Proudly serving Mendocino County, Sonoma County, Marin County, Half Moon Bay, Monterey County, and beyond. Available for travel to capture your story wherever it takes you.
Authentic. Emotional. Timeless. Storytelling Photography
CAPTURING MOMENTS ACROSS NORTHERN & SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Hello, I'm Mary Lee, Your Photographer
The Heart Behind the Lens
My name is Mary Lee, and photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Born in Napa, CA, and raised in Petaluma and Santa Rosa, I grew up surrounded by creativity. Both of my grandfathers worked in the music and movie industries, and their artistry—along with the talents of other family members—inspired my lifelong love for storytelling through images. From those early influences came a deep passion for preserving memories that last a lifetime.
Every name has a story — and mine begins with family.
Mary Lee,
A Name, A Legacy, A Love Story
I was given the name Mary Lee in honor of my first cousin — my namesake — someone whose heart and creativity helped shape the very roots of who I am. The name also carries the memory of my great uncle and aunt, two people who showed what it looks like to love deeply, live fully, and cherish the people who matter most.
Growing up, I didn’t just hear stories about them…
I felt them — in the laughter at family gatherings, the photos framed on the walls, the values passed down like precious heirlooms. My name became a living reminder that I came from strength, kindness, and art.
Timeless Portraits, Heartfelt Stories
Based out of beautiful Mendocino County, CA, I am a professional boutique portrait photographer with over 30 years of experience. I specialize in creating timeless portraits that celebrate life’s most meaningful moments—weddings, engagements, families, children, seniors, and pets. My work also extends to sports photography, collaborations with emerging music artists, and volunteering with local school music programs. Beyond portraits, my love for travel and landscapes continues to inspire my artistry and creative vision.
Capturing the Heart of Every Family
As a wife, mother, grandmother, and pet owner, I bring a warm, personal touch to every project. My goal is to create stunning wall art and heirloom albums that allow you to relive your memories in a way that feels as vivid and heartfelt as the day they were made. At Mary Lee’s Photography, it’s my honor to help you celebrate life’s milestones and turn them into lasting treasures.
A Few of my favorite things
When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll usually find me discovering new coffee spots, out on a walk with my dog Ash Man, exploring somewhere I’ve never been, or enjoying time with my family. Those simple, everyday joys fuel my creativity and keep me inspired to capture the beauty in real moments.
The Moments That Matter Most
The Moments That Matter Most
As I look back on this Christmas from years ago, I’m reminded just how quickly time passes. My daughter was celebrating her birthday, and my sweet granddaughter was just a baby — bundled up in holiday cheer, surrounded by love, laughter, and the soft glow of Christmas lights.
Those days felt so full — of joy, of togetherness, of life’s simple magic. And yet, as the years go by, I realize how fleeting those moments really are. Children grow, seasons change, and memories can fade — unless we take the time to capture them.
That’s why photography is so close to my heart. It’s more than just taking pictures; it’s about preserving the love, connection, and warmth that make up our lives. A photograph can take you back to a specific feeling — the sound of laughter, the smell of pine, the sparkle in a child’s eyes.
When I look at these images now, I’m filled with gratitude. They remind me that every season of life is worth remembering, and every family story deserves to be told. So don’t wait for the “perfect” moment — sometimes the most beautiful memories happen when you simply pause to appreciate the moment you’re in.
✨ A Season to Cherish ✨
