natural, candid family photography rooted in light, love & human connection
“Kelly is by far the most professional, talented, creative, artistic and overall amazing photographer we’ve ever worked with. She brings out the best in her subjects and her work is masterful.”
family & brand photographer based in santa barbara
light-inspired family photography & imagery for creative, women-run brands
honest, artful, soft, unscripted, organic,
dreamy
, relaxed
, emotive,
intimate, heartfelt, timeless
It happens so fast. Watching them grow before your eyes. Blinking, worrying you’ll miss it. You know the saying, The days are long, but the years are short.
I’m here to hit the pause button for you — to observe the way you connect, the way you touch, what’s real for you in this messy, gorgeous, fleeting stage of your little ones’ lives.
If you’re looking for a mini session or “just one shot” for a holiday card, I’m not your photographer. My sessions offer the gift of time — the time it takes to truly see and connect with your family.
We’ll have fun together, and most likely (thank you, Santa Barbara) find ourselves bathed in beautiful, golden light. You’ll walk away with a time capsule of candid, artistic images — images I hope make you feel as much as they make you smile, and maybe even inspire your own creative spirit.
“Kelly is invested in her craft and the families she shoots. It’s a passion, and passion always translates to beauty. Her photos are instant heirlooms that will continue to document the most meaningful relationships for generations.”
serving santa barbara, montecito, carpinteria, goleta and beyond
Brand Photography
I create custom photography packages for creative, women-run brands looking to elevate their visual storytelling and online presence.
Whether you’re a retail shop, clothing line, stylist, blogger, interior designer, wellness practitioner — or any other creative in between — and whether you’ve been in business for years or are just dreaming it up, I’ll help your brand look as authentic, polished, and compelling as it deserves.
Hi, I’m Kelly
I’m a photographer — but a mother first. Photographing my own children is what first drew me to this work, and it shapes every session I create.
I was born in Idaho in the last hour of Cancer, raised on the beach in North County San Diego, and Santa Barbara has been my home for more than 20 years. I love country music, summer in the mountains, my morning sculpt class, golfing, pickleball, shooting pool, camping, gardening, wildflowers, and trying new recipes. I’m drawn to neutral tones, a well-considered home, and a thoughtful, understated wardrobe. I love one cup of coffee each morning, more than one Aperol Spritz, and cozy TV nights on the couch.
I have a son and two daughters (25, 22, and 15), plus three cats, a pup, and two guinea pigs — they’re all part of the family too. After my husband passed away unexpectedly in 2025, my children and I have been moving forward gently, creating a new sense of normal together.
My work is rooted in capturing honest, fleeting moments—the quiet glances, the subtle touch, the deep connection that defines your family. I create images that feel as much as they are seen, and that you’ll return to for years to come.
Thank you for being here and allowing me to step into your family during a tender time in my own. It is truly an honor.
Picture of me and my youngest in NYC by Amanda Petersen.
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