A group of artists at Artist Village in Detroit

Celebrating Community and Creativity at JJ’s Homecoming Open Mic in Detroit

Charlotte Smith September 23, 2025

I recently had the privilege of photographing JJ’s Homecoming event and Open Mic in Detroit, a night that beautifully showcased the city’s thriving poetry and arts community.

A poet onstage at an Open Mic event in Detroit

A poet onstage during an Open Mic in Detroit at Artist Village

I’ve known JJ since our days at Central Michigan University, and I’ve always admired his ability to bring people together through art and storytelling. Originally from Detroit and now based in Baltimore as a teacher, JJ is an accomplished poet who continues to build creative communities wherever he goes. His recent book, Lessons I Never Taught (Marble Steps Publishing), has taken him on a tour, and this Detroit stop was a special homecoming.

A candid photo of poet RJMC at JJ's Homecoming and Open Mic at Artist Village in Detroit

A photo documenting poets signing up for Open Mic at Artist Village in Detroit

The event was held at Artist Village in Detroit, a vibrant space that set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Poets from across the community shared their work with passion and power, filling the room with energy and connection. In addition to capturing portraits and moments from the night, I was able to bring out my video-making skills to document the performances in motion.

A candid photo of a DJ at Artist Village in Detroit

SolFull Poetry onstage during an Open Mic at Artist Village in Detroit

As a Detroit event and portrait photographer, it’s always an honor to use my craft to highlight artists and their impact. In a time when arts funding is being cut at historic levels, it feels especially important to share the power of gatherings like these. Art has always endured—and nights like JJ’s Homecoming and Open Mic remind us just how vital creativity and community are to the soul of a city.

A poet onstage during an Open Mic at Artist Village in Detroit

An audience listens to a poet on stage during an Open Mic event at Artist Village in Detroit

A poet onstage during an Open Mic event at Artist Village in Detroit

Thank you, JJ, for inviting me to capture such a meaningful evening.

Video by me!

Music: Song: sumu - apart [NCS Release]
Music provided by: NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/apart
Watch: http://ncs.lnk.to/apartAT/youtube

A love letter to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

Charlotte Smith September 19, 2025

I just spent three days back in my hometown of Grand Marais, Michigan. After a year with a lot of loss and most recently the passing of my father, it felt grounding to return and tend to my roots. Growing up, I was so eager to leave the place I grew up. Yet now, there are moments when I ache to return—to wade into the cold water, wander the dirt roads, and feel the warmth of the sun on my back.

A photograph of an airplane flying above clouds in the evening at Grand Marais, MI

Photography has always been how I process this human experience. I can’t fully explain it, but it’s been with me since childhood. At 13, I would save the few dollars I earned picking up sticks in our yard or shoveling snow and spend them on a $5 disposable Kodak camera during our family grocery trips to Marquette. That small act of preservation—capturing what I saw and felt—still echoes through my work today.

A photograph looking down Agate beach, towards Grand Sable Dunes and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Grand Marais, MI

This trip reconnected me to those younger parts of myself, the ones who found comfort in the water, the dunes, and the sun. These landscapes are more than just scenery—they hold memory, healing, and belonging.

A photograph of sunlight reflecting on the sandy bottom of Lake Superior

A photograph of ferns and moss growing at an old logging spot in Grand Marais, MI

A photograph of dappled sunlight illuminating a pine tree and ferns in a forest in the Upper Peninsula

As I share these photos, I hope they serve as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of nature. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the Great Lakes (HOMES, as we learned in school), and all the wild spaces that sustain us deserve to be protected. They are more than backdrops to our lives—they are vital, living parts of our stories. Conserving them ensures future generations will also find the same peace, wonder, and connection that I continue to find each time I return home.

A photograph of clouds reflected in water at Grand Sable Lake, in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

A photograph of a percolator coffee pot on a camping stove in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

A photograph of ferns being illuminated in the woods of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

A photograph of new growth of pine trees in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

A photograph of the sunlight reflecting on water on Lake Superior

A photograph people silhouetted on shores of Lake Superior in Grand Marais, MI

A photograph of the sun reflecting on the waters of Lake Superior

A photograph of the Big Dipper and the northern light in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

Folkloric Mexican dance performance by women in colorful traditional dresses at MiHC Gran Fiesta, celebrating culture and community.

