(c) The Refinery Photo Studio
Hi, hi! Welcome!
My Mission as Your Photographer: To help people forget about the camera - because that’s when the magic happens.
Overall, my goal is to create images that you see yourself in.
Not other couples, not the trendy poses on Pinterest and Instagram.
But photos as your true authentic self.
Period.
What’s it like to work with me?
I love jumping into your shoes and seeing the environment that makes everyone most comfortable and relaxed, while preserving the memories that will last generations.
I am there to capture your natural moments and provide prompts, suggestions and make things funny or less awkward when needed. That way, you get to see the little moments and subtleties that are usually missed.
Want to know more?
Over the years, I’ve worn a lot of hats. Here are a few jobs I’ve done over the years:
McDonalds (not once but twice)
A Napkin Factory
American Eagle
College Campus Event Coordinator
Red Frog Events
Airport Greeter at O’hare
Yes, the people with the signs and names
Wedding and Concert Venue Director
Segway Tour Guide
Yes, you read that right.
Although, my longest career, photography. It officially kicked off at Summerfest in 2008. I started photographing the shows on a whim while being completely obsessed with capturing movement, emotion, and those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments with ever changing lighting. Then, I posted the photos online and someone reached out asking me to photograph their wedding.
A wedding? Me? The concert photographer?
Their exact logic was, “Well, if you can photograph our favorite band at Summerfest, you can photograph our wedding.” Honestly? Fair point.
At the center of it all though?
People.
I’m an extrovert through and through, and getting to connect with humans from all walks of life is one of my favorite parts of this work.
Certified Fun Facts About Me:
I will bust out my "awkward robot" when I am not sure what to do next.
So, be ready to dance the awkwardness out with me!
I have gone skydiving in Hawaii, and yes, I would do it again.
I’ve hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and out in a day. Thanks to my sister Tracy for pushing me to accomplish this!
The outdoors is my church and happy place, I try to go to at least one National Park every year.
Have you been to a National Park? What is your favorite?
I’ve had the honor of photographing weddings in Scotland, Jamaica (2x) and Germany (at a castle!).
ADHD is my superpower and really helps me stay organized and onto of tasks… it sounds counterintuitive, I know!
Recently, I spent a month on a creative sabbatical in New Zealand… It is now my FAVORITE country to visit and be active in. I walked, hiked and biked over 310 miles during my time there. I have endless stories… including details about 3 helicopter rides during my 8 day hike!
My next big travel is this summer to Poland and Spain. I am excited to go back to Poland after studying abroad there 21 years ago.
