One of the things I love most about photography is getting to capture moments that go far beyond the surface. Take Lauren, for example. I’ve had the privilege of photographing her wedding and some other special moments, but this shoot was especially meaningful. We decided to do these Western portraits in the snow to celebrate something really personal—her sobriety. It was a beautiful reminder of how far she’s come and how strong she’s become. And honestly, getting out into the snow with a stunning backdrop like Mount Shasta just felt like the perfect way to mark that.

We started the day at my house, like we always do when we’re working on something a little more special. We spent some time chatting, picking out the perfect accessories for the shoot, and just catching up on life. I love these moments because it helps me understand who my clients are and what matters most to them. After an hour of talking, we hopped in the car and made the drive up to Mount Shasta. It’s about an hour and a half from my place in Redding, and it was a perfect winter day—snow everywhere, fresh and crisp. We laughed so much while we were shooting. The cold didn’t stop us; in fact, it kind of added to the whole vibe of the shoot. It was like we were both fully present in that moment—her strength, her joy, and the snow all coming together in these photos.

After we wrapped up in the snow, we went to Pipeline Craft Brewery for some food. If you’re in the Mount Shasta area, I highly recommend it. It’s one of those hidden gems that’s got great vibes and even better food. We were both starving by then, so we dug into some amazing dishes and just talked about how the day went. I don’t think we could’ve picked a better way to cap off such an important moment for her. Then, after dinner, we headed back into town, and she made her way back to Reno. The whole day felt like a celebration—not just of the beautiful portraits we took, but of her strength, her journey, and everything she’s worked so hard for.

This shoot wasn’t just about taking photos—it was about honoring a chapter in Lauren’s life. And that’s what I love about what I do. It’s not just about capturing pretty pictures, it’s about telling a story. If you’re in the Northern California or Reno area and you’re looking to celebrate something important in your life, whether it’s a milestone, a personal victory, or just because, I’d love to work with you. I’m now based in Redding, California, and I’m always looking for people ready to capture their stories, no matter what they’re celebrating. So if you’re ready for some Western-inspired portraits or anything else, get in touch—I’m ready to help tell your story, too!