Gran Fiesta 2025: Honoring Scholars, Celebrating Futures

Charlotte Smith September 11, 2025

This year’s Gran Fiesta, hosted by the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative (MiHC), was more than just a celebration—it was a vibrant gathering filled with culture, pride, and community. As a photographer, I had the privilege of documenting this special event honoring MiHC’s high school scholars and college graduates.

A smiling high school graduate celebrates her college decision, pointing to a University of Michigan pennant at MiHC’s Gran Fiesta.

The Michigan Hispanic Collaborative, a Detroit-based nonprofit, is working to break the cycle of poverty through education and early career support. By helping Michigan’s first-generation and low-income students navigate the complexities of college access and career development, MiHC provides the resources, guidance, and community they need to thrive.

Event photography showing attendees at MiHC’s Gran Fiesta, celebrating Hispanic student achievement and community in Detroit.

Held at Michigan Central’s Newlab space in Corktown, the evening brought together students, families, and supporters to recognize the hard work and determination of MiHC scholars.

High school scholar celebrating graduation at Michigan Hispanic Collaborative’s Gran Fiesta, wearing “Class of 2025” glasses.

For high school scholars preparing to begin their college journey, Gran Fiesta was both a send-off and a reminder of what’s possible. It was a time to reflect on all they’ve accomplished and to look forward with excitement to the growth, discovery, and success that lie ahead.

Event catering by La Terraza at Michigan Hispanic Collaborative’s Gran Fiesta, serving food to celebrate students and community.

Event DJ providing music for Michigan Hispanic Collaborative’s Gran Fiesta, celebrating student achievement and community.

Participants trying on professional clothing at the wardrobe station during Michigan Hispanic Collaborative’s Gran Fiesta.

From the delicious food by La Terraza and the live music to the professional headshots and career wardrobe station, every detail of the celebration reflected both achievement and opportunity.

Students and participants trying on professional attire at Michigan Hispanic Collaborative’s Gran Fiesta wardrobe station, celebrating achievement and career readiness.

Attendees chatting, laughing, and celebrating together at MiHC’s Gran Fiesta in Detroit.

What stayed with me most, though, was the genuine warmth and kindness of everyone I met—the energy of the night made it such a joy to photograph. Beyond preparing their scholars for success, MiHC creates a true sense of community, celebrating the accomplishments of each individual.

Students celebrating and capturing memories with a selfie in front of the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative banner at Gran Fiesta.

Guests cheer and applaud during MiHC’s Gran Fiesta in Detroit, celebrating the achievements of high school scholars and college graduates.

Events like Gran Fiesta show the importance of visual storytelling—to honor hard work, capture milestones, and celebrate the bright futures ahead. Thank you to everyone who makes the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative possible, and to Jesús, Amanda, Jen, and Faith for inviting me to photograph such a heartwarming and inspiring event.

Charlie Engelman filming OddAnimalSpecimens in his creative studio space — Charlie Engelman at the University of Michigan Research Museums Center filming a moth for one of his videos for his social media channel OddAnimalSpecimens, which provides facts about the natural world.

OddAnimalSpecimens, Endless Curiosity, and possibly one of my Coolest Shoots Ever!

Charlotte Smith August 15, 2025

I recently had the pleasure of photographing Charlie Engelman, the creative mind behind the TikTok and YouTube channel OddAnimalSpecimens, as he was recognized by TIME Magazine as one of the TIME100 Creators—a list celebrating the most influential digital voices today.

If you haven’t seen OddAnimalSpecimens, it’s a fascinating series where Charlie shares quirky facts and debunks myths about the animal world. Since launching it five years ago, he’s built a loyal following—not because he’s trying to “teach” in the traditional sense, but because he sparks curiosity and inspires people to care about science.

