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on pacific northwest venues and wedding tips & trends
from a top PNW wedding, event, and portrait photographer


5 Ways to Re-Connect With Your Fiancé After a Busy Wedding Show
Wedding shows are exciting, inspiring… and a lot . Between vendor conversations, timelines, budgets, and a thousand beautiful ideas swirling around, it’s easy to walk away feeling overwhelmed instead of connected. That’s completely normal — and it’s also a great opportunity to pause, reset, and come back to the heart of why you’re planning this wedding in the first place. Here are five simple, meaningful ways to reconnect with your fiancé after a busy wedding show — no plann
2 min read


Brew 253: The 253’s Beer & Music Festival | Tacoma Arts Live Annual Celebration
One of Tacoma’s favorite summer traditions returned on Saturday, August 9, 2025 — Brew Five Three: The 253’s Beer & Music Festival hosted by Tacoma Arts Live at the iconic Tacoma Armory and along Yakima Avenue . This annual beer and music celebration brought together craft breweries, regional cideries, delicious food, joyful music, friendly competition, and countless memorable moments — all in support of Tacoma Arts Live’s nonprofit mission to energize community through l
3 min read


🌆 Grit City Gala 2025 | Alfresco Fine Dining in the Heart of Downtown Tacoma
On August 21, 2025 , Broadway Street in downtown Tacoma transformed into something truly special. The Grit City Gala , hosted by the Tacoma Farmers Market , brought together community, cuisine, and connection for a one-of-a-kind alfresco fine dining experience set right in the middle of the city. Long family-style tables stretched down the tree-lined street as the summer sun dipped low behind the buildings, casting warm light across elegant place settings, shared plates, and
3 min read


💍 Engagement Session Giveaway | Tell Me Your Love Story
Christmas just passed… which means something magical happened all across the Pacific Northwest. ✨ Engagements. ✨ Proposals over twinkly lights. Quiet "yeses" at home. Happy tears. Shaky hands. Rings hidden for months finally revealed. Or maybe — no big proposal at all, just two people who looked at each other one day and knew. That’s why I’m hosting an Engagement Session Giveaway — not for the most viral proposal, not for the flashiest moment — but for real love stories . ❤
2 min read


🎄 STOP SCROLLING. THIS IS YOUR LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY MIRACLE at 50% off
You’ve got 2 days until Christmas . Amazon is judging you. Target is out of stock. And you still don’t know what to get the mom who has everything , the partner who “doesn’t need anything,” or the person you love who secretly just wants to feel seen again . Good news: I’ve got you. For a very limited time until Jan 1, 2026 , I’m offering 50% OFF Photography Gift Certificates — the kind of gift that doesn’t end up in a drawer by February. 🎁 THE GIFT THAT MAKES PEOPLE
2 min read


🐾 Puppy Love in the Studio | Need the perfect Christmas gift?
There’s something truly special about photographing puppies — especially when they’re right at that fleeting stage where everything is new, curious, and impossibly sweet. This week in the studio, I had the absolute joy of photographing three Alusky puppies , each with their own personality, markings, and charm. Sessions like this are exactly why pet photography is such meaningful work. Meet Clark Kent , Bruce Wayne , and Diana Prince — three siblings born on October 18, 2025
3 min read


🛠️ Tacoma Women Build | A Day of Community, Confidence & Impact
Every month in Tacoma, something powerful happens on Habitat for Humanity build sites across Pierce County. Women from all walks of life — first-time volunteers, seasoned tradeswomen, community leaders, neighbors, friends — gather together for Women Build , a hands-on building experience designed to uplift, empower, and unite. This month’s Women Build Day was exactly that: a vibrant, hardworking, joy-filled gathering of women committed to strengthening our community one wall,
2 min read


💛 Celebrating the Life of Mattice Hoyt | Tacoma Memorial
Photography isn’t just about capturing moments — it’s about preserving legacy , honoring the people whose presence shaped our communities, and witnessing the deep connections between individuals and the city they loved. Recently, I had the profound honor of photographing the memorial service for Mattice Hoyt of Tacoma, WA — a vibrant community leader, business owner, and friend to many. Mattice was known by many as the owner of Mattice Beauty Supply , a beloved fixture in Ce
3 min read


🕊️ Honoring Legacy Through Portraits | A Vietnamese Family’s Memorial Session
In every family, there are moments that deserve to be preserved — stories that deserve to be remembered. Recently, I had the privilege of photographing the beautiful Vo family in my Tacoma studio: an elder couple surrounded by their two adult children. The session was created for a very special purpose — their Memorial Portrait — a deeply meaningful tradition in Vietnamese culture. 📸 The Meaning of Memorial Portraits In Vietnamese culture, a Memorial Portrait holds profou
3 min read


🎭 Stadium High School Brings Holiday Cheer to the Stage | Elf Jr. The Musical
There’s nothing like live theater during the holidays — and this winter, Stadium High School’s Theater Department , led by the AMAZING Liz Jacobsen, brought the magic to life with their production of Elf Jr. The Musical . Based on the beloved 2003 Christmas movie Elf , this heartwarming story follows Buddy the Elf , a human raised by Santa’s elves, as he travels from the North Pole to New York City in search of his real father. The Stadium High cast filled the stage with joy,
2 min read


