top of page
things to know
explore the possibilities - look here for the inside scoop
on pacific northwest venues and wedding tips & trends
from a top PNW wedding, event, and portrait photographer
What Could You Host If Space Wasn't the Limitation?
Most people do not start with the question, "What do I want this gathering to feel like?" They start with limits. My house is too small. Restaurants are too loud. Hotels feel too corporate. Community rooms feel too plain. Outdoor events depend on the weather. I do not want to coordinate a dozen vendors. I need tables. I need chairs. I need sound. I need food. I need parking. I need a space that feels special without making the whole thing complicated. That is where The Poet c
4 min read
20 Years of Friendship, One Summer Wedding | Sunshine and Josh in the Sunflower Fields
Sunshine arrived at the ceremony in a white 1950s Chevrolet pickup named Hank, with her dad behind the wheel. He walked her toward the aisle, but not all the way. Her children were waiting to take over and walk their mom the final steps to Josh. Her son wore his U.S. Navy dress whites. Her daughter wore a dress she had made herself—and had also handmade Sunshine’s veil. Sunshine and Josh were married on July 18, 2026, at the home of their best friends. They didn’t want a trad
6 min read
Your Business Does Not Need More Random Content. It Needs a Visual Story.
Most businesses do not have a visibility problem because they need more random photos. They have a visibility problem because people do not understand them quickly enough. What do you do? Who do you serve? What does it feel like to work with you? Why should someone trust you? What makes your business different? Why should they choose you instead of the next option? That is where brand photography and videography matter. Sage + Soul Photography creates photography and video co
4 min read
Stop Renting Boring Rooms
You know the kind of room. Beige walls. Fluorescent lighting. A sad conference table. A projector that may or may not work. Coffee in the corner. Everyone politely waiting for the event to be over. For years, companies have treated event spaces like a box to check. Need a training? Book a room. Need a holiday party? Book a room. Need a client appreciation dinner? Book a room. Need a fundraiser? Book a room. But the room matters. The space changes how people feel when they arr
4 min read
Everyone Thinks It's Just a Wedding Venue... Until They Walk Inside
It happens all the time. Someone hears "venue" and immediately thinks wedding. And yes, The Poet is a beautiful place for a wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, engagement party, bridal shower, or intimate celebration. But The Poet was never designed to be only a wedding venue. It was designed to be a place for every kind of gathering. That means if you are searching for a Tacoma wedding venue, you should absolutely come see it. But if you are planning a birthday party, a cor
4 min read
Your Photographer Has a New Home—and It Changes Everything
Sage + Soul Photography has always been about people. The real moments. The meaningful details. The business owner finally stepping in front of the camera. The family that somehow grows and changes every time you blink. The wedding day that moves too fast. The event that took months to plan and deserves to be remembered well. The brand that needs more than a logo to be understood. The story that needs both photography and video. And now, Sage + Soul Photography has a new crea
4 min read
Tacoma Didn't Need Another Event Venue. It Needed This.
Tacoma has plenty of places where you can reserve a room. But The Poet was created for something more meaningful than simply having a place to put tables. The Poet was created as a gathering place. A place where people can celebrate, learn, perform, connect, eat, laugh, remember, raise money, build community, share ideas, dance, listen, create, and experience something that feels personal. Located in downtown Tacoma inside Manuscript, The Poet is a flexible event venue design
5 min read
Finding Home in Each Other | Danni & Malorie's Twin Willow Gardens Wedding
There are venues that feel designed for weddings, and then there are places that seem to slow people down the moment they arrive. Twin Willow Gardens, tucked into the countryside outside Snohomish, is one of the most magical places to get married! Winding garden paths lead through mature trees and carefully tended flower beds before opening into wide lawns, towering evergreens, and a secluded woodland ceremony space. Although only a short drive from Seattle, the property feel
4 min read
Don't Be Boring This Father's Day. FREE Event here.
