Lauren Maye
I was raised in the Bay Area, California by a single mother, and much of who I am today was shaped by an upbringing rooted in creativity, curiosity, and connection. My grandmother introduced me to art museums, wildflower picking in the Almaden Hills, jazz music, books, and eventually one of her old film cameras , this was the beginning of everything for me.
Photography quickly became less about taking pictures and more about preserving feeling. Through years of photographing friends, families, children, landscapes, and life as it unfolded around me, I developed a deep appreciation for honest imagery and the beauty found in ordinary moments.
Outside of photography, I’m a mother, nature lover, home cook, baker, and someone deeply grounded by connection, both to people and to the earth itself. That perspective naturally shapes the way I approach my work: with intention, calm presence, and an appreciation for emotion, atmosphere, and the moments that feel most real.
More than anything, I want the people I photograph to feel comfortable enough to fully be themselves , because that’s where the magic always lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime!
-
I specialize in wedding photography, elopements, couples, engagements, boudoir, family sessions, maternity photography, branding portraits, and creative storytelling sessions. I offer a mix of digital and film photography to create timeless, emotional imagery with an editorial yet authentic feel.
-
I am based in Oregon and frequently photograph weddings and sessions throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Portland, the Oregon Coast, Washington, and beyond. Travel is always welcome for destination weddings, elopements, and adventure sessions. My travel fees for California and Nevada are reduced, as they are my other home bases!
-
My photography style is emotional, documentary-inspired, and artistically guided. I focus on genuine moments, movement, connection, natural light, and intentional storytelling while blending candid imagery with lightly directed portraits. I want you to be comfortable being yourself.
-
Yes. I offer both digital and film photography for weddings and portrait sessions. Film adds depth, softness, texture, and a nostalgic quality that beautifully complements digital imagery. Since film is how I got my start, it holds a special place in my creative little heart!
-
Yes — aerial coverage is available for weddings, elopements, and sessions when weather, venue regulations, and location conditions allow. I structure my pricing to allow this as a guaranteed option given conditions are ideal.
-
For weddings, most couples book anywhere from 8–18 months in advance. Portrait and lifestyle sessions typically book 1–3 months ahead. If your date is approaching quickly, feel free to inquire anyway — I occasionally have last-minute availability.
-
Once you submit an inquiry form, I’ll reach out to schedule a consultation or answer any questions. To officially reserve your date, a signed contract and retainer are required.
-
Wedding collections are designed to provide flexible coverage depending on the size and flow of your day. Most collections include timeline guidance, edited high-resolution images, an online gallery, storytelling using both film and digital, drone footage/stills, and unlimited consultation. Second shooters are available and recommended based on wedding size or other conditions. Credits for luxury wedding albums and prints are also available.
-
Wedding photography pricing varies depending on coverage hours, travel, and included services. Most couples invest in full-day storytelling coverage for the most complete experience which starts at $4,800 and increases depending on your needs/desires (second photographer coverage, travel, photo album, expedited gallery delivery, etc.) Custom collections are available for elopements and intimate weddings.
-
You are not alone. Most people feel nervous before being photographed which is completely understandable! I focus on movement, prompts, and genuine interaction rather than stiff posing so your photos feel natural and emotionally honest. The biggest compliment I receive is how comfortable my clients feel
-
Portrait sessions are typically delivered within a few weeks, while weddings generally take several weeks depending on the season and coverage. You’ll receive updates along the way and your gallery will be delivered through an online platform for easy downloading and sharing.
-
I believe in documenting people honestly and beautifully. I will always be mindful of angles and perspectives that are the most flattering for all body types. Temporary distractions such as blemishes may be lightly retouched, but I do not drastically alter body shape or appearance.
-
I always recommend wearing whatever most makes you feel comfortable in your own skin! I always offer curated styling guides as a part of my session service. It’s a great insight into color combinations and materials that suit your exact location and match the vibe.
-
Absolutely. I believe every love story, identity, body, family dynamic, and connection deserves to be documented with care, respect, and authenticity. My photography experience is intentionally inclusive, welcoming couples and individuals of all identities, backgrounds, cultures, orientations, and expressions. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, comfortable, celebrated, and fully yourself in front of the camera. LOVE IS HUMAN
-
Accurate, intentional skin tones are incredibly important to me. I photograph and edit with care to ensure all skin tones are represented beautifully, naturally, and true to life. Lighting, exposure, and color grading are thoughtfully adjusted throughout the entire process so every person is photographed with depth, warmth, and authenticity — never overlooked or washed out by trendy editing styles.
-
There are so many incredibly talented photographers out there, and honestly, choosing the right one often comes down to connection… how you feel in their presence, the energy they bring into your day, and whether their work genuinely resonates with you. Beyond creating beautiful images, I care deeply about creating an experience that feels calm, intentional, emotionally present, and genuinely supportive from beginning to end. My goal is not just to take beautiful photos, but to document how your moments actually felt, in a way that remains timeless for years to come.
-
You can reach out through the inquiry form on my website with your date, location, and a little about your vision. I can’t wait to hear your story.