About CHARRIE

Short answer? I ditched the fear and chased the dream.

From 2013 to 2017, I juggled photography on the side while working in marketing and nonprofit leadership (plus grad school, because why not?). But by baby #3, I realized I was craving more creativity—and in 2018, I made the leap into full-time photography. Best. Decision. Ever.

Now, I wake up pumped to shoot or edit, and I’ve built my dream in-home studio to match the magic. My main space is a 20x24 room with a giant white backdrop, props galore, and gear ready to go. The living room is decked out with couches, a chaise, and a fireplace (hello, cozy sessions!). And the boudoir room? Pure sexy elegance—queen bed, chandelier, and all the “fancy hotel vibes” for those intimate moments.

I’m obsessed with what I do—and it shows.

Oh, I’m Nikon through and through.

My main squeeze is the Nikon Z9, with a Z7 as my trusty backups. I’ve got lenses for days, but my go-tos are the 50mm f/1.4, 35mm, and 70-180mm f/2.8—they’re buttery, sharp, and chef’s kiss every time.

I’m a natural light lover at heart, but I’ve mastered low-light and studio lighting too. Whether it’s golden hour or a pitch-black venue, your photos will be beautifully lit and timeless.

I’ve shot fully manual for over a decade—so yeah, my work went from “she’s got talent” to “Daaaang, she’s a total pro.”

I’m a total believer in “knowledge is power.”

I’m constantly researching, Googling, YouTubing, and diving into all things photography—from lighting and posing to editing hacks and gear upgrades. I’m active in tons of photography Facebook groups and invest in the best tools and software out there.

But honestly? The biggest game-changer has been learning from other amazing photographers across the country. Community over competition, always.

It all started in 2009 with a Nikon D3000, my sweet 2-year-old on New Smyrna Beach, and a very pregnant me just trying to capture a moment. I had no clue what I was doing—hello, auto mode—but something clicked (literally and figuratively). I saw the art in it, even if I had a lot to learn.

Back then, I was juggling a full-time career in public health, writing federal grants, and raising a family. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find me editing weddings at 6am—still in my robe, jamming to music, and smiling at bridesmaids dancing on screen. And instead of chasing government deadlines, I’m chasing golden hour light.

I spent years building a successful career, but it wasn’t until I picked up that camera and took my passion seriously that I felt truly me. And it all began with one little muse—my now 18-year-old son.