldwide. This shoot brought together an Indigenous creative team, expressive movement, warm light, and personal storytelling, including the tulle skirt I made at sixteen with my grandma.
Behind the Scenes at Fiamma Ristorante
Shooting at Fiamma Ristorante in Charlotte NC reminded me why I love blending fashion and food photography. Their cocktails are full of personality, their dishes are unforgettable, and the team pours real heart into everything they create. It was a night filled with style, flavor, and so much creativity.
Rooted in Fire Is Here! And I Got To Photograph the Cover
Chef Pyet’s debut cookbook, Rooted in Fire, is officially out, and I had the honor of photographing the cover. We created a vibrant dinner party concept that reflects her love for cooking as an act of service and connection. Now the final cover, filled with warmth and color, is on shelves in bookstores across the country.
My MOB Magazine Interview and Cover Feature: Exploring Story, Heritage, and Modern Fashion
In MOB Magazine’s November 2025 issue, I had the honor of both photographing the Sculpted Muse cover story and sharing my perspective in an in-depth interview. I talked about the cultural roots that shape my work, the collaborations that pushed my creativity, and the direction I hope to take my photography in the coming years.
Courage on the Big Screen at The Autry
I booked a last minute JSX flight to Los Angeles so I could be there for An Evening of Indigenous Cinema at The Autry. As a producer on Courage, being in the room, taking photos, and supporting our team made the trip worth it. The night featured three Indigenous short films, a thoughtful conversation led by Bird Runningwater, and a hoop dance that closed the evening beautifully.
Behind the Scenes: Earth the Workshop by Cara Mia
Behind the scenes of Earth the Workshop felt like stepping into a living mood board, where every creative poured their heart into bringing a vision to life! Here’s a peek at the magic that happens when community, creativity, and intention meet.
Art Department for Chamber Media’s Holiday Commercials
Working with Chamber Media again felt like coming full circle. I handled the art department for a series of holiday commercials, balancing high-end resort aesthetics with budget-friendly set design. From Christmas to Valentine’s Day, each detail was chosen for impact without being over the top.
Courage at the First-Ever Lone Peak Film Festival
Attending the first Lone Peak Film Festival with Courage was unforgettable. I not only learned and connected with other storytellers but also discovered family ties, enjoyed powerful films, and felt surrounded by love and support.
Senior Puppy Portraits with Buck
Before Buck’s passing, I had the honor of capturing senior puppy portraits for him and his owner, Audrey. From cuddles on a blanket to quiet moments in the park, the session was filled with love and tenderness. Photography is powerful in moments like these, preserving the bond we share with our pets long after they’re gone.
Photographing the Debut of Courage at Jon Batiste’s Salt Lake City Concert
Abraham Thomas opened Jon Batiste’s Salt Lake City concert with the first live performance of Courage, the song from our short film. And I photographed both Abraham’s debut and Jon’s lively set, documenting a night filled with music and unforgettable moments!
Fashion Brand Photography for Peppermayo June 2025 by Emmerson Studios
When Peppermayo reached out to me for a brand photography collaboration, I was so happy to bring their June 2025 fashion collection to life with creative styling and editorial-level visuals. Here's how we told their story through stunning locations and scroll-stopping content.
Beauty, Bias, and the Need for Better Industry Standards
I joined makeup artist Heather Nitta in a bold fashion shoot that challenged Utah’s lack of diversity and age inclusion in the beauty world. We were later featured on ABC4 Utah to share the deeper message behind the campaign.
Lured InFashion Editorial with Marin | Shot at the Great Salt Lake
In the middle of the day under the harsh Utah sun, I used my portable flash to create studio-quality light outdoors for an editorial fashion shoot styled by Marin. Here's how I balanced natural light, portable gear, and creative vision for our dreamy series, “Lured In.”
My Favorite Tips for Beginner Models
Ever wonder what makes certain models a photographer’s favorite to work with? I’ve worked with countless creatives, and these five tips are the traits that keep me calling models back for more projects!
My Favorite Photo Studios in Salt Lake City
As a professional photographer and commercial producer, I’ve worked in so many different studios around Salt Lake City. These five stand out as my all-time favorites—clean, creative, and packed with everything I need for a smooth, beautiful shoot. Whether you’re planning a fashion editorial, branding session, or portraits, these are the spaces I can’t recommend enough.
A Rose Garden Wonderland: Editorial Shooting in Portland, Oregon
On a creative photography trip to Oregon, we captured whimsical, high-fashion moments in one of the most breathtaking rose gardens in the world. This is the behind-the-scenes of how it all came together.
The Fastest Photoshoot I’ve Ever Done… Inside a Las Vegas Casino
What do you get when you mix a vintage dress, a hidden flash, and a Vegas casino that doesn’t allow professional photography? The fastest, most chaotic, and surprisingly successful fashion shoot I’ve ever done. In this blog, I share how I pulled off a spontaneous 15-minute photoshoot with my model friend Gloria, dodging security while chasing grungy-glam shots in the heart of the Strip.
How to Plan a Photoshoot Like a Pro (or with One!)
Planning a photoshoot? Whether it’s for your brand, website, or a personal project, this guide walks you through the steps to bring your vision to life—from defining your purpose to creating a shot list and choosing the perfect location. Let’s make the creative process easy, inspiring, and efficient.
Honoring our Traditions While Boldly Creating What’s Next | Photographing Utah Indigenous Fashion Week
Photographing Utah Indigenous Fashion Week 2025 was an unforgettable experience. From the stunning venue to the powerful designs on the runway, this event celebrated Indigenous identity, diversity, and artistry!
My Favorite Outdoor Photo Locations in Utah
Utah’s landscapes are as dramatic as they are beautiful, and they make for some of the most unique photo backdrops in the country. In this post, I’m sharing my favorite outdoor photo locations across Utah, complete with tips, Google Map pins, and behind-the-scenes insight from a local Indigenous photographer and creative based in Salt Lake City.