Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Lamar.
Hi Stephanie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a portrait and elopement photographer based in Death Valley, CA but I sure took a roundabout way of getting here. I grew up in New Jersey, went to Syracuse University, and ended up with a career in political fundraising (while secretly wanting to start a photography business).
Then, I got engaged and my husband-to-be secured a job in Death Valley National Park. I knew it was time to make A Big Change. I left my job and picked up the camera.
When I was planning my own wedding in 2021 I was stressed out of my mind. The mile-long to-do list, the family dynamics, the pressure to make it a perfect day… Eventually, we scrapped it all and decided to elope outdoors in the Southwest with just our immediate family present. It was heartfelt, laid back, beautiful, full of laughter and love, and great food. I don’t regret a single thing.
The photographs from that day are now my most prized possessions. When I look at them I am transported back to a moment in time when I felt so loved and so free. And let me tell you, that is priceless. This is what I want to give to my clients! The whole experience was transformative and led me to focus on outdoor adventure elopements and portrait sessions.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been more like a rollercoaster than a road. Leaving an established, stable job to pursue a creative path prompts a lot of raised eyebrows (even from loved ones).
On a heavier note, I lost my mom to brain cancer at the end of 2021. Moving to Death Valley, plus new business, plus grief equals a lot of tears.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in adventure portrait sessions and adventure elopements. My favorite thing to photograph is people in love exploring an epic landscape. There is something magical about the vast landscapes found in our national parks. The grandness of the land matches the grandness of love. Is there a better setting to commit yourself to someone forever?
When I say “adventure elopements,” most people think of long strenuous hikes to distant cliffs. But I want people to understand that adventure elopements are for everyone. Hiking is not required. In fact, the most popular and stunning locations in Death Valley require little to no hiking at all. If you want to dial up the adventure without a hike, you could also consider other unique modes of transportation like a helicopter, a Jeep, a kayak, a seaplane, or a horse… the options are truly endless.
Your day should be everything you want and nothing that you don’t. If you want your wedding to be close to nature, elegant, and relaxed then I want to hear from you!
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memories are all from summers spent at a lake house in the Adirondack Mountains. Kayaking on the calm morning water, making s’mores around a campfire, picking wild raspberries for ice cream…
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stephlamarphoto.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/stephlamarphoto
Image Credits
Stephanie Lamar Photography