Still figuring out what to do today? If you don't have plans, you do now. Join us this afternoon for The Gentleman's Market at The Poet, my new venue/studio! Enjoy this free, all-ages gathering featuring A Fiddle In The Forest live bluegrass music, local vendors, cold beer and cider on tap, and a relaxed Tacoma vibe that's perfect for dads, families, and anyone who enjoys good music and good company. Bring the family. Bring a friend. Or just come hang out. No reservations. No
1 min read
Something new is happening in Tacoma
A new chapter is beginning. After more than 15 years of documenting people’s stories through photography, and years spent managing creative spaces and events, I’m so excited to finally share something that has been growing in my heart for a long time: The Poet — a new venue and creative space in Tacoma. Located inside Manuscript in downtown Tacoma, The Poet was created as a place for gathering, music, movement, creativity, and connection. A space designed to feel warm, flexib
2 min read
Tides Tavern Celebrates Transition from Stanley Family to Anthony's Restaurants | Gig Harbor
Some places carry more weight than others. Tides Tavern is one of those places. It’s been part of Gig Harbor for decades—somewhere people return to again and again, whether they grew up nearby or just discovered it along the waterfront. So when ownership transitions, it matters. A Long History on the Harbor Tides Tavern has been a fixture in Gig Harbor since the 1970s under the Stanley family. Over time, it became one of those places people associate directly with the town it
3 min read
McLane Employee Appreciation Dinner | Argosy Cruise, Seattle
Some events just feel different the moment you arrive. McLane’s annual employee appreciation dinner this year was one of those. It wasn’t just a company event—it felt like a genuine pause to recognize people, step away from the day-to-day, and enjoy being together. This year’s celebration took place on an Argosy Cruise in Seattle, which set the tone right away. Being out on the water, with the skyline in the background and that slower pace you get on a boat, created a complet
3 min read
Newsies Jr. at Stadium High School | A Powerful, Moving Spring Musical
Last weekend, Stadium High School’s theater program in Tacoma brought something truly special to the stage with their spring production of Newsies Jr. — and it was nothing short of incredible. From the very first number to the final bow, the performance was filled with energy, emotion, and an undeniable sense of purpose. This year marked a record number of student participants, both on stage and behind the scenes — a testament to the strength and passion of Stadium’s performi
3 min read
Meet Chai Pyala Café in Lakewood, WA | A Dream Brewed with Culture, Community, and Heart
Chai Pyala Cafe is a newly opened Indian Fusion Cafe in Lakewood, WA
3 min read
Personality Portraits: A Fun, Creative Alternative to School Photos in Tacoma
School photos are a tradition — but they don’t always capture who your child really is . That’s exactly why I created Personality Portrait Sessions — a modern, joyful, confidence-boosting portrait experience designed to celebrate your child’s individuality in a relaxed studio environment. These sessions are a perfect alternative to traditional school pictures for families in Tacoma, Lakewood, University Place, Gig Harbor, Puyallup, and the greater Seattle area who want someth
3 min read
Shalom Aburu: Full Circle — Fashion, Pageantry, and the Art of Becoming
Some moments feel quietly monumental — the kind that stop you in your tracks and remind you how every chapter of your life has been preparing you for the one you’re standing in now. For Shalom Aburu , this photoshoot was one of those moments. She stepped onto set not as a model or a pageant queen, but as a fashion designer, watching women bring her designs to life. The models that day were all pageant queens, carrying titles, grace, and responsibility she knows intimately. As
3 min read
D’Annalyn Washington: Kindness, Confidence, and Believing in Yourself
Some people shine through energy, intention, and heart . D’Annalyn Washington is one of those individuals. Crowned Miss Christmas PNW–Teen , D’Annalyn is committed to spreading kindness, encouragement, and support, with a clear goal: helping others feel valued, appreciated, and confident in who they are . A Journey Rooted in Family and Determination Born in San Antonio, Texas , D’Annalyn was introduced to modeling through her mother, who inspired her simply by example. Watch
2 min read
Michelle Anne: Dancing Through Life — Movement, Confidence, and the Art of Being Fully Seen
Some people move through the world with intention — not rushing, not forcing, but listening .Michelle Anne is one of those people. A model specializing in fashion, wellness, and creative editorial shoots , Michelle brings a rare depth to her work, shaped by a lifelong relationship with movement, a background in ballroom dance , and her professional work as a clinical therapist . Her presence is grounded, expressive, and quietly powerful — the kind that invites you to slow dow
4 min read
Model Spotlight | Blessing B: Small but Mighty
A model, pageant queen, and influencer, Blessing’s journey is rooted in faith, resilience, and cultural pride. Born in Liberia and adopted at just three years old, she was raised in Washington State as one of ten children.
3 min read
Chrishenda Lafaye: Faith, Fire, and Becoming Ms. Washington Globe
Some stories are not about arriving — they’re about becoming . Chrishenda Lafaye is a Tacoma, Washington native , a mother, an award-winning filmmaker, and the reigning Ms. Washington Globe . At 34, she stands in a role she once believed belonged to “the girl on the TV screen” — not to her. Today, she knows differently. “The Girl on the TV Screen” Chrishenda’s journey into modeling and pageantry didn’t begin on a stage — it began in observation. As a young girl, she watched
4 min read
my gift
for you
Plan the perfect wedding day timeline
with these complementary downloads to ease your mind and give you the tools you need to ensure everyone is in their places as your story unfolds.
FAQ
FAQ
common questions
Photography coverage for your specified hours and delivery of high resolution, professionally edited, digital files on a USB flash drive (with a personal-use copyright release). Also includes your own online gallery link to share with family and friends. All packages include Guest Photo Upload Album hosted on my site! Some packages include a second photographer, more hours, and a variety of albums. Canvases and prints can be ordered at an additional cost.
Sometimes. There are times when having an assistant with me is very helpful due to the venue and gear I need to bring with me. From time to time my daughter assists me, which is great because we have the benefit of reading each other's minds which comes in handy on a day full of activity!
Yes, I offer a Rehearsal Dinner package (also Bridal Shower package) to capture your special night before the big day. This can be booked near the bottom of the PORTRAITS tab.
Packages are consecutive hours, so travel time between event locations is included in those hours. Gaps between events are great opportunities to shoot details of the venue and all the decor you've worked so hard to create. I use every possible moment to capture the story of your day!
