Love Is Sweet

15 Years & Thousands of Shutter Clicks

Let’s be real: most people feel a little weird the second a professional camera points at them. You start wondering what to do with your hands, if your smile looks forced, or if you’re "posing right." That is exactly why the person behind the camera matters more than the gear they’re holding.

I started Love Is Sweet Photography over 15 years ago. In that time, I have captured everything from high-stakes wedding "I dos" to the quiet, nervous energy of a surprise proposal. 1.5 decades of experience means I'm not just guessing—I know how to find the light, the angle, and the moment before it even happens. I don't just show up and start shooting; I make the session feel like you’re just hanging out with a friend who happens to have a really nice camera. Whether you are a high school senior trying to look cool for the yearbook or a couple celebrating a gender reveal, I have a way of making the "camera jitters" disappear.

While weddings are the heart of what we do, life happens in between the big "I do" moments. I have built a portfolio that covers the entire timeline of a family’s journey:

Proposals: Capturing that "YES" without ruining the surprise.

Maternity & Gender Reveals: Celebrating the next chapter with style and warmth.

High School Seniors: Giving the Class of 2026 (and beyond) photos they actually want to post.

Family Sessions: Real smiles, no stiff poses.

Why Experience Matters

When you hire someone with 15 years in the game, you aren't just paying for photos. You’re paying for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your photographer won't panic if the lighting changes or the schedule runs late. If you want a gallery that feels authentic, energetic, and completely "you," you’re in the right place.

Photo Session Location Spots

I’ve spent the last 15 years scouting every corner of the Central Valley to find backdrops that actually look as good as they feel. While a lot of photographers stick to the same three trees, I like to mix it up. Whether you want that classic "Visalia aesthetic" or something a little more lowkey and editorial, here is my personal list of where we should head for your next session.

The Fan-Favorites (The "Common" Spots)

Mooney Grove Park: It’s a classic for a reason. I love the sprawling greenery and those historic wooden bridges for family sessions or maternity shoots. The valley oaks here are unmatched.

Plaza Park: This is a fantastic all-arounder for families and lifestyle shoots. Between the scenic pond, the massive playground, and the open green spaces, there are plenty of angles to work with. Plus, if you’re doing a "lifestyle" or sporty session, the disc golf course and walking trails add a great dynamic texture.

Downtown Visalia: If you want that urban, "Main Street" charm, this is my go-to. The historic architecture gives senior portraits a polished, timeless vibe.

Kaweah Oaks Preserve: This is where I go for that raw, rustic look. It’s especially stunning in the spring when it’s lush or in late summer when the tall grass turns golden.

The Hidden Gems (The "Not-So-Common" Spots)

West Main Park: People usually sleep on this spot, but I love the "mountain path" feel along the canal. The old bridge and the contrast of the government buildings make for some really interesting compositions.

The Downtown Alleys: While everyone else stays on the sidewalk, I’ll take you into the brick alleys. They offer a gritty, editorial texture that makes senior photos or "cool-casual" couple shoots really pop.

The Blossom Trail (Seasonal): For a few weeks in late winter, the orchards around us turn into a pink and white wonderland. I love capturing proposals here—it feels like a literal movie set.

Rocky Hill (Exeter): Just a short drive away, the backside of Rocky Hill offers sweeping views of the valley. If we time it for sunset, we get that "top of the world" energy without the long drive to the mountains.

My Pro Tip: The Golden Hour

Regardless of where we go, I always aim for the "Golden Hour"—that sweet spot about an hour before sunset. That is when the Visalia light is at its softest, making everyone look like they have a built-in filter. Which vibe are you feeling for your shoot? I can help you narrow it down based on what you’re planning to wear!