africa through my portrait lens

Amanda Wyse • October 5, 2022

Recently, my husband Drew and I traveled to Kenya with group of incredible humans represented by Kids Alive International.

We went as guests of our friends + mentors who encouraged us to join them-- a married couple 30 years our senior, who have experienced life with beauty and love, trial and imperfection, and now exude wisdom and understanding into our life like no one else has. They are invaluable to us. We knew this trip would be good, solely because of being with them!

What we didn't know, was, that we would see another part of this world that we immediately loved. We didn't know we'd meet so many incredible, God fearing people, on our team and nationals to Kenya. That we would experience first hand an organization doing so much good, in Jesus' name, rescuing children from poverty, fostering change in individual lives and culture alike. That we'd be amidst so much hope. That we'd leave inspired and encouraged. We didn't know!

We also didn't have any idea what we were in for on our three day safari (!!!). It was incredible. I'm talking, jaw dropping landscape, wildlife for miles and miles and miles, elephants for days, rivers filled with hippos (okay, one river. but it was FULL of hippos!) Guys. It was so amazing!

There's just too much to tell in a single blog post. But as I do with most life experiences, I'm going to attempt to describe it through photographs. And I encourage you, if you are curious to learn more about Kids Alive, Kenya, or traveling in general, just ask! I love to share and connect through my experiences.

I hope you enjoy Africa through my lens!

Faces of Humanity

Portraits of people from around the globe

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Nature's Symphony

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{sidenote, I was so drawn to the above tree, and photographed it many times. It's called Crown of Thorns-- the type of tree used for Christ's crown of thorns placed on his head when he was mocked by the Jews, later to be crucified, buried, and rise again.}

Faces of Humanity

Portraits of people from around the globe

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Nature's Symphony

Breathtaking colors of our planet

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Faces of Humanity

Portraits of people from around the globe

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Nature's Symphony

Breathtaking colors of our planet

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Faces of Humanity

Portraits of people from around the globe

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Nature's Symphony

Breathtaking colors of our planet

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Faces of Humanity

Portraits of people from around the globe

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Nature's Symphony

Breathtaking colors of our planet

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Faces of Humanity

Portraits of people from around the globe

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Nature's Symphony

Breathtaking colors of our planet

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thanks for sticking around till the end!

amanda

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monthly prints + memory box

By Amanda Kay Wyse • November 6, 2024

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we’re moving y’all

By Amanda Wyse • October 18, 2022

Oh hey there! Checking in here on the blog for a big family update 😊

annabelle + jacob | detroit

By Amanda Wyse • October 17, 2022

A+J got engaged at the end of 2021, and we were able to execute their engagement photo session within those those first couple of weeks! Even in the cold, engagement photos are always a GOOD idea!! Let’s roll it back. Their story is one I don’t think we hear very often these days, and it’s real good. They met + got acquainted via handwritten letters, while J was away at boot camp. One of A’s friends encouraged J to take a chance, and over weeks + months they continued the conversation on instagram and eventually over the phone. When they finally got to meet in person, they knew they wanted to keep pursuing valuable time together! And here they are now, planning to marry ☺️ Being asked to photograph their engagement and eventually their wedding is an incredible honor. You’ll be seeing more of them, no doubt! Stay warm! xo, amanda kay

callum | newborn

By Amanda Wyse • October 16, 2022

You guys. 2020 came and went and I published a total of four whole blog posts, all before May, and then went straight up silent. (I did stay current on instagram — check that out here if you’re interested.) It’s safe to say this global pandemic has taken a toll on my motivation to blog. I am grateful, however, that this does not mean I wasn’t out there capturing you all— I certainly was, more than any other year! I am back here to say, wow, where did the time go? and also, I still have pretty pictures to share and really want to share them with you! This session is one of my absolute favorite newborn sessions as of late. You will quickly see that the O’Donnel’s home was the ideal backdrop for crisp, bright, beautiful photographs. Truthfully, it was a photographers dream! Enjoy this precious family and let me know what you think! xo, amanda kay

harbour annelies | newborn

By Amanda Wyse • October 15, 2022

Last week I met Harbour; she is the sweetest addition to her family, whom I met in July for their maternity+family session. I love meeting new babies in their home surrounded by their loved ones. I love witnessing parents in their first couple of days or weeks as they adjust to this new human in their arms and in their hearts. And I’m honored to be trusted to capture it. Do you have photographs from when your baby was just born? I have very few with me in them, but the ones I do have, I cherish. I don’t want to forget that version of me, or them. I want to remember the feeling of holding the little human who I labored over to get into this world, healing me with every snuggle and coo. I want to remember that new version of me who was so drastically different than just days before, when I hadn’t yet met this tiny life. I hope you enjoy this little snippet of the Arntson’s new normal captured in these photographs! xo amanda

azoni family | at home

By Amanda Wyse • October 14, 2022

Last fall, the Azoni family invited me into their home for a lifestyle family session. It was so precious to document them in their space. Because of the comfort of their own home, the girls were able to quickly warm up to me and we ended up having a blast. I wanted to share this session because I believe that one day in the future, this type of work will be possible again. Amidst a global pandemic that is honestly making this concept seem foreign, I choose to look back at this sweet time in these photos while looking forward and believing more of that is to come. I miss you, friends. All of you. You’ll also see we ventured outside, in the snow, for a few shots too (It is also currently snowing, today, in April, so…there’s that.). Stay safe, stay home, and see you soon, friends. xo amanda

jax | milestone

By Amanda Wyse • October 13, 2022

In an effort to keep things pretty and positive over here at a.k.wyse photo+design, I’m going to use some of my time off from sessions to bring to you all blog posts from recent sessions. First, coming at you on his 2nd birthday, is Jax’s milestone / mommy+me session that we thankfully got in before his birthday and before the shutdown. Isn’t he such a cool little dude?! Tell me, how are you holding up, friends?

