meet the team ⏬︎
LEARN ABOUT THE FOLKS BEHIND THE LENS ;)
Hey, I’m James!
I’m all about the simple joys in life—great people, good vibes, and making art out of memories. You know, the good stuff. ❤︎
Connection is everything to me. I love finding that shared spark with people, especially in unexpected ways. I feel incredibly lucky to turn those connections into timeless images that feel cinematic, rich, and full of love—almost like they were pulled out of your favorite indie rom-com. My background as a lifelong musician, film lover, and tech-enthusiast inspires my artistic style and editing approach, blending emotion, passion, and rich, natural tones into every frame.
I wear a few hats: I’m a wedding & elopement specialist while engaging in various other avenues of photography, such as portraits, real estate, and landscape. I'm also blessed with a wonderful fiancé, Jamie Nicole and our derpy rescue chihuahua named Robyn...and you might even catch me moonlighting as a DJ at my side project tames! Big fan of the arts (if you couldn't already tell lol), road trips, hikes, music festivals (aka heaven on earth), and low-key obsessed with all things cute, cozy, and wholesome. Jamie teaches meditation and sound healing, which she offers to couples and their guests at weddings as well (shameless plug).
Photography found me during a tough chapter—undiagnosed IBD and ADHD left me sidelined from college and 9-5 work in my early 20s, and I turned to landscape and nature photography as a form of therapy. That creative spark lit up a new life path, and with encouragement from my friends and years of mentorship from Blake Andrews of SLOtography, I built a full-time career doing what I love most.
Fast forward a decade: I’ve photographed 175+ weddings, been published in The New York Times, Rock & Roll Bride and more, and continue to work alongside the talented SLOtography crew while running my personal brand since 2017 (you are here).
I’m also a proud ally and LGBTQ+ Inclusive Certified Photographer through EquallyWed. My mission is to create safe, affirming spaces for all identities, shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. Therapy, inner work, and lifelong learning are part of how I show up—not just as a photographer, but as a human.
If you’re looking for someone who leads with heart, embraces your realness, and knows how to capture the magic in between moments—hit me up! I'd love to meet you. ♥︎
Hi, I’m Makayla! :)
I'm a photographer with a passion for capturing life’s most meaningful moments.
My journey with photography began back in high school, and it didn’t take long before I completely fell in love with the art. Since then, I've graduated with a degree in photography from Cal Poly and have made it my mission to capture life’s milestones, quiet joys, and unforgettable memories.
When I’m not behind the lens, you’ll probably find me bowling with friends, collecting rocks, or
taking peaceful walks along the beach. These hobbies keep me grounded and inspired, reminding me to appreciate the beauty in everyday life—something I always aim to reflect in my work.
Photography, for me, is about connection. Whether it’s a wedding day, a family gathering, or a simple, honest portrait, I’m honored to help people hold on to the moments that matter most.
Let’s capture something beautiful! ♥︎
CHECK OUT MY PORTFOLIO SITE HERE!
Let's get this party started.
Please provide as many details as you can, and I'll get back to you in 1-2 business days. Thank you!
this year taught me how to stay open without losing myself.
to take care of my energy.
to make honest and intentional artwork.
2025 asked for presence, clarity, and trust—in myself and in the process. the work became less about pushing and more about showing up grounded and open to the moment.
i’m deeply grateful for the clients, planners, and fellow creatives who trusted me with meaningful moments and met me with such care. i`m moving forward with clearer boundaries, steadier footing, and a quiet optimism for what’s ahead.
to my 2026 couples—welcome. i’m so excited for the stories still to come. 🤍
and yes, i’m still accepting a limited number of new clients this year.
here’s to warmth, connection, and continuing to create images that feel like home. 🤍
So honored to capture the whimsical, love-filled wedding of Megan and Ally at Camp Ocean Pines! 💕 The perfect blend of joy, adventure, and romance surrounded by nature`s beauty. #LGBTQWedding #WeddingPhotography #AdventureWedding #LoveIsLove.
Check out the full story on my blog (link in bio).
Much love!
studio ghibli vibes 🎼
dtla glow 🌃
soft florals 🌺
stunning couple 💛
late-night joints 💨
wood-fired pizza 🍕
and yes… donuts 🍩
such a dreamy night.
congrats again to l+j 💛
the sweetest day celebrating lauren & harley at @thegardensatpeacockfarms — fun fact: harley is my brother’s childhood friend & so he got to be his best man...’twas a lovely reunion! 🤗
cheers to the happy couple! 💛
#sneakpeeks
also shout out to @makayla_grogan_photographer for the support 📸
hi! 👋🏻
i’m back from a lil social media detox to share these lovely sneaks from rena & rob’s special day. 🤩
i feel so lucky to collaborate with truly inspiring & genuinely kind-hearted couples like these two sweeties! 🥰
it kinda blows my mind that i’ve now documented something like 180 weddings, and still my heart races with adrenaline & joy every time i get to do this for folks. 🔥
so—
from the bottom of my heart
thank you.
🥹🙏🏻
happy holidays y’all. ❤️
love,
james
@madonnainn1958 elopement vibes with these cool cats 🔥😎
congrats cat & vaughn ❤️❤️❤️
a lovely lil stroll thru @downtownslo with these two sweethearts on their wedding day 🥰✨
two brides are better than one!! 💞
i had the absolute best time celebrating olivia & felicity last weekend. 🥰
weather was effin perfect & vibes were on point from the pre-ceremony hustle bustle all the way to their iconic tunnel exit at the end of the night. 🪩👯♀️
everyone was just so incredibly present and wholly supportive of the love shared between these two radiant soulmates. ✨
these sneak peeks barely scratch the surface of all the magic. 😍
congrats again olivia & felicity!!! ❤️❤️❤️
venue: @almond_springs
coordination: @almond_springs
photo: @jameslesterphoto + @makayla_grogan_photographer
muah: @thequeensbees
dj/lighting: @dj.recspin
bartending: Justin Johnson Mobile Bartending
photobooth: @picturethisslo
catering: @diezels__bbq_llc
draping: @draping_bykim
rentals: @slopartyrentals
wind swept & overflowing with love 🌬️
feeling so grateful to share so many special adventures & memories with such lovely humans 💟
my health hasn`t been the best lately but my work always gives me life ☺️
have a great week everyone ✨
Captured a beautiful and fun-filled elopement of Tina & Kendrick at Santa Barbara Courthouse. Despite overcast at Leadbetter Beach, we were untamed and free to roam, creating magical moments with each click!📷 #SantaBarbaraWedding #ElopementLove #BeachWeddingPhotography
If you or anyone you know is looking for a wedding photographer specializing in soulful, cinematic wedding photos that don`t things *too* seriously, I`d love to connect. 😊
Shoot me a DM or inquire directly through my website (link in bio).
Much love! 🥰
