#1 - From Forest Resources to Photography: My Conservation Journey
Before MM Photography existed, I was knee-deep in streams, logging benthic macroinvertebrates and cataloging wetland wildlife. My journey began in the field of environmental science, where I earned a degree in Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation. I spent my early career observing the balance of ecosystems, learning to read the landscape, understand its rhythms, and recognize the stories it told. Then I picked up a camera, and everything changed.
I began capturing what I saw, not just for documentation, but for meaning. A turtle basking on a log became a moment of quiet resilience. The light filtering through trees transformed into a scene worth remembering.
Over time, photography became more than a tool, it was a passion. I realized the camera could act as a bridge between people and nature, helping others see what I had come to love so deeply. Whether I’m photographing a couple on a trail or a fox at the forest’s edge, my goal is to tell stories that evoke emotion and encourage care for the world around us.
Photography allows me to translate my love for people, places, and the planet into something tangible; something that invites us all to look a little closer and care a little more.
#2 - Photographing Wildlife with Respect
There’s a unique kind of magic in photographing wild animals. That brief eye contact, the golden-hour stillness, the thrill of watching nature unfold on its own terms. But the magic should never come at the expense of the animal or its habitat. With my background in conservation, I approach wildlife photography with intention and care. Here’s how I ensure that every photo I take is rooted in respect:
1. Let Wildlife Stay Wild
I don’t bait animals, chase them, or get too close. If an animal changes its behavior or seems unsettled, I step away. No photo is worth causing stress or harm.
2. Use Thoughtful Gear
I use long lenses to keep a respectful distance, and I rely on natural light or quiet settings instead of flash. The goal is to capture, not disturb.
3. Learn Before You Shoot
Understanding the species I photograph helps me recognize signs of stress, avoid sensitive times like nesting or breeding seasons, and choose the right moments to observe.
4. Leave No Trace
I never leave behind trash, trampled vegetation, or gear marks. In fact, I often pick up litter while I’m out photographing. Respecting nature means leaving it as I found it or better.
Final Thoughts
Ethical wildlife photography isn’t just about technical skill; it’s about respect. When we approach the natural world with care, we walk away not just with good images, but with a stronger connection to the earth and its creatures.
#3 - The 10 Best Places for Engagement Photos Around Longmont
When it comes to celebrating love, Colorado offers some of the most breathtaking backdrops. Whether you're planning a quiet elopement, an adventurous engagement session, or simply want portraits that feel personal, choosing the right location makes all the difference. The following are some of my favorite spots near Longmont and beyond. Each one offers beautiful light, natural charm, and plenty of space for your story to unfold.
1. Sandstone Ranch – Longmont, CO
A local favorite with rustic barns, open fields, and dramatic sandstone cliffs. This spot brings a relaxed, natural vibe to your session. It's perfect year-round and especially beautiful during golden hour.
2. McIntosh Lake – Longmont, CO
Peaceful water, mountain views, and wide-open trails make this a wonderful location for low-key engagement sessions. Sunrise and sunset here are stunning, and it's pet-friendly too.
3. Golden Ponds – Longmont, CO
This hidden gem offers quiet trails, reflective ponds, and mountain views across the water. It’s simple, natural, and perfect for couples who want something close to home.
4. Chautauqua Park – Boulder, CO
The Flatirons create a striking backdrop, and the area’s trails, wildflowers, and open fields are perfect for romantic photos. This spot works well in any season, especially in the early morning when the light is soft and the crowds are small.
5. Lost Gulch Overlook – Boulder, CO
If you’re dreaming of dramatic mountain views, this overlook delivers. It’s best at sunset, when the sky lights up behind the peaks. Just be ready for some wind and a little bit of a scramble.
6. Estes Park – CO
Charming and surrounded by alpine beauty, Estes Park is perfect for couples who want mountain views with a small-town feel. Whether you're planning a casual session or an intimate elopement, this area has so much variety.
7. Sprague Lake – Rocky Mountain National Park
An easy-to-access lake loop with mountain reflections and peaceful scenery. Sprague Lake is one of my top picks for elopements or sunrise portraits.
8. Bear Lake – Rocky Mountain National Park
An iconic spot with granite peaks, evergreen forests, and a short trail around the lake. It’s especially lovely in fall and winter. Early mornings here are worth the chill for the privacy and the light.
9. Sheep Lakes and Horseshoe Park – RMNP
Wide open views, wildflowers in summer, and a peaceful vibe make this a great alternative to busier park areas. Wildlife sightings are common, and the views stretch for miles.
10. Rocky Mountain National Park – General Areas
From alpine meadows to hidden trails, the entire park is filled with magical locations. Whether you're exchanging vows or capturing your engagement, I can help guide you through permit info, planning tips, and finding the perfect spot.
Choosing the Right Location
What feeling do you want to convey in your photos? Do you want water, peaks, trees, or something rustic? You want a location that fits your style, the season, your comfort level, and your vision.
- Think about your vibe: Are you going for romantic, adventurous, rustic, or refined?
- Season matters: Snowy backdrops vs. summer wildflowers vs. fall color — each tells a different story.
- Accessibility: Some couples want a short walk, others are down for a hike. Let’s match the spot to your comfort level.
- Permits & Privacy: I’ll help you navigate any requirements and suggest the best times for quieter sessions. Reminder: Some areas in the National Park are closed during certain times of the year, so check ahead.
#4 - Coordinating Outfits for Your Photoshoot
One of the first things people ask when booking a photoshoot is, “What should we wear?” It’s a great question and one that does not need to be stressful. The right outfits help your photos feel polished while still looking natural and true to you. With a little planning, you can show up feeling confident and ready to enjoy the moment. Here are some simple, no-pressure tips to help you choose outfits that photograph beautifully.