Yes, when your photographer and other vendors are there over 5 hours, they are required to have a meal break: either a vendor meal or what your guests are having is fine, and much appreciated.
Many factors are considered, such as:
my experience of 15 years, being able to create beautiful captures in any environment on the spot
photography gear and business expenses
collaborating with you on your vision for your day
several weeks of editing and preparing your images to be delivered to you
general industry standard rates for the current year
50% is required at the time of booking as a retainer to save your date, and the remainder is due 4 weeks before the wedding. A signed contract will also accompany your retainer to secure your date. You may make your payment here, or arrange to pay in cash or with a check.
Yes, we can add more time if that happens, at the hourly rate. Before I leave I will check with you and you can let me know.
Unfortunately, no. Once the retainer is paid we do not accept other clients for your date, and it is non-refundable.
Absolutely, I’d love to. My experience can be very helpful in designing the timeline for the day. A well-designed timeline is very important to ensure we stay on schedule and capture each and every incredible moment of your big day.
Within four weeks, you'll receive a link to your digital gallery for which you can share with your family and friends. You'll also receive a beautiful wood box with a USB of your digital images. Canvases and prints can be ordered additionally.
I always come prepared with additional lighting options. My professional gear setup has superb low-light capability as well. I use natural light whenever possible, but know that there are times I need to use additional lighting. I’m happy to share more detail about my gear, just inquire.
Yes! I am based in the greater Seattle area - in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. My studio is near Tacoma. I've enjoyed photographing weddings all over Washington State and welcome out-of-state venues as well. I love to travel and am happy to provide a custom quote for your destination wedding. I've photographed locations in Guatemala, Brazil, 13 European countries, Mexico and South Africa. (I speak some Spanish) I'm always up for an adventure, near or far!
Up to 50 miles, roundtrip from 98104 is included. Additional mileage will be a charge of $1.50 per mile, or custom quote for destination weddings.
Every image receives my personal editing with color correction, adjustments, and a multitude of other aspects important for the image to “pop” and look its best! I do not use trendy presets or filters that fade from fashion with time. I want your photos to look realistic and remind you of exactly how you looked and felt that day. If you are wanting more drastic retouching, that is an additional fee.
(Please note: I do not allow other people to edit or alter the images I capture.)
I typically deliver 50-75 images per hour, depending on the flow of the day. I shoot significantly more to ensure I can curate your best expressions and moments to tell your story in a meaningful way.
I go through all the images and remove any that are duplicates, or with missed focus, closed eyes, etc. You get everything else!
Canvases, prints, and albums can all be ordered at an additional cost. Take a peek at options such as: leather (or linen) wedding albums, parent albums, archival quality photo prints, personally designed save-the-date and thank you cards, gallery wraps, acrylic & metal prints, and more.
I use a professional print lab only available to photographers, so ordering from me will provide you the best quality, accurate, and beautiful products and prints. I do not recommend general photo developing services, as their machines are not calibrated for the correct color and quality. You are welcome to order canvases, prints, albums, and more.
You are able to print and/or share them on social media for personal use. I provide high quality prints through a pro print lab exclusively for photographers.
For copyright reasons, re-editing or altering in any way, is prohibited. They are a representation of my work and my company.
Selling or publishing your images for professional purposes are prohibited without written consent of Sage + Soul Photography. I'm happy to work with you if there's a desire to use photos in a blog or magazine. In these instances, I will provide you an official copyright release.
I do reserve the right to use and print digital images for Sage + Soul marketing purposes.
No, RAW images are not a true representation of my work which involves many hours of tedious editing and tender loving care I put into every image. You’ll be much happier with the finished product, as represented in my galleries.
There is a $150 fee for retrieving your images from our archives to prepare them for you to download again. Just let me know.
Yes, you will LOVE having a highlight video made to help tell your story and re-live all those amazing moments. I offer a Videography add-on package and work with some amazing videographers in the industry.
Videography is available as an add-on. Sage + Soul Photography teams with a very experienced and talented videographer whenever clients are wanting this service. Our videographer has a cinematic style, pays attention to all the details, and really captures your vibe! Service includes 3-5 min highlight video set to music that you can share with all your family and friends!
No problem! I am always ready for anything, and just please let me know ahead of time so I can learn the order of events and customs.
This has never happened, but in the event it does, I have emergency backups ready that my family will contact on my behalf if I am hospitalized. You can be sure to have a quality, professional photographer for your event, no matter what.
I have 15 years experience with natural lighting and flash and studio lights. I am well prepared and equipped for any lighting situations your venue provides.
Yes, I am both licensed and insured. I also bring back-up gear. I’ve got you covered.
It’s important to feel confident in your photographer’s experience and talent. You want to feel they’ve got you covered, no matter what. You also want to know you’d like to spend the day with this person! I’m an easy going people-person that is comfortable with everyone, and confident when needing to give direction to create amazing photos that will capture the emotion and events of your day! To get to know each other, we can jump on a call anytime or meetup for coffee~
bottom of page