augustine's birthday | birth at home

By Amanda Wyse • October 12, 2022

When Vanessa invited me to capture her birth, I was counting down the days till that babe was born. Being part of such an intimate occasion was such an honor! On that winter afternoon, she let me know when she was pretty certain labor pains had begun. It was only a mere 4 hours later that Augustine arrived! All 9 pounds 4 ounces of him! It was such a whirlwind and I’m so impressed with the female body. Vanessa, you are a warrior. I’m so proud of you! Vanessa was kind enough to write a testimonial: “I am so thankful to Amanda for being present at Auggie’s birth, one of life’s most precious moments. After my births, since my brain is usually in a fog along with sleepless nights and visitors, I can sort of lose the memories. These photos capture the intensity and emotion of such a sacred moment. I'm able to look back at these photos in such awe and emotion, especially as I write my birth story and begin to remember details that I couldn't have without the pictures. This is my last baby and I only wish I could've had such a beautiful and detailed memory as I do now with Auggie’s photos. For this, I am forever thankful. Thank you for the gorgeous photos Amanda! Thanks for shooting Auggies birth announcement, maternity photos, birth & newborn photos (what a journey). Thanks for having mimosas ready for two sleepy parents as we came with our troops for family photos ;) you're the best!” Thank you to this family for letting me capture such a special occasion, and for being gracious enough to encourage me to share it here!

sloane | newborn

By Amanda Wyse • October 11, 2022

Meet Sloane! She’s well over a month old now, but I had the pleasure of meeting her after her first week of being born! She was so sleepy, which honestly, has been rare for my newborns these days. It was so precious to capture her peaceful self during her session. I was invited to document Maureen and Nate’s journey in pregnancy and then once baby arrived— this, friends, is my favorite. I love being able to capture your story along the way! Thanks for inviting me in! xo amanda

augustine palmer | newborn

By Amanda Wyse • October 10, 2022

On his 4 week birthday, I’d love to introduce you to Auggie! Or Augustine Palmer, more properly. I had a blast having him and his adoring siblings and hero parents in my studio— my biggest group yet, at 8! come back soon, simkins! xo amanda

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we went for a coffee walk and I brought my camera. that’s really all it takes to have photographs you’ll want to share and print and cherish 🫶🏼✨

I replied “send some emails and edit a session!” both of which I have done BTW, but first things first 🤭 ribbon from a local shop @shopmodernmanor prints by the lovely @breanneweston

thanksgiving is this week?! as I’m prepping for guests, and planning the menu, I’m listing what i’m grateful for over and over in my head ✨ what are you grateful for? ☺️

there are 3️⃣ of these hats left, begging to be worn ✨ help me clear the shelf so I can make room for something new I’m scheming up! comment FULL MOON and i’ll send you directly to the shop 🌕 (did you get to see the full moon this weekend?! 🤩 we got to watch it come up at my favorite place 😭🫶🏼) also, shout out to my husband who I’m slowly learning to trust when I hand him the camera !! @drewwyse

It was a hair-in-your-face + golden light + perfect clouds situation out there earlier this week ✨

uhhhh, more sessions here please 🥰 I am so incredibly grateful for this work. I won’t stop saying it ✨

I’ve always spent the time to remove objects/people/distractions from the final edits for my clients— who wants a black trash can in the background of their beloved family photographs? lately tho, with @lightroom ’s new generative AI feature, I have had the opportunity to take more creative risks with my clients (like this location!), knowing removing said objects will be quick and easy in my post shoot workflow. I’m hooked. This isn’t an ad but it should be 😂 I felt the need today to share with my friends that AI can have its perks. what’s your take? how are you using AI? photog or not, tell me your thoughts in the comments!

you *need* it 🤠 the 2025 fine art calendar is ready for pre-order and I’m smitten with it. the photographs this year are featuring some of my favorite places like wyoming, detroit, and greece, to name a few! it really is that spark of joy that lasts all year and beyond ✨ comment CALENDAR and i’ll send you straight to the shop 👏🏼 hope you are enjoying the best month of the year 😏 💙 amanda kay

gems from september in michigan 🥰 going into my second fall here in SC, I am SO looking forward to all the families who have trusted me, some for the first time and some for the second ☺️ if you’re still reading, would you pray for all the people who have been affected by Hurricane Helene and those who are in the path of Hurricane Milton? my heart breaks for them. Lord have mercy, Lord be near.

back to back b+w posts, whoops! i’m just over here, trying to share work that i’m proud of and that might make you feel something— and this is it. and no surprise to anyone, I love newborn photographs in black and white! it’s sort of a fun week for me ahead for me 😉 feeling gratitude ahead of it! hope your week is excellent ✨ 💙 amanda kay

backyard hangs in black + white 😍😎 I am behind on my usual 2 week turnaround for gallery deliveries— calling myself out AND want to thank clients for their exceptional patience 💙 delivering these today, @er1n13 😊

these *needed* a permanent place on the the feed. honestly, it’s some of my best newborn work as of late. I am so grateful for friends who invite me to do my work, to be creative, and who communicate so much trust along the way ✨ 💙 auntie amanda

this chop was premeditated for about a month, I swear 😆 I almost can’t believe it and also i’m maybe a different person now?! *PSA drama added because I had just gone for a walk and the humidity is real, folks* and honestly this is my least favorite taylor song but the audio was just too good. ✂️by the best @jenviahair

