Like many photographers, my story starts with picking up a camera in high school, but it didn’t stop there. I fell in love with the process, the people, and the way photography could freeze emotion.
After earning a degree in business, I went on to complete a second degree in photography from Villa Maria College. In 2016, I took a leap and went all-in on this career full time — a scary decision that quickly turned into one of the best choices I’ve ever made.
Photography has given me a front-row seat to connection in its rawest, most honest form. The quiet moments, the chaotic ones, and the in-between glances that often mean the most. That’s what keeps me coming back.
and I'm really glad you're here.
Oh hey, I'm Stephanie.
If you’re taking the time to look through my work and learn a little more about me, I don’t take that lightly. Choosing someone to document your life, especially the big, emotional, once-in-a-lifetime moments, that's a big deal. I’m honored you're here!
How I got here (the short version)
What it's like to work with SMW Photography
I don’t expect perfection. I don’t ask you to perform. I care far more about how something feels than how it looks.
I treat my clients like family because I genuinely care — about your comfort, your story, and the experience you walk away with, not just the final images.
I treat my clients like family because I genuinely care — about your comfort, your story, and the experience you walk away with, not just the final images.
I’m a self-proclaimed nerd who thrives behind the camera. I’m sarcastic, thoughtful, a little awkward in the best way, and very aware that most people don’t love being photographed — which is exactly why I approach things the way I do.
Clients often tell me how laid-back and calming I am, and that’s no accident. I believe your photo experience should feel relaxed, and stress-free. I keep communication super open, guide you when you need it, and give you space to just be yourselves.
Clients often tell me how laid-back and calming I am, and that’s no accident. I believe your photo experience should feel relaxed, and stress-free. I keep communication super open, guide you when you need it, and give you space to just be yourselves.
What I believe —
- I believe everyone deserves to feel comfortable being exactly who they are in front of the camera.
- I believe authenticity will always outshine trends.
- I believe calm guidance creates better moments than rigid posing ever could.
- And I believe the world is better when we celebrate the quirks, the color, and the individuality that make people who they are.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, celebrating a milestone, or just want photos that feel like you, my goal is always the same: to create images that feel honest, emotional, and deeply personal.
Things you might not know about me
Being open-minded
my best quality:
Rock climbing and hiking
my favorite hobbies:
My husband and our 22-pound tabby cat, bubba
what brings me the most joy:
Mint green tea
i couldn't live without:
Fantasy books & legos
current obsessions:
Parks & Rec, Schitt’s Creek, and New Girl
my comfort tv shows:
Anything ABBA
my dance floor song request:
Over-delivering photos
bad habit:
"She was one of the best decisions we made surrounding our wedding!"
"Stephanie is INCREDIBLE.From the second we met her, we felt at ease. She was so easy to work with, really creative, super funny, and even helped calm my nerves the morning of the wedding. She is quick with communication, all the way from booking to delivery of the wedding photos. Stephanie delivered our photos so fast and each photo shows her talent and eye for the perfect moments.”
Christina + Jim
“Steph is not just an amazing photographer, she is truly just an awesome human being."
"She is so laid back, makes everything easy and makes you laugh! My husband and I chose Steph to do our wedding this past Summer. Our photos are beyond anything we could've expected. Her attention to detail and and an eye for quality is unmatched."
stephanie + matt
"She captured every single beautiful moment."
"I can’t even explain how grateful I am that Steph agreed to be our photographer. Every last detail was photographed and preserved forever. She was professional and precise. Her attention to detail and quick turn around time were incredible!! We are so thankful for you!"
Ashley + Nate
"She was definitely our favorite wedding vendor!"
"Stephanie was meticulously organized, kept things very relaxed and fun, and was instrumental in making sure our day went to plan. She was also on-top of communicating with us leading up to the wedding. Having her at our wedding was almost like having a day-of coordinator to help us keep the day on track."
