Its me - Jane! - Your Arizona Travel Wedding Photographer

Hello! I can’t believe that after 16 years as a photographer I have finally committed to maintaining a blog. This blog is going to be all about my incredible wedding couples and sharing more of their day that won’t be confined to Instagram limitations. As you’ll soon discover, I don’t love posting about myself- although now that I have kids, you’ll definitely see them pop up in my Instagram stories most days. I wanted to start this blog off with an introduction so you can get to know the lady behind the lens a bit, see who I am, and the family I’m fortunate to be a part of. I’m going to answer some of the most common questions I get when I first meet my couples below, and please feel free to shoot me a note if you want to chat more!

Why photography? What do I LOVE about it??

Like a lot of teenagers, I discovered photography back in high school. I have always loved art and science and there was something magical about the dark room that combined those two subjects.  I had an amazing teacher who encouraged me to pursue it in college, where I attended a photography school and got my degree in Fine Arts. I loved taking the time and care to plan a shoot, then see it come to life before my eyes in the dark room.  I love light and using it in unconventional ways. I love that I can anticipate a moment, or an expression before they even happen. I have always been an observer, shy as a kid and always curious about everyone around me. Photography, especially weddings and couples, opened a door into meeting and creating art with some of the most wonderful people. I will always appreciate the life long friends and connections this business has given me. I love that there will never be a time when I am not learning and growing as an artist, it is a profession that is never stagnant.

Favorite place to photograph?

I get this question a LOT. And honestly, I don’t have one specific venue or location that is the favorite. I love shooting in the desert, mountains, and nature, and Arizona has so many amazing venues. I also love to travel, so photographing in a brand-new location, somewhere I haven’t shot before, is exciting and fresh and will always get the creative juices flowing.

What kind of camera gear?

I use Canon cameras and Canon lenses. At every wedding I bring two cameras that I have on each hip and half a dozen lenses. I’ll bring two flashes, plenty of flashcards and batteries. Whenever a non-professional photographer asks me what type of camera they should buy I tell them- it’s about the lenses, invest in the lenses!! And then practice. That’s the key to everything.

Is there a lot of directing during photos?

For me, I love to find the best light. The best composition. Then get you into my frame! From there, I direct as needed. I give more prompts of things to do than stiff poses to get into. I want you to feel comfortable, and like the best version of yourself. That means we are going to have fun! So yes, there is direction throughout the whole shoot, but in a way that lets you be YOU, and I take care of the rest.

What do I do outside of photography?

I am so lucky to have an amazing support system of a family and friends. Kyle is an absolute dream husband, and we have two adorable kiddos Leo and Vivien. We enjoy a lot of family time exploring the kids interests and our own. Both of our immediate families live in town, so we get to spend quality time with them as well. I have a fun set of girlfriends that I hang out with whenever possible to recharge my batteries and have a glass of bubbles. I love to run, hike, and read for my personal time. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, we will probably be best friends. Kyle and I love going out to eat and trying new restaurants, so feel free to share any great places we need to hit up. We love to travel and Kyle and I have been to 9 countries together, more individually, and are always adding new locations to our map pinboard. I will enjoy any cute dog video you send me. Post-wedding days you will find me snuggling my babies at home and enjoying this crazy chapter of life.

Photos of me by Becca with nhiyakayephotography.com