🎶 music to my ears! ✨ Let’s hang out at home. It’s casual it’s YOU. feeling courageous enough to do an in home session? I’m already scheming up a guide for it (I already have newborn and family guides that I share when you book with me so you’re confident and prepared!). are you next? Let’s GOOOO! 🤩

still swaying as of today 😆 I love that I get to do this. thank you thank you.

ever have a session from years ago where the images are living rent free in your mind? this one is that. idk if I shared in 2021 but i’m sharing now! bonus, also one of my fave humans 🥰 I’m headed on the road tomorrow for two handfuls of sessions. I am so grateful and I can’t wait to see so many people! have the best week! 💙 amanda kay

yesterday was a Monica in Barbados kind of hair day 😆 but in all seriousness, what do you do when life is too much? often, what are we to do but keep going? to lean on each other? to cry and pray and ask and rest and also persevere? if there’s one thing you need to know about professional me— it’s just me, thru and thru. i’ll be there for you 🎶😌 (see what I did there?)

This summer we went to Colorado and Wyoming. We go there often-ish to visit friends and family, but this year we went to some new places. These are some of my favorite snaps ☺️

between leather bags and furniture, this has certainly been a week to remember 🤭 I had to have a treat to celebrate! it’s the small things 😌 my husband told my daughter this week when she asked about my thrifting— “well, if she bought everything she wanted new, we’d have no money” 🤣🤣 okay he may not be wrong. and saving money is nice. but have you tried it just for the thrill of it?! 😎 file this reel under “other things amanda does that is not photography”. and if you’re curious about what I snagged, comment “FOUND” and i’ll share! special shout out to @michelleharris_wellness for pickup and delivery because the jeep was not big enough for todays find 😂

If you told me 19 years ago we’d be here, I’d have said DUH but not for the reasons I thought then. I could not know. I could not know how much we’d need Jesus, how our stubbornness would bless us and hurt us, how your persistence in pursuit would keep us moving forward. I could not know how much I could love someone, and like them, and also feel so much pain with at the same time 😂 but I know i’m safe and sound. we’re not going anywhere. we’ll be us till the end. gushing over 😉 also, I didn’t photograph the hard times. *this is a highlight reel* also, we wear hats a lot 🤣 Lord willing, this is just the start. I love you, Drew.

ever choose to make lemonade when life gives you lemons? and I don’t just mean add a ton of sugar, guzzle, and move on. i mean lightly sweeten, add pebble ice, and sip on the porch type of lemonade. I think that’s where the metaphor ends 😆 here’s some of the real story: my son and I had a quick trip to NYC planned— concert, high rise hotel, central park stroll, @summitov. you know— dreamy and special and just us. his first time in the big city! our 5am wake up was met with a cancelled flight (big storm?). no flights for days. tears. snuggles. more tears. slow morning. making the decision to make lemonade. we hopped in the jeep and bopped around Charleston (I might add, our beautiful city that might as well be Europe). coffee, treats, cameras in hand. I cried again, not because we weren’t in the city we planned, but because I was with my favorite little dude 🥹 we’ll try to replan the trip. it’d look different (no NYC in august + a concert that went on without us; we’re still sad about that 😔). but we hope it’ll still happen! we don’t know, but we hope. it’s bittersweet AND we’re gonna be okay. now if y’all want to go DM @hiforrest and ask him to come to CHS, i’d be real grateful 🤪💕

senior sesh gold ✨ usually it’s the parent(s) who find me, and put their upcoming senior in front of my lens. but this time, it was Madison. she offered up serious words of affirmation of my work and wanted to work together for her senior session (!!!). so when in michigan, we made it happen! I am so grateful. she is so gorgeous! and chose the best locations!

life is far from perfect. we trust and we take risks and we feel disappointment and we disappoint. but today we were reminded — unforgiveness will rob us of the future we desire and forgiveness can free us up to move forward we don’t have to forget our hurts AND there is healing available in forgiveness maybe you needed to be reminded, too. disclaimer: forgiveness doesn’t always mean reconciliation here. and that’s okay. it hurts, and that’s okay too. I see you. we can still heal and love and look forward. peace to you today, friend. message thanks to Jesus via @seacoastmtp @gregsurratt tysm 💙💙

northern michigan vibes strong 🌊 you’d never know frankie took a catnap on mom’s lap right before this session. she woke up ready! 💕

when I say babies are my favorite, I mean it 🤩 this little lady isn’t a newborn anymore, but can we normalize two month old professional photos? any month is good. great really. but when they’re smiling, it’s extra cute 🥰 (see, last two photographs)

all the fun, real + relatable moments, plus your classic family portrait — this is what family sessions are all about! bonus if you bring your dog, they might just be the star like Mabel here 🤩 my family is headed somewhere special to unplug for a few days (does anyone else feel like this is getting more necessary, more often? I do 🥲) but first, I wanted to share these from my favorite session spot in SE Michigan, with the dearest OG clients (friends 🥰). this nature preserve is always beautiful. sometimes there’s lots of bugs 😅 bless you, friend. 💙 amanda kay