Charlie Engelman searching the University of Michigan Natural History Museum's archives for a specimen to film for his Odd Animal Speciman Series — Charlie Engelman at the University of Michigan Research Museums Center looking through their collection of animal specimens to feature in his popular video series, OddAnimalSpecimens

Photographing him inside the University of Michigan Research Museum Center’s animal specimen collection was an unforgettable experience! Behind the doors is every kind of specimen you can imagine—rows and rows of preserved wonders. Walking through the hallways felt like stepping into a secret archive of the natural world.

Charlie Engelman poses in front of the University of Michigan Research Museums Center. An Ann Arbor native, Engelman films his popular social media series OddAnimalSpecimens at the research center, where he uses the expansive collection of animal samples stored.

Charlie looking off camera for a posed portrait with his camera while wearing the iconic blue gloves that are featured in his videos. — Charlie posing for a portrait with his trusty camera and iconic blue gloves.

Photographing Charlie wasn’t just about documenting a milestone—it was a reminder of why I love what I do. His passion for curiosity is contagious, and I left the shoot with a deeper appreciation for the quiet magic that happens behind closed museum doors.

A huge thank-you to Charlie—and congratulations on the incredible success of OddAnimalSpecimens!

Source: https://time.com/collections/time100-creators-2025/7299105/charlie-engelman/

Eastern Michigan University professor Tareq Khan poses for a candid portrait in a classroom on campus. — A portrait of Eastern Michigan University associate professor of electrical and computer engineering and computer and electrical engineering technology on the campus of EMU in Ypsilanti, Michigan.

Behind the Photo: Photographing Hope in the Face of Gun Violence →

Charlotte Smith July 24, 2025

I recently had the privilege of photographing Dr. Tareq Khan, a professor at Eastern Michigan University who has developed a powerful new gunshot detection system—an invention with the potential to save lives in classrooms and communities.

Photographing a story like this can be uniquely challenging. There aren’t always obvious visuals to lean on, and when dealing with a subject as heavy as gun violence in America, it’s crucial to strike the right tone. I wanted the portrait to feel grounded and serious, but also to convey a sense of hope—because that’s what Dr. Khan’s work represents: the possibility of a safer future.

As I scouted locations, I noticed a nearby computer lab with windows casting dramatic patterns of light across the space. The symbolism hit me immediately—light cutting through darkness. It felt like a visual metaphor for Khan’s work: a response to tragedy, moving toward a solution. With help we were able to gain access to the room and capture a few quick portraits.

In the above image, I positioned Dr. Khan looking toward the light—a subtle nod to hope, innovation, and forward momentum. I also chose a more reflective, subdued expression rather than a bright smile, in keeping with the weight of the subject matter.

You can read more about Dr. Khan and his work in The Sound of Science in Eastern Magazine.

Khan working with Mohammed Hagras (right), a junior electrical and computer engineering major is Khan’s project assistant.

Photographing Dr. Khan alongside his project assistant, Mohammed, in the classroom added another important layer to the story. It not only highlights the collaborative nature of the work but also shows that as a student at EMU, you have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking, real-world solutions—work that could one day save lives.

Khan's hands assembling the gunshot detection device.

In addition to the candid shots and portrait, I made sure to capture close-up shots of Dr. Khan working with the device itself—hands assembling, wiring, and testing components. These detailed images help bring the story to life by showing the human effort and precision behind the technology. Visually, they also add variety to the narrative by breaking up the wider and medium shots and creating a more dynamic, layered look at the work being done.

The audio-based device can detect gunshots within at least 40 feet.

Many thanks to the Communications team at Eastern Michigan University and Eastern Magazine for the opportunity to visually tell such an important story happening right here in our community!

Photography celebrating 100 Years of the Benzonia Library & Mills Community House!

Charlotte Smith July 9, 2025

A Century of Community: Celebrating 100 Years of the Benzonia Library & Mills Community House

This June, the Benzonia Public Library and Mills Community House marked an incredible milestone—100 years of serving the community! For a century, these two institutions have been at the heart of Benzonia, Michigan, providing not just books and resources, but a true sense of connection and belonging.

To celebrate, they hosted a charming old-fashioned strawberry social —complete with fresh strawberry shortcake, crafting for families and plenty of stories shared among friends and neighbors. It was the kind of event that made you feel like you’d stepped back in time in the best possible way.

