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about

Alive in the Lens is about more than beautiful images — it’s about creating a space where you, your story, and your brand feel truly seen, honored, and anchored.

My work is rooted in a deep reverence for the human experience, creating a comfortable experience, and helping commemorate and honor meaningful thresholds we cross throughout our lives. This foundational focus on grounded, presence enriches every creative project behind the lens. Beyond personal branding, I specialize in transition portraiture — holding intentional space for individuals and couples navigating major life shifts, including intimate elopements, career pivots, relationship evolutions, personal identity milestones, and major life chapters.
 

That same spirit of presence, authentic expression, and empowerment extends to the commercial world. With over 16 years of specialized experience in the wine industry and two decades in strategic marketing, graphic design, and brand storytelling, I understand how to translate a high-level vision into compelling visuals that resonate deeply with an audience. My passion is creating lasting visual impact for entrepreneurs, change makers, and purpose-driven businesses.


This holistic ethos connects seamlessly to my broader work as the founder of Hearts Alive Yoga, Coaching, Women's Circles, and Retreats. Whether facilitating an immersive retreat or guiding a custom photo session, the goal remains identical: to co-create an authentic, relaxed, and safe environment where your true self and brand essence can emerge without pressure or performance.


I bring a grounded, intuitive presence to every session — whether capturing the quiet intimacy of an elopement, the strength of a personal life milestone, the rich heritage of California’s wine country, or the heart of an emerging brand.

Whether you are navigating a profound personal shift, forming a union with another, launching a new venture, or stepping into your next chapter, I am here to help bring your visual story to life.
 

Suzanna (she/her)

WHAT I CAPTURE

Alive in the Lens offers specialized photography services across Northern California, focusing on personal milestones, intimate gatherings, and purpose-driven visuals to support corporate and brand storytelling. 
 

Embodied Transitions Portraiture & Identity Photography

Documenting pivotal life thresholds in a safe, trauma-informed, and affirming space. Specialty portrait sessions include:
 

  • Gender Transitions & Identity Journeys:
    Celebrating authenticity and personal evolution.

     

  • Reclamation & New Chapters:
    Honoring major milestones, relationship shifts, and personal growth.

     

  • Milestones & Coming-of-Age:
    Capturing young adults stepping into their next phase of life.

     

Intimate Weddings & Courthouse Elopements

Capturing authentic connection, quiet magic, and raw joy for micro-weddings and small-scale celebrations (up to 20 guests).
 

  • Locations Covered:
    Northern California courthouses, city halls, and intimate outdoor ceremonies.

     

  • Coverage:
    Civil ceremonies, elopement portraiture, and small family gatherings.

     

Food, Agriculture & Craft Beverage Photography

Visual storytelling for the agricultural, culinary, and beverage industries—drawing on 16+ years of specialized wine industry experience.
 

  • Farm-to-table imagery, craft beverage production, and vineyard/farm landscapes.
     

  • Culinary styling, artisan food portraiture, and commercial product imagery.
     

Commercial, Events & Custom Visual Projects

Dynamic visual storytelling for brands, architecture, and specialized commercial clients across California.
 

  • Corporate Headshots & Branding:
    Authentic portraits for founders, teams, and creatives.

     

  • Architecture & Commercial Design:
    Interior, exterior, and spatial photography.

     

  • Live Events & Action Photography:
    Gatherings, community events, and high-energy documentary coverage.

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FEATURED IN

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