Portraits that feel like the best version of you.
Wedding & Portrait Photography based in the Carolinas + always down to travel.
Your photos should feel as good as they look.
Most people have a million and 5 questions running through their mind before they get their photo taken.
Is my outfit okay? Is my hair sticking up in the back? Where the heck do I put my hands?
When you put your trust in me to take your photos… all those worries and “what ifs” melt away and you’ll be able to be fully present— without constantly wondering if you’re doing it right.
Whether it’s your wedding day or a portrait session, getting your photo taken taken and having a lot of fun actually go hand in hand.
Most couples spend months planning every detail of their wedding, then worry the whole day about whether their photographer is getting the shot.
that’s backwards
When you book me, the photos are off your plate completely.
You're not running through mental shot lists or wondering if the photos are actually going to turn out. You're 100% confident they will. Which means you can actually be present instead of stressing about being underwhelmed by your gallery.
I'm already three steps ahead while you're focused on soaking up the moment. That's the whole point—you get to experience your wedding while I make sure every last drop of emotion ends up in your gallery.
Feel your best.
I know exactly where the light hits, how to angle you, and what makes you love the way you look. You don't have to think about any of it—that's what you're paying me for.
Never miss a beat.
That fleeting look between you two, your dad tearing up, your friends going absolutely feral on the dance floor—I'm catching all of it. While you're busy being present, I'm busy making sure the tears, the laughs, and the in-between moments all make it into your gallery.
Stare at your photos
(again and again).
Every image feels like it belongs, even when you go from intimate ceremony to chaotic reception. My editing style keeps everything harmonious so not a single image feels out of place.
Your Roadmap to Photos You’ll Love
6 steps to get those dream photos.
1. DROP ME A LINE
Fill out the brief inquiry form with the details of your session or wedding.
2. SEE IF WE’RE A FIT
I'll reach back out so we can set up a call – I love connecting with all my portrait and wedding clients before we shoot. For weddings, we can do a video call or grab coffee if you're local.
3. Sign on the dotted line
Pay your deposit and sign your contract and its official-official. Let’s make some magic.
4. Plot photo perfection
We'll plan allllll the details. Timeline, location, outfits – whatever you need. We can brainstorm the perfect spot together, use one of your favorites, or check out my location guide with examples from each place. I love shooting outside and know all the best spots in the Carolinas— and I don't gatekeep a thing.
5. Lights, camera, magic
Show up to your session or step into your wedding day ready to shine. I’ll walk you through exactly how to pose so it feels natural and easy breezy. No need to prep beforehand. Just wear something comfy that you feel confident in.
6. Gallery day!
You’ll receive your final images and will use your download credits to pick your faves. Within 4 weeks for portraits, within 8 weeks for weddings
I’m here to change the way you feel about getting your picture taken.
hEY, I’m Kelly!
At Balsam, your photos won’t just look great– you’ll feel great while you’re getting them taken. All you need to focus on is showing up with an open-mind (and your fave outfit) and I’ll handle the rest. Seriously. No need to google poses beforehand, stress about the weather, or let a stray hair ruin your confidence.
This is where experience + artistry intersect to create photos you’ll feel psyched about.
40 years from now you’re going to wish you had a picture of that.
The small moments make for the most important photos.
You probably don’t remember too, too much about being 6 years old. But when you look back at photos of you playing with your Barbies or Hot Wheels it’s easier to step back into that frame of mind.
Photos are the closest thing we have to time machines and the easiest way to do your memories justice.
When you’re 70, you’re going to wish you had incredible wedding photos or portraits celebrating yourself at every stage.
