Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariah Kelly.
Hi Mariah, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
just like anyone else – i wanted photographs of my senior year. through my senior sessions, i became close to my photographer (shoutout Lindsay Kate) and she gave me the random but impactful opportunity to second shoot a wedding with her. i always was a creative, but that day the passion was seeded. we got to be apart of someone’s most important day of their life and capture a fleeting day that is so meaningful, so they can return to that moment forever through photographs. i knew how special a job like this was, and the ability to be creative, social, and curate someone’s vision with detail…i knew i belonged in the photography environment. its such an honor to be apart of people’s story!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
no! it never is. honestly, as a creative, i’ve connected with many who struggle with the inner battle of not feeling “ready” — creative fields like photography can feel quite over saturated and you’re always comparing. i think this has unfortunately held me back in some ways. through each new session, i become more confident and find what makes my work set apart, and each session challenges me in a new way. being self taught warrants tons of mistakes, but it’s truly the best way to learn.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
i do photography in the middle tennessee area! i offer lifestyle milestone sessions, such as engagements, maternity, new born, weddings, couples, branding, seniors, and events. all of the moments that are special and deserved to be remembered. i brand my photography as a warm-to-true color editorial style, and i ensure the vision is met. i’m most proud of being self taught, and i think what sets me apart from others is ensuring i get the in between moments that make you remember how it felt, not just posed to be something staged.
What were you like growing up?
growing up, i was always creative, loud, making people laugh, lighting up a room, and finding little ways to bring my imagination to life. from making up stories to recording vlogs, crafting, and DIY-ing home decor, creativity has always been a part of who i am. the way i express it has changed over the years, but my love for creating has never gone away. i’ve been called a jack of all trades my whole life due to wanting a hand in every corner, especially creative — as of lately that’s been sewing, crafting, fashion and styling, baking, digital design, event planning, and home decorating. my mom calls me “ray of sunshine” from my middle name Rae — and with all my creative passions and being naturally optimistic and social, photography feels like the perfect combination of everything i love: creativity, connection, storytelling, and the little details that make life beautiful.
Pricing:
- 1 hour session $250
- Fall 2026 special – $100 30 minute sessions
- Wedding packages offered
- Social Media Content offered
Contact Info:
- Instagram: bymariahkelly
- Other: email: mariahkellyphoto@gmail.com