I had the pleasure of photographing the celebration and capturing the joy, warmth, and community spirit that filled the day. From kids with sticky fingers to longtime residents reminiscing on a hot summer day on the porch, it was a beautiful reminder of what makes this place so special.

Here’s to another 100 years of community, conversation, and connection at the Benzonia Library and Mills Community House!

Couple walking hand-in-hand through Nichols Arboretum during engagement shoot — Golden hour magic as Brock and Sydney stroll through the peonies at Nichols Arboretum Peony Garden in Ann Arbor, MI.

A Surprise Engagement at Nichols Arboretum

Charlotte Smith June 26, 2025

It’s been a busy few weeks, but now that summer is in full swing and things are starting to slow down a bit, I’m excited to finally share some recent projects—including this long-overdue post! A few weeks ago, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Brock and Sydney’s engagement at the Peony Garden in the University of Michigan’s Nichols Arboretum here in Ann Arbor. The session was such a joy from start to finish!

Candid moment of Brock and Sydney laughing during outdoor engagement session — Sydney had so many laughs and so much fun during her engagement shoot with Brock at the beautiful Nichols Arboretum Peony Garden!

Brock reached out to me a couple of weeks ahead of time with his plan to surprise Sydney with a proposal. Both he and Sydney met while they were students at U of M, so the Peony Garden—especially during peak bloom—was the perfect place to pop the question. With a food festival happening downtown, they had the perfect excuse to spend the day in Ann Arbor, and Sydney didn’t suspect a thing.

Close-up of engagement ring with blooming rhododendrons in the background — Sydney’s beautiful engagement ring among the blooming rhododendrons at Nichols Arboretum.

I had to be extra sneaky with my camera so the surprise wouldn’t be spoiled—but everything went off beautifully! After the big moment, we spent about 30 minutes walking through the Arb and the gardens, soaking in the sunshine and excitement. I wanted to give them space to enjoy the moment naturally, so I captured many of the images from a distance using my Fujifilm 50-140mm f/2.8 and 50mm f/1.4 (an 80mm equivalent on my XT4 and XH2). The goal was to keep things relaxed and pressure-free so they could just be themselves and take it all in.

Romantic engagement photoshoot with natural garden backdrop in Ann Arbor — A sweet, quiet moment captured from afar as Brock and Sydney soak in the joy of being newly engaged.

A huge thank-you to Brock for finding me on Reddit and reaching out! Lately, I’ve had quite a few people book sessions after seeing my name recommended there, and I can’t say enough how much I appreciate the folks who’ve listed me—it’s made such a big difference. ❤️

Congratulations again, Brock and Sydney! It was such an honor to meet you both. And as a fellow Yooper, I loved hearing about Sydney’s family ties to the Upper Peninsula—so fun to talk about familiar places and shared roots.

Candid moment of Brock and Sydney laughing during outdoor engagement session with blooming peonies in the foreground

More summer stories and shoots coming soon—stay tuned!

Photographing with Heart at the Building Bridges Gala : My Approach to Nonprofit Events

Charlotte Smith June 11, 2025

Wide view of Ford Field set up for the Building Bridges Gala with elegant lighting and round dinner tables.

With a background in photojournalism—and a lifelong love for people and their stories—I’ve always been drawn to nonprofits. I truly believe they keep hope alive, especially in times like these, when critical programs across the country are being defunded.

I’ve worked for nonprofits in the past and volunteer with one today. The work is not easy. Budgets are tight, roles are stretched, and you’re constantly balancing the desire to help others with the hard reality that money often drives what’s possible.

Room setup for Pope Francis Center guests, showing bed, furnishings, and signage listing the cost of each item needed to furnish the space.

Since 2023, I’ve had the honor of freelancing for the Center, and this year marked my third time photographing their Building Bridges Gala. It’s one of the most thoughtfully produced and joyful events I’ve ever documented. The setting is stunning, the energy is contagious, and everywhere you look, people are smiling, connecting, and celebrating community. Every team member I’ve met is deeply committed to Detroit’s unhoused community—not just with care, but with real action. Their hearts are fully in the work, and that’s what makes them so successful.

Guests at the Building Bridges Gala chatting and smiling during cocktail hour in Detroit.

