ABOUT

I'll make sure you're too busy living in the moment to overthink it

This is where putting full trust in your photographer pays off.

The biggest obstacle to great photos: you're way too in your own head.

You have permission to let go while I handle the rest. 

Clients often show up already worried about whether there's a wrinkle in their dress, if I'm going to photoshop out any hair that sticks up, where to put their hands. They're building it up as this massive thing in their mind before we've even started.

My job is to get you out of your head and into the moment. Before you can wonder what to do next, I'm already directing you. Before you can feel awkward, I'm giving you the next pose. Ten minutes in, you'll forget you were even nervous. That's when the magic happens.

Sound like what you've been looking for?

Yes! Take my photos →

My last name isn’t Shotwell for nothing.

It’s time for photos that are shot well. (I’ll see myself out)

Who’s that girl behind the lens?

  • Makes a mean roast chicken + a meaner frozen marg

  • Can drive a golf ball over 200 yards

  • Met her husband two-stepping in the Lone Star State (and now tears it up with latin dancing)

  • Studied interior design + industrial design in school

  • Loves a themed party

  • Sewed the barbie movie dress for one said party

  • Is a WNC native hanging out in the upstate

  • Prefers really fluffy cats. Currently has a Nebelung named Remi

FAQ

If you think getting your photo taken has to be stiff and awkward, think again.

I'm convinced I'm not photogenic. Help?

1

About 90% of my clients say this exact thing before we shoot. Here's what actually happens: ten minutes in, you completely forget there's a camera. That's when you stop trying and start looking like yourself—which is exactly when the magic happens.

How long until I get my photos back?

2

4 weeks for portrait sessions, 8 weeks for weddings. I know waiting feels eternal, but we're not rushing this—we're going for photos you make your phone wallpaper immediately and can't stop staring at.

Will you just tell me what to do so the photos come out good?

3

Totally. Before you even wonder where your hands should go, I'm already directing you to the next thing. You won't stand around feeling lost—I'm three steps ahead with ideas.

Will you travel for my wedding/session?

4

Absolutely. I love exploring new locations. Travel within 60 miles of Greenville, SC is built in, anything beyond that just needs a travel fee tacked on.

What if Mother Nature ruins everything?

5

She won't. Some of my best work happens when we just embrace whatever weather shows up. Overcast skies are actually a photographer's dream—no harsh shadows, just soft, gorgeous light.

Can I stalk your Instagram first?

6

Please do: @balsam_portraits. Check out my portfolio to see wedding and portrait galleries. If you're into what you see, let's talk.

Your search for photos worth staring at ends here.

Fill out the form and let's create some magic.

Show me the way →