When I first met Sam, I immediately noticed her infectious energy! Her passion for photography and commitment to making her clients have fun in front of her camera shines through everything she does. We’re so lucky to have her on the Celisia Stanton Photography team, and she’s a great addition to any wedding day.

Check out Sam’s Q+A below, and when you’re done you can see her full associate portfolio here.

How long have you been a photographer?

I’ve been a professional photographer for 8 years, with my focus being weddings, lifestyle, and editorial portraits!

Tell us about your journey in photography so far! How long have you been a photographer? How many weddings have you shot? What have you learned along the way?

I come from a long line of artists (graphic designers, textile artists, musicians, you name it!) so pursuing my passion for photography as a career just seemed like the natural next step. I grew up in Madison WI and moved to the Twin Cities to study photography at the Minneapolis College of Art & Design and have been working as a freelance photographer in the cities ever since.

I loved my time in art school – the creative and technical mentoring was beyond valuable, and my fine art background has allowed me to work on fashion campaigns for Gucci and assignments for New York Times Magazine. I love bringing that stylized experience to my weddings, and blending it with a candid approach that hits the sweet spot for timelessly capturing your day. With 20+ weddings under my belt, I know that hands down the best photographer for YOU will be the person that you enjoy having around and who puts you at ease. So if you want to meet before booking for a coffee or a phone call, I would love nothing more!

What’s your favorite part of being an associate for Celisia Stanton Photography?

I love working for Celisia because of the inclusive work culture she’s developed and down to earth clients she attracts. I feel very aligned with her approach to weddings, and I prioritize creating meaningful connections with clients, so becoming an associate photographer seemed like a perfect fit. Above all, she is so kind, personable, and organized which is the dream combination. What more could you ask for?!

What’s your favorite part of a wedding day to capture?

There’s nothing quite like the moment when a couple finally sees each other at their wedding. A lot of the morning is spent apart from your lover, getting ready for the big day, so the relief and happiness when you get to see your person is so special.

However, a close second is when family and friends who haven’t seen each other in ages get to reunite. The initial gasp, excitement, and hugging that ensues is so joyful – even when I don’t know the backstory, I am so excited to be there to document those important moments. You spend a lot of time planning who gets to attend your big day, so I do my best to make sure everyone gets a little time in front of the camera.

What’s your go-to wedding day advice for soon-to-be-married couples?

You’ll have a lot of people showing up for your big day: put them to good use! That means that I don’t want to see you trying to track down Auntie’s purse because she left it at the reception. Not your job! You’re supposed to be in love and soaking up the great party you’ve spent months planning. Pass off that task to one of your people (especially me! I’ll make sure it gets done!) and then get back to enjoying your day.

What would you say to a couple who is nervous about having their picture taken?

Welcome to the club! You, and literally everyone I’ve ever photographed, have expressed this sentiment. Part of being a professional photographer is helping clients feel at ease, so I promise I’ll be there to keep things light and fun, and help bring out that calm and confident side to yourself!

Are you a cat person, a dog person, or neither? Why?

I’m a sucker for all the fuzzy animals to be honest. I grew up with a gorgeous golden retriever (stinkiest breath with the biggest smile, dog people you know what I’m talking about) and now my partner has the sweetest tuxedo who has stolen my heart! Hot take, but I actually love cows – if I could hang out with a cow and pet their nose for an hour I’d be so happy.