Popping in to remind you that Chelsea is a wizard behind the camera and her *fun facilitating skills* are 10/10 🤩☺️ If you’re in SE Michigan and our schedules didn’t line up this summer, she’s your gal! She does the shooting, I (Amanda) take care of the rest. Win x3! hope your weekend is off the charts 🥳 💙 amanda kay

It cooled off to a brisk 85 for this session 😅☀️ but truly, one of my favorite things about living here is that you really can have a photo shoot outdoors any month of the year! In July we just have to wait for thunderstorms to temporarily cool off the thick air 😂 and if it’s too hot for you, in-home sessions are a great way to document your family, too 🤗

more of these because i’m obsessed 😍 we are spending one of the few weekends this summer at home in Charelston and i’m SO excited about it ✨ cheers to your weekend— may it be whatever you need! 💙 amanda kay

how on earth it has been one year since this day, I will not be able to comprehend 🤯 I don’t often shoot weddings, but when I do, you can be sure it’s for a special duo ☺️ so much love 💙 amanda kay

somehow, part of Wyoming looks like this 🤩 I got to spend an evening exploring a new to me canyon + lake in this beautiful state with these dear friends and it was SO GOOD. If you scroll hundreds of photos down my feed you’ll see these kids as babies (!!) goodness, I am grateful. cheers to the holiday week, y’all. I’ll be camping in the mountains with family— see you next week! 💙 amanda kay

I was told many times early on in this business that I had to niche down to be successful. I struggled with this because it just didn’t fit with what I love to do. I love photographing families year after year. I love a solid 8 hour wedding day. I adore photographing new life and new parents. I’m smitten with being in your homes. I’m honored to contribute an artist’s eye for your website, boutique, or event. I don’t really know how else to convey this? I love it all. also, what is successful, anyway? I love being behind the camera. If you’re there, I love that too. You’ve got a story— let’s tell it together 🥰 💙 amanda kay

documenting these seasons for dear friends pushes me to be creative, makes me explode with joy, and is the greatest honor, all wrapped up together. whew. look at them 😭

I’m posting these because I’m shooting a maternity session this coming weekend and i’m *freaking out* with excitement 😆 Just you wait 😏 These are of the sweet @kaleymorey, taken in January here in Charleston. Yes, this is what it looks like in January! ✨ btw, maternity photos make an excellent gift to expecting mamas 😉

I wish I could tell you why I couldn’t stop crying when dropping my kids off at (day!) camp today 😭🫠 we hit summer HARD (only one week in 😅) work + travel + adventures + the best visitors + emotions + exhaustion + delight + car naps. birthdays + seizing the day + missing friends + pushing ourselves to be flexible + fun (@jhullinger 😏). we have a wild ride ahead and i’m telling you right now, we’ll survive because of prayer. yours and mine. thanks in advance! I am elated for what’s ahead AND doing my best to care for myself right now. letting the tears flow. lying in bed a few extra minutes. taking space to wonder, to read, to stare at the sky. all of it. I am so grateful. if I get to see you this summer, would you let me give you a lingering hug? can’t wait to see you, can’t wait to see what God is going to do ✨ 💙 amanda kay

too soon for another carousel of Greece photos? NAH. happy friday, happy summer ✨ ps: I used @lightroom ‘s new generative AI to remove power lines in photos 3 and 4, a crane in photo 5, and people in photo 10. it saved me so much time on edits I would have done manually. any other photographers using this new feature?!

my summer bucket list includes learning how to crochet a very specific pattern (see photo 8), and, figuring out how+when to get back to greece 🤭 my eyes see these photos and I can’t believe them. it was all so beautiful. even more than the pictures. I wish I was kidding! I am not. cheers to summer ✨ 💙 amanda kay ps, ask anything about any of the photos. they all have a story! 🥰

almost 8 months into weight training + contrast therapy (who am I??) and i’m even running now— after 11 years— with confidence. your body is good— it’s good now, it was good before, and it’ll be good in the future, no matter what happens to it. and if yours feels broken (I get it), I bet there’s healing ahead for you mind + body, too. I felt the nudge to be brave. I reached out to a friend who I knew would get it. she invited me into her rhythms (and I made the time) and we’ve been at it ever since. deeply grateful. positively amazed at my body. wildly in awe of the mind. grateful grateful grateful. what does this have to do with photography, you ask? these rhythms gave me the courage to change up my brand identity to better suit you and me. it has given me fresh vision and energy to serve you. it has renewed my passion that people are beautiful just as they are, our bodies is good, and your season is worth capturing. you matter! you are loved! that’s all 😅 💙 amanda kay

these character portraits have been such a delight! last chance in SC for this spring/summer is May 19– sign up in my bio or comment on this post and I’ll send you the link! ✨

I wonder if— for every supportive comment, every reassurance of being on your team, every message of love, every “I’m proud of you”—how much it could change your life if you believed it? I believe what my people are saying about this rebrand. and it changes how I show up. not because I need them to fill me (I don’t, Jesus does that), not because I need their validation (I don’t, Jesus did that), but because we weren’t meant to do this alone— life, business, anything. we simply cannot do it without each other! would you encourage someone today? This reel is a reminder for me. BUT friends, this rebranding is for you. The outward needed to represent the experience we provide for you here at amanda kay + co. I’m sighing a big sigh of relief, because I finally feel like it does. ✨ (( WEBSITE SOON! ))

to grow. to learn. to say I love you. to take the evening stroll. to discover truth. to feel joy. to document blessing. if you’re reading this—you’ve got breath in your lungs. there’s still time. find time this week ✨ 💙 amanda kay cover photo by the unbelievable @breanneweston