✨ Glam Studio Session Spotlight: Kenyatta in the Winter Wonderland Set
Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is step into the spotlight yourself — and that’s exactly what Kenyatta, a talented local makeup artist, did when she decided to try being in front of the camera for a change. And let’s just say: she absolutely killed it. Dressed in a bold magenta pink sweater layered over a sleek black lycra onesie with matching magenta fur boots, Kenyatta was a vision of confidence, style, and unapologetic self-expression. Every pose was intentio
2 min read


🎶 Live at The Eleanor: Champagne Sunday Brings Heart and Harmony to Tacoma
There’s a special kind of magic that happens when music fills an intimate room with Tacoma Arts Live’s Live At The Eleanor , where magic is the point! Each month, the series transforms The Eleanor —a historic, softly lit space in downtown Tacoma—into a warm gathering place for musicians and listeners who crave connection over spectacle. This month’s performance featured Champagne Sunday , the powerhouse Tacoma duo known for their joyful energy, emotional honesty, and seamle
2 min read


A Vibrant Fusion of Art, Sound, and Story at Tacoma Arts Live
🍋 Lemon Sessions: In the Company of the Ancestors At the Tacoma Armory this November, art met ancestry in a luminous way during Tacoma Arts Live’s Lemon Sessions: In the Company of the Ancestors . The two-night event transformed the space into a sensory world of color, rhythm, and reflection — where the past and present danced together in harmony. A Space Transformed The Lemon Sessions take their name from a simple, playful observation: the massive, curved screen at the cen
7 min read


Throwback Awkward 90s Holiday Portrait Sessions | Tacoma–Seattle Christmas Photos
Behind the scenes at Sage and Soul Photography in Tacoma, WA! Our Awkward 90s holiday mini sessions feature retro outfits, fun posing, and hilarious memories — perfect for unique Christmas cards. This fun couple poses in front of cheesy Christmas background set, expressionless, and hilarious at the same time. A return to the silly 1980s and 1990s photo sessions.
3 min read


A Romantic Lakeside Wedding in Auburn + Elegant Tacoma Reception | Joshua & Moth
Some weddings feel like a scene pulled straight from a novel — layered with meaning, full of color, and woven with personal history. Joshua & Moth’s day was exactly that. From a heartfelt backyard ceremony at Moth’s grandparents’ lakeside home in Auburn, WA, to a cozy reception at Dystopian State Brewing Co. & Event Venue overlooking downtown Tacoma and the Puget Sound waterfront, this celebration was intimate, joyful, and beautifully intentional. How Their Story Began Like m
4 min read


How to Get Authentic, Natural Smiles from Kids During Family Photo Sessions
By Leah Browning | Sage + Soul Photography – Tacoma, WA There’s nothing quite like the sound of genuine laughter echoing through the trees at Wright Park on a crisp, rainy November afternoon. The golden and rust-colored fall leaves, the glisten of drizzle on the branches, and the giggles of kids being—well—kids. That’s what I love most about photographing families here in the South Sound: real, authentic moments. After 20 years as a Tacoma family photographer , I’ve learned t
3 min read


Dia de los Muertos Ball – Tacoma–Cienfuegos Sister City Fundraiser | Event Photography & Video by Sage + Soul
This weekend I had the honor of photographing and filming the “Amor Eterno” Dia de los Muertos Ball , hosted by the Tacoma – Cienfuegos Sister City Committee . It was a breathtaking night of culture, color, and community — all in support of Tacoma’s sister city - Cienfuegos, Cuba. About the Committee The Tacoma – Cienfuegos Sister City Committee, which was founded and chaired by Marisela Fleites Lear, builds bridges of friendship and collaboration between Tacoma, WA and Cienf
3 min read


❄️ Winter Wonderland Holiday Portrait Sessions | Tacoma–Seattle Family Photographer
The holidays are full of wonder, laughter, and sparkle — but they fly by so fast. Kids grow, families change, and before you know it, those moments are just memories. My Winter Wonderland Holiday Portrait Sessions are designed to freeze the magic in time , giving you timeless images that capture the joy and warmth of the season. I’m Sage & Soul Photography , a Tacoma-based photographer serving families across Tacoma, Seattle, Gig Harbor, Puyallup, and surrounding areas , an
2 min read


A Global Tasting Tour in Puyallup: Food & Wine Festival at Watson’s Nursery
I had the pleasure of photographing one of the most delightful local events of the season — The Food & Wine Festival: A Tasting Tour of 5 Wine Regions at Watson’s Nursery in Puyallup, WA. This sold-out event, hosted in partnership with South Sound Magazine , transformed Watson’s greenhouse into a vibrant tasting tour where guests explored wines and gourmet bites from South Africa, France, Italy, Spain/Portugal, and our own Pacific Northwest . A Night of Global Flavors The a
3 min read


Capture the Magic of Homecoming & Prom | Professional Portrait Photography in Tacoma, WA
Every fall, the excitement of homecoming season fills the air — the dresses are chosen, the suits are pressed, and the group chats are buzzing with plans. Before the dance begins, there’s a moment worth capturing forever: the laughter, the friendships, and the anticipation. That’s where I come in. I’m Sage & Soul Photography , and I specialize in photographing high school students on their dance days — from homecoming and prom to any special event that deserves more than a
2 min read

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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 (https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2d77fe_3339d6737260449eb8c1dc22aa9383ad~mv2.png)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~
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