Hi, I’m Shawna, a Berkeley based portrait, family, and wedding photographer. Shooting both digital and film, my work blends documentary, lifestyle, and editorial photography. My dad gave me my first camera when I was seven. We would go on photo walks together growing up which started my love of photography and capturing the beauty in the world around me. I was always the person friends would ask to take their photos; this and my love for the craft led me to study photography at Portland State University before turning it into my full-time work.

With a background in early childhood education, I spent many years working closely with children and families at a Montessori school in Berkeley. That experience shapes the way I approach family sessions with a calm, intuitive, and flexible approach that helps everyone feel comfortable and allows space for children to be themselves.

My sessions are thoughtfully paced and warmly guided so you can relax into the experience while I take care of the rest.

Outside of photography, I enjoy playing music, planting in the garden, vintage shopping, designing and making things, watching movies, cooking, and time spent laughing with friends. I’m drawn to anything creative, hands-on, and a little bit nostalgic; all of which keeps me inspired.

My goal is to create images that feel personal, timeless, and true to you, along with an experience that feels easy and fun.