AMANDA KAY + CO is here officially here!! well, sort of 😆 to say this process was harder than I wanted it to be is an understatement. (anyone else have this experience?!) NEW WEBSITE COMING SOON! enjoy this sneak into my branding for now! and please do tell me what you think 🤗👇🏼 (unless you hate it— i’m feeling vulnerable over this extraction of my heart, so just keep that to yourself 🤣) 💙 amanda kay

what a gift this is to me, to get to document y’all. I am forever humbled by every single “yes”. 👀 more michigan dears on the beach. who’s coming next?!

rebranding my business has me VERY emotional, and it happened to occur alongside a vehicle change. I can’t help but be a little grateful for that day in January when God made something really GOOD out of something really crappy and I had to say goodbye to my favorite SUV. because WHO KNEW I belonged in a jeep. truly I did not. I know now 😂✨🥰 freedom panels off forever #iykyk ALSO, I just got the word— I’ll officially have some new branding content to sneak to you next week 🥳 I’m over the MOON! ✨🌙 😉💙 amanda kay

SNAG YOURS NOW! mini character portraits are available! Half of the spots for Mt P are already booked for April 27 🤯 YAY! Thank you so much! UPDATE: I added times on the 28th! Michigan dates are coming soon! In the meantime, tell a friend (or your spouse!) and let’s get you on track for the best mother’s day gift everrrrr 🌼 head to my profile to to sign up! 🫡

mini character portraits are HERE and are so soon!! the perfect gift for mother’s day— I got you!! 🌼 I’ll be opening up one day— April 27th. I’ll potentially add more based on interest! comment DETAILS to get all the info in your inbox 😏 booking will be available Monday! click the reminder button to be the first to book 🔥 I can’t wait to capture your mini character! 🥰 💙 amanda kay

let’s get back to the beach, shall we? As I book travel for summer, I’m excited that we have a bit more SPRING here in Charleston. Spring is the perfect time for a beach photo session! bring your family, friends, or dog! I’ll meet you there 😏 Would you choose beach or city for your session charleston session?

thank me later ✨ @jenviabeauty really knows how to make this mane come back to life 🤩 cover photo by the incredible @breanneweston

this is my friend, Jess (and the @goandtellgals crew!) she is not scared of the days to come. she knows, there are good things ahead. she was tired of being tired— and she knows that you are, too. she wrote, for you and me, a book about realistic rest. rest is available to us because we have a Good Father who already invited us into his Holy Rest. i’ve had the privilege of witnessing the fruit of this life changing practice in Jess’s life. I’ve read the book, I’ve seen it in action, and it’s available to you, too— TOBT IS OUT TUESDAY! if you are tired of being tired, and are ready to say yes to realistic rest, pre order TOBT! join me in changing our lives, in Jesus name? let’s learn how to rest together! 🙌🏼 💜 amanda kay

Truly He is risen! let’s call this reel “mom most certainly did not get her photo” but praise God this day is not about me and I can laugh at my goofy people 😂 today I am grateful for what Christ has done and heartbroken in the waiting. the now and not yet. Christ is risen, He truly is risen, and I praying today that you hear him knocking at your door and invite him in. He wants to be with you.

when I traveled to Indy a couple weeks ago, I got to meet and photograph this precious family 🥹 Today I get to deliver them their gallery and I hope it brings them as much joy as it’s bringing me ✨

excuse me while I obsess over another little life ✨🥰 I am so grateful for the past few days away and I am so glad to be headed home to hug my people. both can be true at once ❤️ it’s a big week over here behind the scenes. hope it’s a great one for you, friend! 💙 amanda kay

friends! dropping in here today to share a bit of life lately—mostly consisting of quality time with my people, practicing real rest, and learning rhythms to promote a stronger body and mind. as you scroll you’ll see the evidence of: backyard fires, celebrating with custard (always), afternoon espresso at home, porch sits in the sun, family game night, sauna + cold plunge + weight lift + legs up the wall (in that order! and nearly always with my soul deep and lighthearted friend 🥰), and rebranding efforts (👀 the name change! 👆🏼more soon!). what you don’t see: walks with my neighbor, working side by side my friend, cruising around in the jeep, taking my coffee back to bed when the kids go to school, so many happy and sad tears, going new places + trying new things, figuring out taxes 😵‍💫, telling everyone I know about that new podcast/book/practice etc, writing in my prayer journal, my feet in the cold sand, and convincing my northern friends to visit 😉 I’m out here doing my best! thanks for being here ☺️ 💙 amanda kay #realrestnow #likelife

can you even believe the beauty in these photographs?! 😭✨ I haven’t been on here much to share my candid thoughts, and I have some for you today, about something i’m learning. lately, I’m learning patience. patience in others. patience in relationships. patience in myself. patience in my work. i’ve found that when I practice it with the help of Jesus, it is a holy pursuit, worthy of practicing. also!! I’ll be in another city photographing the sweetest babes later this week— any guesses where i’m headed?! 💙 amanda kay

what an honor it is to document your love 💕 picking these 10 from 2023 was tough (and I could’ve cried going through those galleries— y’all are such a GIFT!) happy valentine’s day, loves 🫶🏼

