My belief is that everybody should be celebrated, and that you deserve to be in photos, too.
I truly treasure quality time and hold onto good memories because those moments are what get me through the tough times.
Hello! I'm Kristen.
Originally from Southern California, I have been living and working abroad since 2009: Philippines, Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and now in Dubai.
I really believe in the value on building community and family no matter where you are and photography has been a wonderful avenue for me to meet and create with others.
When everything is on our phones or in some mysterious "cloud", I want to be able to give you a real treasure, something to have and to hold as you look back on your incredible life.
About me
I'm from a small town called Moorpark, California. My father is Japanese-American while my mother is Chinese-Malaysian, which means I grew up loving all kinds of food!
Growing up in a big family (my dad is one of six), I grew up with lots of cousins and every holiday was an excuse to get together! I definitely find comfort in a bit of noise and chaos, which is why I am super comfortable with high energy kids and having random drop-ins (just don't mind the mess!).
My husband is Japanese-British and together we have two mixed-up, fun, adorable kids who I spend all my time with if I'm not creating or photographing. Family life is super important to me, and I want my children to be able to look back and see the beautiful, still moments between their crazy growth and schedules (with Mom in photos with them!).
I pull inspiration and enthusiasm from you and your stories; what are the details that make up your history and how do you interact with the people you love every day? I get invested in my families and it's such an honor to be able to capture you in the here and now.
I am here for you
Why did I choose photography?
I found my way to photography (professionally) through my own struggles with postpartum anxiety and depression. This experience made me realize just how isolating motherhood can be (in addition to living abroad without family nearby).
I didn't have family or friends with children nearby, so I started to connect with other mothers and encourage this "village" mentality. I know that talking about depression and mental health can seem intense and even taboo, but women deserve a safe space where we can just be—where we don’t have to hold it all together and act like everything is fine.
I never had maternity photos for myself, so I started taking them for friends and acquaintances who become pregnant. It was my way of celebrating and making a fuss over them.
For me, it’s about being more than just someone with a camera; I want to be a friend, a cheerleader, and a safe place.
Whether you’re expecting, a new mom, or further along in your journey, I’m here to capture your resilience, your grace, and those real, raw moments. You deserve to be celebrated, and I’m here to make sure you feel seen in the most genuine way.
What happens during a session?
Love & JoyMy sessions are meant to be intentionally present, authentic and true.
On the day of, we will usually start with some guided positions before doing something more activity based. All those gorgeous, candid photos usually include some movement and enthusiasm with a sense of humor.
Very rarely will you be posing and looking into my camera, children are never forced to smile, we will take breaks as needed, and it will be the most relaxed photo session you will ever experience.
What is the booking process like?
Connect
Does my work resonate with you? Send an inquiry about your preferred dates with details about who would be involved.
Sign Contract
After answering questions, a contract will be sent summarizing all details of the session. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
Retain your date
Full payment confirms your booking date. If you choose to wait after 48 hours, the date is released for others to book.
You're booked!
My favorite part: we will hop on a video or phone call to brainstorm and discuss all your ideas for the session. We will go over wardrobe, styling, location, mood boards, and more!
General FAQ
COVID-19 details
I am triple vaxxed, will take a RAT the morning of our session and am happy to wear a mask during the entirety of our time together.
Cancellations
Things happen and don't always go to plan. Please notify me at least 48 hours prior if you'd like to reschedule. If there is a cancellation in less than 48 hours, the retainer will not be refunded and a new retainer fee will be required for a new booking date.
Reschedulings will be based on both our availabilities and I do my best to accommodate.
Of course, special considerations are given for maternity and newborn sessions.
What should I wear?
Prior to our session, we will have a video or phone consultation discussing wardrobe and location. I should have a style guide ready to send out soon!
I'm not good at posing...
I am here for you! While we don't do a lot of "posey-poses" I will prompt or guide you so that we can capture you at your best. We will snap a few "Christmas Card" photos at the start and move on.
How do the packages work?
Each package includes a number of photos that you will be able to download directly. I hand-edit every photo and create a gallery for you to preview. From there, you may select the photos you'd like to download directly.
If you'd like to upgrade your package, please let me know.
How will you deliver the photos?
You will receive a private gallery of high-res JPG images that will be sharable with friends and family (just share the code with them). Keep in mind that the chosen images can only be downloaded once.
How long does it it take to receive the photos?
I aim to have them sent to you within three weeks, with sneak peeks posted on my Instagram!
