My Story

Brett Elizabeth Tryon smiles for self portrait

It all started in high school...

I can still remember roaming the halls with my Nikon film camera, snapping black and white portraits of all my new friends. Then, under the red lights of the dark room, I discovered the thrill of watching my images come to life. I was hooked.

Over the years I dabbled in portraits, landscapes, bird photography — you name it. Even though I went to college to study ecosystem management, I spent much of my spare time taking pictures. I created elaborate sets in my dorm room, wrangling fellow students to model for me. I documented field trips and joined the school photography club. Then, during my early career in bird research, I photographed my travels — the people, landscapes, and birds I encountered. As my career meandered, one thing remained constant: my passion for photography.

In 2015, everything changed: I became a mom. I was so in love with my new baby, so in awe of her every move, I wanted to preserve every moment. I was taking more pictures than ever before, and I’d found a new art form: newborn photography. As my daughter grew (and I had another), I started photographing other children and families. This time it stuck. I finally decided, after all these years, to pursue my passion for portrait photography.

My first child, 2015

Newborn baby on a fuzzy blanket looks at the camera

While I love all genres of photography, portraiture is what lights me up. I get to connect with people, learn about their lives, and help them tell their stories. I get to capture the joyful chaos of family life and the beautiful bond between loved ones.

Portraiture takes empathy, humility, and curiosity. I care about each and every person in front of my lens. And it shows. Whether it’s a headshot or an outdoor family session, my portraits capture people at ease and being themselves. And there’s nothing more beautiful than that.