This first post of 2024 is getting me SO excited about the year ahead! (Even if it’s already February 🤭🫠) As I continue to establish business in South Carolina, we’ve also decided it’s a great time to rebrand / new website / ALL THE THINGS 😆🤗 So get excited with me, won’t you? It’s happening! I’m equally terrified and giddy! If you’re looking for photos in 2024 + you’re looking for a hype gal to talk you through the most fun and life giving photo session you’ve ever showed up for— I’m your gal! I can’t wait to meet you AND share with you all that’s new. Good things ahead. 💙 amanda kay

In 2023, I set out on a creative project.. on accident. I saw one full moon rise at the beach and my cousin snapped the photo. It was unintentional, the moon sighting and the walking photo. The overwhelming peace and joy and energy I received from that “accident” was earmarked. (I’ve been fascinated with the moon for quite some time, but never took the time to notice it) The next full moon, I decided to attempt to replicate it, my soul longing to for the divine overwhelm again. The third, it turned into a project. The goal was— a walking self portrait at moonrise, beachside. Travel and clouds adjusted the project but the imperfection of the compiled 13 photos is just as it should be. (and since i’ve documented the moon at every phase, too) The moon was always there even if the clouds hid it. Even if I wasn’t there. But at full moon I was always present. My mind and body knew, and responded accordingly, even if my eyes couldn’t see it. My soul was meant to engage with awe and wonder, I am certain. I am certain of the presence of Our Creator, even when we don’t engage or we don’t see His presence. But I dare you to look around. Maybe even *up*. I bet you’ll see Him ✨

merry christmas! this year in business has been a learning and growing one, as I navigate serving a new city while continuing to serve the former ✨ I am so very grateful. and, i’m EXCITED— there are some new things in the works for 2024! 😉 as for my family, we are doing really well. the south is treating us splendidly. we plan to be here a very long time 🥰 please come visit! ☀️ cheers to you this christmas day, xo amanda kay

I’m taking some time off on this app for a bit— I know I don’t have to announce it, but if somehow you found me here in this december limbo and you’re a future or current client trying to reach me, shoot me an email at akwysephotoanddesign@gmail.com so much love to you, this holiday season. may you have the chance to be present with the people you hold dear ✨ xo amanda kay (📷 : @breanneweston —thanks for making me feel beautiful, friend)

late night editing calls for late night gallery deliveries + instagram posts 🥰 I had a hard time picking a cover photo 🤩 I’m loving this entire gallery and sure hope you do too @southernfuss ✨

I love those big stores just as much as the next gal 😏🎯 so this is a challenge to us all, me included! no one some little ways i’m shopping small lately— @trespalmasacai @goandtellgals @beautycounter (@nrpyle !) @southernfuss (featured in this reel!) @amandakay.fineartshop @shopwellcollective @neuflorawardrobe (I can’t get enough!) @walkinlove @sweetwaterfloral (waiting on my wreath!) and always fb marketplace 😂 where are you shopping small? cheers ✨ xo amanda kay

thank you Lord for this moment 🫶🏼 #wordsmatter cover photo by the amazing @breanneweston ✨

I had to choose from precisely 100 favorites to get to these 12 🫠 Who says cloudy can’t be dreamy too?! (it’s me, i’m the problem, I used to say that 😆). Give me all the clouds for the most playful and fun family photo session! @kprisk24 — I hope these made your beach session dreams come true ✨

I love gallery delivery day! And I LOVE sharing photos taken here in SC 🥹 I have family here this week/weekend, so I’ll be soaking that up ✨❤️ xo amanda kay

most of the photos you see here from me are portrait oriented (vs landscape, not to be confused with portrait mode on your iphone 😜). This fall I have been pushing myself to use my creativity more and part of that is shooting more in landscape of my families. This session is a good representation of my efforts! I did it— 10 whole shareable images in landscape! 😂 most days, it’s the small things 😆 please enjoy this sneak peek of my friends, their adorable pups, and the sunlit beach ✨❤️

My family had the opportunity to be photographed by the one and only @breanneweston and her workshop crew this fall—these are a mix of her and @sarahrostphoto work (each tagged according to its artist) 🥰 I am weeping over these images and what they represent for us. In them I see the journey of love, healing, peace, adventure, and grace. Let me be clear. If you are in my real life in nearly any capacity you know the mess 😆 But, our feet are moving forward. towards Jesus and each other. and that is the magic ✨✨✨ edited to add, hair color by the most fabulous @jenviabeauty !

more sneaks because I love sharing with y’all here ✨ the days I have left for sessions in 2023 are in the single digits (!!). I can’t explain to you my gratitude 🥹 if one of those dates is for you, send me a dm— i’d love to meet you and photograph your family! 💕 xo amanda kay

it’s pretty easy to fall in love with this city 🥹✨ and how about this CUTE and unprompted hand kissing shot of the parents?! 🥰💯 It’s a big week y’all. a lot of you will have your galleries, so very soon! october, you were the best of the best ✨ xo amanda kay

let’s add some punchy color to this feed! y’all chose this carousel > a reel and I have to say, I agree this time, but not all the time, ya feel? 😆 Truly just happy to share either way because I love showing y’all off on here. I loved this session 🥹 Steph + Jeff are celebrating TEN years of marriage this year (a wedding I was a guest at!) and our session started with them buying me a coffee so we knew it was gonna be good 😏 hugely grateful for the sunshine and for this city and the beautiful backdrop it provides 🥹✨

I know it’s Friday and there’s a good chance my people are off doing something fun.. but in the off chance you’re on instagram.. here’s some more from fall in michigan 🥰 Tomorrow I photograph a dear college friend in downtown Charleston and Y’ALL I cannot wait (!!!!!). So—more CHS content coming this way, too, soon! hope you experience rest this weekend, friend ✨ xo amanda kay

