Hello, Im Elsie
Portrait Photographer
I've had a passion for photography ever since I was 16 years old. It all started in high school, when I saved up to buy my very first camera. From then on, I spent countless weekends photographing my friends, experimenting with new ideas, and falling more in love with the art of capturing genuine moments.
Through those experiences, I discovered that my favorite part of photography isn't just taking beautiful pictures—it's helping people see themselves the way others see them. There's nothing more rewarding than delivering a gallery of images that makes someone feel confident, beautiful, and truly like themselves.
My goal with every session is to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience where you can be fully present with the people you love. Using cinematic prompts, natural movement, and genuine interactions, I'll guide you every step of the way so your photos feel effortless rather than posed. Every gallery is thoughtfully edited to complement the atmosphere of your session and bring your unique vision to life, creating stunning, meaningful images you'll treasure for years to come. I want every client to receive their gallery, smile from ear to ear, and genuinely love not only the way they look, but the memories we've captured together.
My approach
Prompts, movement, laughter
My style blends cinematic storytelling with classic photography, capturing genuine emotion, natural movement, and intentional portraits that feel authentic and uniquely you. Through fun prompts and gentle direction, I create an experience where you can relax, laugh, and truly be yourself while creating images that reflect your connection and vision.
During our session, you'll hear prompts like, "Walk toward each other like you're meeting for your first date," "Whisper your favorite thing about them," "Spin them around," or "Dance like no one's watching." Instead of focusing on perfect poses, I'll guide you through movement and genuine interactions that bring out real laughter, authentic emotion, and natural connection. My goal is for your session to feel more like spending time together than standing in front of a camera.
The experience:
Location Guide
Your experience begins before you ever step in front of the camera. You’ll receive my Des Moines Location Guide to help you choose the perfect setting, along with a confirmation the morning of your session or the day before.
Planning Process
I’m also here throughout the planning process. Whether you have questions, want to schedule a phone call, or need help choosing what to wear, you can reach me through social media. I’m happy to help you put together outfits that feel like you and photograph beautifully.
Prompts, movement, intentional poses
Your session is designed to feel effortless, comfortable, and completely centered around you. From the moment we begin, I’ll guide you through natural prompts and gentle direction so you never have to worry about what to do in front of the camera. My goal is to create a space where you can relax, be yourself, and actually enjoy the process.
emotion
Each session is a blend of intentional guidance and real moments. I focus on capturing genuine emotion, movement, and connection so your images feel natural rather than overly posed.
the result
You’ll leave not only with a gallery of warm, bold, and timeless images, but with an experience that feels just as meaningful as the photos themselves.
Let’s work together