Screen showing a documentary about a Pope Francis Center guest sharing his experience with homelessness during the Building Bridges Gala.

Gala guest holding up their number associated with a donation at a fundraising table.

At events like this, my goal is to stay unobtrusive. I often shoot from a distance with my Fujifilm 50–140mm 2.8 lens, which allows me to capture authentic, candid moments. If people don’t notice I’m there, I consider that a success. I strongly feel that quiet observation often leads to the most genuine images. I don’t want to influence anyone to act a certain way because my camera is pointed at them. I want to capture who they truly are, their natural smiles and reactions to being in company with one another.

Close up shot of Father Tim smiling and talking with a guest during the Building Bridges Gala

A close up shot of Jim Vella smiling and laughing at the Building Bridges Gala

Pamela Alexander smiling and hugging a guest at the Building Bridges Gala

Candid photograph of guests taken from a distance, highlighting natural interactions.

Guests at the Building Bridges Gala removing their shoes to kick a field goal on the turf at Ford Field.

Guests at the Building Bridges Gala using their phone to document another guest kicking a field goal on the turf at Ford Field.

Another thing I love about the 50–140mm is how well it captures the small details that help tie the story together and give viewers a glimpse of what it felt like to be there.

Close-up of a centerpiece on a table at the Building Bridges Gala dinner table.

A close up shot of shoes on the turf of ford field at the building bridges gala

But my go-to, and honestly probably favorite lens in my kit is Fujifilm’s 35mm 1.4 (50mm equivalent on my cropped-sensor Fujifilm XT4 and XH2). It’s perfect for portraits and details—close enough to feel intimate without being intrusive.

Candid moment of guests laughing and enjoying the program at the fundraising gala.

A medium shot of purses, shows and blazers on the turf of ford field.

Wide view of people posing for a photo on Ford Field, set up for the Building Bridges Gala taken from the turf.

A wide shot of a guest holding up their number, making a donation while the auctioneer calls out their number.

I’ve also been learning to embrace my 16mm for wide shots. Composing wide frames used to be a challenge, but this lens has taught me to welcome the visual busy-ness and find beauty in the full scene.

A wide shot of guests mingling at the Building Bridges Gala

A wide shot of a person holding up their auction number during the building bridges gala at Ford Field

Thank you again to the Pope Francis Center for inviting me to be a part of this important work. Documenting your mission and sharing the stories of this community is a true honor. I’ve learned so much about the challenges Detroit’s homeless population faces—and about the real, meaningful efforts it takes to create lasting change.

Behind the Lens at the A2SO Season Finale!

Charlotte Smith May 28, 2025

A photograph of an orchestra onstage shot with a wide angle lens framed with interior lighting

What a way to wrap up the 2024–2025 season! The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s season closer, led by Music Director Earl Lee, was a powerful and moving experience. Lee took the podium to conduct an incredible program featuring musica pyralis by Katherine Balch and Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 5—a beautiful way to end the season.

A photograph of the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra onstage during their May MainStage

This performance also marked a personal milestone: my first time photographing inside the historic Hill Auditorium! The venue is absolutely stunning, offering so many unique angles and perspectives—including a rare opportunity to shoot from behind the stage, which allowed me to capture forward-facing shots of the conductor in action.

A photograph of conductor Earl Lee onstage during a concert performance.

A photograph of musicians onstage looking at sheet music during a concert.

A behind the scenes photograph showing the musicians onstage and the audience listening at Hill Auditorium

Following the concert, I had the chance to attend the Afterglow, a special gathering for donors and season subscribers. It’s a wonderful tradition that allows attendees to connect with the orchestra’s musicians and staff in a more relaxed and intimate setting.

A woman smiling in the audience while attending the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Afterglow

Conductor Earl Lee holding a microphone and speaking to an audience during the Afterglow for the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra

A heartfelt thank you to everyone at the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, especially marketing director Willie Cornish, who so kindly responded to my first email weeks ago and gave me the opportunity to photograph the last MainStage concerts for the season. I’m so excited to continue documenting the magic when the new season begins in September!