Without a doubt, the stress of weather unpredictability was worth the time I got to have with you all in Michigan ✨at the time, I may have questioned it (audibly, to a few trusted ears 😅), but I am correcting myself here. worth it! we made some seriously great memories! and I am so excited to have the joy of editing and delivering all these galleries over the next couple of weeks! cheers to the best fall yet 🍂 xo amanda kay

First, this family y’all 😭 What a joy it was to document their love on the beach this week ☀️ Second— tomorrow I travel to Michigan for a very full work weekend. I am grateful, and, the forecast is, errrrrr, looking sketchy. I wouldn’t travel back and take this risk if I didn’t love my families SO much. (I love you SO much and am SO excited to see y’all). If you’re the praying type, would you ask God for weather favor? I’m hopeful, and I know that it’ll work out as it should. Rain or shine. But, transparently, forecasted rain really can bum this gal out. Taking it one day at a time. My clients are amazing and seriously they are all such troopers when it comes to weather! (and in the grand scheme of things in this world right now, I know this is not worth losing sleep over 😔) already dreaming of being beachside again, xo amanda kay

my goodness, these children 😍✨ mom desired timeless photos that would flow seamlessly in her home. y’all know, I don’t have a studio in my new home— so we created one in the garage! I am sort of obsessed with how it all worked out and I’m hoping to do it again! if you’re looking for timeless portraits of your kids and you don’t mind my garage, let’s do this thang 🤩

Life can look real pretty in these squares, and while it is beautiful and peaceful and interesting and full of hope- this is your reminder that my kids are probably bickering about something useless in the background 😆😅😘

grateful is an understatement. when we moved here I didn’t intend to do this. but it happened on accident in january and I decided i’d do everything in my power to see it every month. i’m 10/10 for the full moon rise this year. can’t stop now 🥹 I’ve been given the reminder lately to appreciate the small things. so i’m going to rattle some off so I don’t forget—@drewwyse making my coffee each morning. riding bikes to and from school. the ability to walk or sit on the beach as often as I make it a priority. the full moon seemingly rising out of the ocean. sunset. sunrise. waves crashing. kids laughing. a cold drink. a warm drink. a new client. faithful clients. groceries. the smell of fresh cut grass 🥹 tell me, what are you grateful for today?

🎶 to live for the hope of it all ✨ This is for someone today 👀 — God is not holding out on you. He sees you. You have the power to take a step forward because He is Mighty in you! and— If you need rest, take it. If you need inspiration, go outside! If you need support, call a friend. If you need to move forward, decide once and step forward. cheers to you ✨ xo amanda kay . . . . . . . #toliveforthehopeofitall #gooutside #hope #inspiration #charlestonphotographer #southcarolinaphotographer #coastalliving

it’s her world, we’re all just living in it 😂🥰🥰 this was an extra special beach session with my niece— after talking about “my beach” for months, she finally got to get her toes in the sand! it has been a wild couple of weeks over here— an impactful women’s conference, visitors, an impromptu model shoot for a new friend (😭), photographing new families, and attempting to keep normal rhythms in between. i’m taking extra rest for a few days ❤️ have a great week! xo amanda kay

my daughter wrote a poem today that knocked me off my feet. she’s nine. i’m not sharing it here (sorry!) because it’s too precious 🥹 my goal with capturing your family is to do that too. if I did, or do, would you write me a review? (see what I did there? 😂) in all seriousness, previous clients: your kind words about my business are so helpful when it comes to prospective clients finding me and deciding to hire me. i’d be so grateful if you shared your experience! comment “me!” and i’ll send you the link to make it super easy. thank you! (if you want to make even more of an impact, tell a real life friend! this means even more and has been how i’ve made it this far! THANK YOU!!) xo amanda kay #supportsmallbusiness #familyphotographer #charlestonfamilyphotographer #charelstonphotographer #lifestylephotographer #lifestylefamilyphotographer

honestly, I can’t get over this crew ✨ nearly all of my sessions this fall (lol that word hits different these days 🫠) in SC are set to be on the beach and it’s easy to see why. dreamland! . . . #maternityphotographer #familyphotographer #charlestonphotographer #lifestylefamilyphotographer #charlestonfamilyphotographer #beachphotosession

Lots of smiles and laughter filled this lovely beach session! friends— I love these new rhythms so much 🥹😎 . . . #southcarolinaphotographer #charlestonphotographer #beachphotosession #familyphotography #lifestylefamilyphotography

so long summer!! but also— as some of you know, my relationship with summer has drastically changed this year. I no longer fear the clouds, the dreaded LDW, or the chill in the air. #iykyk 😆 I’ve seen the sun! and i’ll continue to! apparently in SC fall is an extension of summer, but less tourists. okayyyyy!! ahead of me is the best fall ever, I just know it 😎 i’ll be seeing a lot of you, in SC and in MI, and I am ready 🤗 xo amanda kay

august ✨🫶🏼 the kids are back to school = I have time to make reels again 🤣 I can’t believe I live here and get to photograph families on these beaches. dreamland. so grateful ❤️

taking votes on where in detroit I should see that 9th full moon! 👇🏼

HI! why not reintroduce myself on a Tuesday? 😜 this photo was taken on July’s super moon, and August’s is today 👀 you’ll find me seaside when it rises! this is a rhythm i’ve been keeping since it happened by accident in January (remember that wild day @avery.alawdi ?!) and it is something I look forward to again and again ✨ who wants to join me tonight?! last year around this time, we were juuuust starting to spill the beans to our closest people about our move. it was slow and pain-filled and also the most hopeful I had been in.. years. and here we are. we bought a house 12 minutes from the beach. we’re making this our home, meeting new people, clinging to each other and our network of loved ones who sent us off. we have a guest room, if you want to visit 😉😎 cheers to august 😘 xo amanda kay

okay but maybe I should photograph more weddings?! I’ve been loving reliving this day through photographs as I edit. And I always hope you love reliving your day / moment in time / life stage each time you open your gallery up, too 🥹