1. Start with the vibe of your session
Consider where your photos are being taken and what the overall atmosphere is like. An urban session usually pairs well with clean lines and slightly bolder colors, while outdoor or nature-based sessions look great with softer tones and relaxed styles. You wouldn’t wear a suit to a laid-back family session in the park, just like sweatpants wouldn’t fit a professional portrait. Let the location and purpose guide your choices.
Consider where your photos are being taken and what the overall atmosphere is like. An urban session usually pairs well with clean lines and slightly bolder colors, while outdoor or nature-based sessions look great with softer tones and relaxed styles. You wouldn’t wear a suit to a laid-back family session in the park, just like sweatpants wouldn’t fit a professional portrait. Let the location and purpose guide your choices.
2. Choose a simple color palette.
Picking two to four coordinating colors makes outfit planning much easier, especially for couples or families. Neutrals and earthy tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on faces and connection. Try to avoid super bright or neon colors since they can reflect onto the skin and distract from the moment.
Picking two to four coordinating colors makes outfit planning much easier, especially for couples or families. Neutrals and earthy tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on faces and connection. Try to avoid super bright or neon colors since they can reflect onto the skin and distract from the moment.
3. Coordinate, don’t match.
Everyone wearing the same color can feel a bit stiff. Instead, mix shades, textures, and subtle patterns that work well together. If one person wears a patterned piece, balance it out with solids on others. This creates a more natural, visually interesting look.
Everyone wearing the same color can feel a bit stiff. Instead, mix shades, textures, and subtle patterns that work well together. If one person wears a patterned piece, balance it out with solids on others. This creates a more natural, visually interesting look.
4. Stick with timeless pieces.
Classic styles tend to age better in photos than trendy items. Logos, large graphics, and bold text can pull attention away from you, so it’s best to skip those. Well-fitting clothes that flatter your shape will always photograph better than something that feels uncomfortable or forced.
Classic styles tend to age better in photos than trendy items. Logos, large graphics, and bold text can pull attention away from you, so it’s best to skip those. Well-fitting clothes that flatter your shape will always photograph better than something that feels uncomfortable or forced.
5. Think about texture and layers.
Layers like jackets, cardigans, or scarves add depth and movement to photos. Textured fabrics like knits, denim, or lace also add visual interest without being overwhelming. Accessories should be simple and intentional, just enough to enhance the outfit without competing with it.
Layers like jackets, cardigans, or scarves add depth and movement to photos. Textured fabrics like knits, denim, or lace also add visual interest without being overwhelming. Accessories should be simple and intentional, just enough to enhance the outfit without competing with it.
6. Dress for comfort and confidence.
This one matters most. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows. Choose outfits that let you move easily and feel like yourself. Confidence really is the best accessory.
This one matters most. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows. Choose outfits that let you move easily and feel like yourself. Confidence really is the best accessory.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, your photos are about connection, personality, and real moments. The right outfit simply supports that story and never steals the spotlight.
#5 - Getting Genuine Smiles Every Time
Let’s be honest. Being told to “smile or say cheese" seldom results in a genuine smile. Real smiles come from real moments, movement, and a little bit of silliness. Whether I’m photographing families, couples, or kids, my goal is always the same: create an environment where laughter happens naturally instead of being forced. These are some of my favorite tried-and-true tricks, and why they work so well.
“Give me your most ridiculous smile or silliest face"
When people try to look ridiculous, they usually fail in the best way possible. The effort itself makes them laugh, and that laugh turns into a natural smile right after. Those in-between moments are gold.
“Everyone look at someone else. Go!”
As soon as people stop focusing on the camera, their expressions soften. Looking at each other creates connection, laughter, and genuine reactions that feel much more natural than staring straight ahead.
The Bum Wiggle
I’ll sometimes ask someone to do a little bum wiggle before a photo. It’s unexpected and just awkward enough to break the tension. When people feel a little silly, their guard drops, and the smiles that follow are real instead of posed.
“Look at the person with the stinkiest feet. Or, who took the longest getting ready?”
This one always gets a reaction from families. People immediately start laughing or pointing. This sparks playful teasing and inside jokes, which almost always lead to authentic laughter.
Kids run up behind their parents for surprise hugs
This creates real emotion instantly. Parents aren’t expecting it, kids are excited, and the reactions are genuine every time. These moments often become favorites because they feel real.
Parents tickle the kids
Tickles equal laughter, plain and simple. The key is keeping it short so it stays fun and doesn’t turn into chaos, but those first giggles are perfect.
Bear hugs and kisses all over for couples
Instead of stiff posing, I’ll tell couples to squeeze each other, give big bear hugs, or cover each other in kisses. Physical closeness naturally creates laughter and connection, which shows beautifully in photos.
Know at least a couple Dad jokes
Dad jokes are harmless, corny, and oddly effective. Even eye rolls turn into real smiles, and kids love them more than adults expect.
Have a race
Whether it’s running toward you or racing back to mom and dad, movement loosens everyone up. Kids forget about the camera entirely, and parents usually end up laughing right along with them.
Tell kids not to smile
Kids almost always do the opposite of what you ask. I save this one for my toughest tiny critics. Telling them not to smile usually results in giggles, smirks, and big natural grins that don’t feel forced.
Be ready for the in-between moments
Some of the best smiles happen right after the joke, after the hug, or when everyone thinks the photo is done. I always keep my camera ready because those unplanned moments are often the most genuine and meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Real smiles come from real moments. My job isn’t just to take photos, it’s to create an experience where you can relax, laugh, and be yourself. That’s when the magic happens.