Hello and Welcome!

Meet Anna Joy: Your Wedding & Family Photographer in Whatcom County, Washington

Hello! I’m Anna, the photographer behind Anna Joy Photography, located in beautiful Whatcom County, Washington. I’m so glad you’re here, and I’d love to share a little bit about myself, my approach to photography, and what you can expect when you book a session with me.

I’m a wife, a mom to four amazing kiddos, and I’ve been capturing memories professionally for nearly 10 years. It’s been an incredible journey, and I can honestly say there’s nothing I love more than helping people celebrate life’s special moments through my lens. Whether it’s the magic of a wedding day or the joy of a family simply being together, my goal is always to create photos that feel real, beautiful, and uniquely you.

Why Finding the Right Photographer Matters

I know how hard it can be to find a photographer you feel truly comfortable with. Let’s be honest: Being in front of the camera can be intimidating! Many people feel awkward or self-conscious, especially if they’ve never had a professional photoshoot before. You may be wondering, “Will I look natural? What if I don’t know what to do with my hands? Will the photos look like me?” These are common concerns, and I want you to know that you’re not alone.

Finding a photographer you can truly be yourself with is such an important part of the process, and I’m here to help make that easier for you. I get that trust is key. It’s not just about taking beautiful photos; it’s about feeling comfortable, relaxed, and like yourself in front of the camera. I want to be that person you can lean on to guide you through the session and help you enjoy the moment.

But, I also know that I’m not the right fit for everyone—and that’s totally okay! Photography is a deeply personal experience, and the last thing I want is for anyone to feel pressured into a style or approach that doesn’t resonate with them. If you’re someone who prefers a more traditional, posed style of photography, there are plenty of amazing photographers out there who specialize in that. But if you’re looking for something that feels relaxed, natural, and true to you, then I’d love to work with you!

My Approach to Photography: Natural, Lifestyle, and Candid

One thing you’ll notice about my work is that I love capturing natural, candid moments that show the real emotion behind a wedding day or family session. I believe that the best photographs are the ones where people are being themselves—laughing, holding hands, dancing, or just enjoying each other’s company. It’s those moments that truly tell your story and make the images feel personal and meaningful.

I take a lifestyle approach to photography, which means I’m not here to make you “pose” in ways that feel stiff or unnatural. Instead, I’ll give you gentle direction to guide you through the session, but I also want you to feel free to move, interact, and let the moments unfold naturally. Whether it’s a couple sharing a quiet moment on their wedding day or a family laughing together during a photo session, I want to capture those real connections.

Of course, if you’re unsure about how to pose or you’re feeling nervous, I’m here to help. I’ll walk you through it, give you encouragement, and make sure you feel at ease. You’ll never have to worry about awkward poses or “what do I do next” moments—I'm here to guide you and make the process as smooth as possible. My goal is for you to feel like yourself, relaxed and happy, as I capture photos that truly represent who you are.

You Don’t Have to Be a Model

I often hear people say, “I’m not good in front of the camera” or “I’m not a model,” and I want to tell you right now: You don’t have to be a model to work with me. I’m not looking for perfection; I’m looking for real people who want to create meaningful memories.

Whether you're planning your wedding, capturing a milestone in your family’s life, or celebrating another special occasion, I’m here to make sure you feel confident, comfortable, and—most importantly—like yourself. I know that being in front of the camera can feel a bit intimidating, but that’s where I come in. I’ll be with you every step of the way, from the moment you book your session to the moment you get your final photos.

You might feel a little nervous at first, but I promise, the goal is to have fun! We’ll laugh, we’ll chat, and we’ll make sure your session is something you enjoy. I’ll guide you through posing in a way that feels natural, and I’ll make sure to capture those moments of genuine emotion that you’ll treasure forever.

I’m Here to Tell Your Story

Every family, every couple, and every individual has a unique story to tell, and I’m honored to be the one to help tell it through my photos. Whether it’s a wedding day filled with love and laughter, a family celebrating a special milestone, or a quiet moment shared between two people, my goal is to create images that speak to the heart.

If you choose to work with me, I want you to know that this will be a collaborative experience. I’m not just here to take pictures; I’m here to help you create something that feels true to who you are. Your story matters to me, and I want to make sure your photos reflect that in the most authentic way possible.

If you're ready to start planning your session or if you have any questions about how I work, feel free to reach out. I’d love to chat with you and see if we’d be a good fit. I can’t wait to help you create beautiful, timeless memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Anna Joy