Back in the lowcountry and so so happy about it 🙌🏼✨ I have a smidge of summer availability left, if you’re not afraid of a little humidity 😆 Looking forward to meeting you! 🤗🥰 xo amanda kay

I don’t even know where to start 😭 My goal was to capture the emotion, the magic, and the details that made this day so special. It was gosh darn easy to get the joy and the love ❤️ congratulations, avery + giovanni ✨

*highly recommend* grabbing the whole fam, driving down to Isle of Palms, and hiring me to document y’all as your best selves on the beach with the salt air in your face and hair 😍🌴 this is a very tiny and mostly candid snippet of an extended family session (we got all the posed combos, too!). I loved watching the kids have fun and the parents contain and laugh and guide. a serious delight! I love being your photographer! ✨ xo amanda kay

it can be as simple as your backyard (but also it helps when you have beautiful things growing too 🥰) ✨ The best dad I know (@drewwyse) is watching golf (errr napping 😝) the kids are content, and I am sorting through all these images I got to capture these last two weeks. (happy 😊) hope you are able to celebrate one fantastic father out there today, your own, the father of your children, your grandfather, your friend’s dad, your brother who’s a dad, you choose ❤️ xo amanda kay

OKAY! Look at them!!! Still 3 more session to go here in Michigan, but here is a peek! This session was sunny but I’ve barely seen it since ⛅️😅 BUT we are still having SO much fun 🤗 Thank you in advance for the extra grace these next couple of weeks as I finish up our time here and maybe rest a bit! Lots of sneaks coming, soon ❤️ xo amanda kay

More lowcountry goodness 🥰🙌🏼 It’s not too late to schedule your summer session! We have Michigan and SC availability in July and August 🤗 The fall schedule opens this week— email list gets availability first! xo amanda kay

Friends, prepare yourself for the incoming lowcountry photo content! 😆 I am absolutely smitten with the backdrops that DELIVER here year round. green. blue. water. sun! aka, it’s the dreamiest ✨ Next week, I’m opening up my Charleston AND Michigan fall availability, and I am SO excited to catch up with old friends, meet you for the first time, or get to know you even better (like Morgan’s family that you see here! ☺️). Get yourself on my email list! Y’all get first dibs 🫶🏼 (link in profile!) Cheers to June! xo amanda kay

Y’ALL, thank you thank you, you’ve filled up my Michigan availability in June 😭❤️ (okay, I’d take one more 😉 if that’s you reach out asap!) If you didn’t make a June session with me, fear not, Chelsea is ON IT. This spring session you see here was captured by her this week! I mean come on! They obviously had a blast and I’m telling you, she’s GOOD. Please reach out if you have session needs this summer, we’ll get covered! hugs from the lowcountry ✨☀️ xo amanda kay

I get to snuggle this duo soon-ish and I’m so happy about it 🥰

My first spring in the lowcountry has far exceeded my expectations 🌸 blooms, color, always green lush everything everywhere 🥹 don’t pinch me, I need this dream to keep rolling! We have some big plans for this year. Some are still unfolding and some I’ve been waiting to start until the time is juuust right. But the ball is rolling. I’ve rested. I’m ready. If you’re in the Charleston area, and are ready to document your life stage in an authentic, laid back, life-giving way, I’m your gal 🤗 Contact me to learn more about how this process can be fun and true to you and leave you and your loved ones with a gallery full of moments that you get to hold close and admire for years to come. The sun is shining and my camera is ready ☀️ xo amanda kay 📸 @amy_west_photography 🙌🏼

what a crew! we were reunited after 2.5 years and this time I had a lot more hair to photograph! 😉 i’m a big fan, tbh. xo amanda kay

I had a particularly art-fully inspiring weekend, that started off with a portrait session with the most faithful clients and ended with a solo-hotel-staycation in downtown Charleston. Art galleries, architecture, and sunshine, oh my ✨ Here is just a slice from my wandering! If you’re looking to stay downtown, I have the scoop on @hotelemeline — just ask! (read: room service dinner from bed while in a robe is a must 🤩) #downtowncharleston #charlestondaily #charlestonphotographer #fineartphotography #hotelemeline #staycation

okay, but spring in Charleston 🥹✨🌸 I met Amy while volunteering for school lunch duty 😜 we’re both photographers so we immediately had sooo much to talk about! last week, she graciously took me around downtown, generously sharing with me her favorite places 🥹together we searched for inspiration, hunted down blooms, and discovered some new (very) aesthetically delightful spaces while swapping some photographs (mine coming later!)! I didn’t expect to connect with another photog so early in this transition, and i’m so grateful I did ☺️✨give Amy a follow! 👉🏼 @amy_west_photography cheers to spring! xo amanda kay

I have so many women to celebrate and for that I am so grateful 🥲 Thank God for women! so much love to you today from the women at a.k.wyse p+d ✨❤️

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