ABOUT THE ARTIST

My love for photography began with a film camera and the people I loved most.

When my daughter was born, I started photographing her and my other children, wanting to preserve the little moments of childhood—the laughter, expressions, personalities, and memories that seemed to pass by so quickly. What began as a way to document my own family soon grew into something much more.

I was largely self-taught, learning through experience and from photographers in my family who encouraged my creativity. Over the years, I continued to develop my skills through education, hands-on experience, and studying both photography and photography marketing.

Some of my earliest photography opportunities came through volunteer work. Before long, people began asking me to photograph their families and special moments. I realized that something I loved could become a way to serve others through my art, and my journey as a professional photographer began.

FROM FILM TO DIGITAL

I still remember taking my rolls of film to the lab and waiting to see what I had captured. There was always a little excitement—and sometimes a little nervousness—in waiting for those photographs to come back.

The lab was often impressed by my photographs and by how little editing they needed. That gave me confidence in my ability to create a strong image in camera and taught me to pay close attention to light, composition, timing, and the moment itself.

When I eventually made the switch from film to digital, I was nervous at first. I had spent years learning to trust my camera and carefully consider every frame, and digital photography felt like an entirely new world.

But I quickly discovered a whole new range of creative possibilities.

Digital photography gave me more freedom to refine my images and bring my artistic vision to life while still carrying the skills and discipline I learned through my years of shooting film.

Today, I bring both experiences with me. I still believe in creating a strong photograph in camera, but I also love the creative possibilities that come with digital photography and thoughtful post-production.

WHY I PHOTOGRAPH

After more than 30 years behind the camera, my love for photography has never been just about taking pictures.

It's about preserving stories.

It's about the way a parent looks at their child, a child's personality shining through, the connection between family members, or the special bond between a person and their pet.

Those are the moments I want to preserve.

I specialize in family, infant, children, and pet photography, with a fine-art storytelling approach that allows me to create images that are natural, meaningful, and personal to each family.

My goal is to create photographs that don't just show what your family looked like at a particular moment in time, but photographs that bring you back to how that moment felt.

FAQ

What are your hours?

Mary Lee's Photography is available by appointment so each session receives the time and attention it deserves. Hours vary based on session type and location.

Where are you located?

Mary Lee's Photography is located in Willits, California, and serves clients throughout the surrounding areas. I’m available for elopements, engagement photography, maternity, family, senior portraits, pet photography, and music artist photography.

Do you accept reservations?

Yes. Reservations are recommended, but not necessary, especially for elopement and engagement photography. When possible, make reservations for, maternity, family, seniors, pet photography and music artist photography.

What payment options do you accept?

Payment options are shared during booking, so the process stays clear and convenient. I accept all major credit cards and Venmo. If you have questions about securing your session, Mary Lee is happy to help.

How long is the typical wait?

Turnaround time varies by session type, but every gallery is edited with care and delivered as efficiently as possible. Mary Lee will share a timeline when you book.

Do you have a cancellation policy?

Yes. A cancellation policy is provided at booking to keep expectations clear and protect your reserved time. Please reach out with any questions before confirming your session.

YOUR STORY MATTERS

I believe your family deserves photographs that reflect who you really are.

Your children will grow, your family will change, and life will continue moving forward. The photographs we create together give you something tangible to hold onto—something you can display in your home, share with the people you love, and return to years from now.

For me, photography is about more than creating beautiful images.

It's about creating something meaningful that becomes part of your family's story.

I'm honored every time a family invites me to be part of that story.

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