Source: www.charlottesmithphoto.com

Celebrating Emma's Graduation with a Special Portrait Session

Charlotte Smith May 2, 2025

I had the pleasure of capturing Emma’s graduation portraits at the University of Michigan, taking a mix of classic shots in the busy Law Quad and more intimate moments in quieter spots around campus. With her perfect outfit and my trusty Fujifilm, we created simple yet nostalgic photos that she’ll cherish and share with friends and family.

Capturing the Magic - Capturing Magic: April MainStage with the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra

Charlotte Smith April 22, 2025

A candid photo of the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra — The Michigan Theater was the perfect backdrop for such a stunning performance. It’s one of my favorite venues to photograph, with its rich textures, vintage charm, and especially the vibrant energy behind the scenes. There’s just something about being backstage that brings the whole experience to life in a different way.

On April 5th, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s April MainStage concert. It was an unforgettable night of music, led by guest conductor Andrew Grams and featuring the remarkable Kate Liu—medalist at the 17th International Fryderyk Chopin Competition—making her Ann Arbor debut.

A close up candid photo of a pianist with her hands on the keys - event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

A wide photo of pianist Kate Liu on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

A close up, candid photo of guest conductor Andrew Grams on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

A candid photo of the audience taking their seats at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

A candid photo of pianist Kate Liu on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

A close up of a musician on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

A candid photo of an audience applauding at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra — Huge thanks to Willis and Kemper at A2SO for continuing to trust me with capturing these special moments. I’m so grateful to be part of telling your story through images.

A candid photo of a people with a slow shutter speed outside of the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

Turning the Page on March: A Look Back at My Favorite Photohoots

Charlotte Smith April 1, 2025

Candid moment of a birthday celebration in Romulus, MI, captured by a Michigan event photographer. Charlotte Smith

With a new month underway, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on some of my favorite photoshoots from March! It was a whirlwind of a month—leaving my full-time role as a photographer at Ford Motor Co., meeting with new clients, handling vendor paperwork, and laying the groundwork for exciting opportunities ahead. It’s been a lot of work, but I’m eager to see what the coming weeks and months will bring.

Through all of these changes, I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my friends and family. Their encouragement has meant the world to me during this transition.

One particularly special moment from March was photographing a surprise birthday party for my dear friend Ed in Romulus, MI. Ed is like family to me—a father figure I deeply respect—and it was an honor to capture this celebration put together by his amazing wife, Stephanie. Seeing the pure joy on his face as his loved ones surprised him was unforgettable.

Here are some of my favorite images from the event—moments that truly capture the excitement, love, and laughter shared that night.

Emotional reaction as a guest walks into a surprise birthday party, captured in documentary-style photography by Michigan Event Photographer Charlotte Smith

Source: charlottesmithphoto.com/blog1

Ducks and Armenian Coffee

Charlotte Smith March 29, 2025

An editorial style photograph of Armenian Coffee sitting on a table in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Jeff and I are duck-sitting for a neighbor while he’s in Turkey for a week vacation. He has the most extensive collection of coffee and tea cups, so we treated ourselves to them and made some Armenian coffee while hanging out with our feathered friends.

A candid, editorial photograph documenting a backyard farm filled with ducks in Ann Arbor Michigan

Portraits with Dr. Hanan and Life Update!

Charlotte Smith March 20, 2025

After over 10 years of working in a traditional setting, I’ve made the exciting decision to dive into freelancing full-time! It was a big choice, and honestly, a little scary, but I’m trusting my gut and going for it. Photography has always been my passion, especially telling stories through emotive imagery. The trust that clients place in me to capture their moments and tell their stories is one of the greatest compliments I could receive. I’m thrilled to pour my energy and focus into this new chapter and look forward to the adventures and opportunities that lie ahead.

All that said - I’m also so excited to share some recent work from a fun portrait session with Dr. Hanan Alhaddi at Detroit Perk, an incredible coffee shop and community hangout in Dearborn Heights. Hanan reached out to me needing new portraits for an upcoming book, speaking engagements, conferences, and additional images to help build her personal brand in consulting.

Hanan, thank you so much for trusting me to capture these images! It was a pleasure working with you, and I can't wait to see where your journey takes you.