KATE MOTHERWELL IS A SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN
FAMILY PHOTO-JOURNALIST PHOTOGRAPHER

Hi, I’m Kate!

MAMA OF TWO • ADVENTUROUS LEO • NATURE LOVER

As a mother to a two and three year-old, I know firsthand the joys and challenges of being an all-encompassing mama. I share that familiar worry so many of us carry—that these precious days will slip through our fingers, that we’ll forget the little moments that make up the heart of our story.

I’ve been photographing families and their littles for over nine years, but it wasn’t until I became a mother myself that I truly understood the depth and beauty of motherhood. Now, I see the magic in the everyday—the giggles, the snuggles, the soft smiles—and I’m passionate about capturing those fleeting moments for other families, just like mine.


MY PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE

Photography is an art, and like any art form, every photographer brings their own unique style shaped by creativity, vision, and passion. While many assume editing defines a photographer’s style, I believe it’s much more than that. The time of day, location, use of natural light, and camera settings all play a crucial role in shaping my artistic vision. Editing is simply the finishing touch that enhances the image captured in-camera.

Over the past nine years, I’ve cultivated a style that feels truly authentic to me. I’m drawn to a blend of classic and modern elements — creating images that feel timeless yet fresh and current. My goal is for my photos to remain just as meaningful years from now as they are in the moment they’re taken. I strive to evoke calmness and peacefulness in my images, keeping the focus on my clients and their emotions. To achieve this, I embrace simplicity in styling, lighting, and wardrobe — letting genuine moments and feelings shine through.

 
 
 

M Y L O V E S . M Y H E A R T . M Y I N S P I R A T I O N .

 
 
 

I'm a mama to a smart, free-spirited, and creative little girl, Eloise (El). My sweet and adventurous baby boy, Emerson (Em), is obsessed with all things mama. Fun fact, they share the same birthday one year apart! These babies are my world and my motivation in all that I do.

 
 
Ellie Emmy.jpg
 
 

My Studio

Welcome to my Troy-based home studio—where natural light meets timeless style.

My cozy space is filled with soft, beautiful natural light that brings out the very best in your little one’s portraits. I also incorporate professional studio lighting to ensure the highest-quality images—every time.

For newborn and baby sessions, I provide a thoughtfully curated selection of swaddles, wraps, hats, and hairbands, along with fun, creative setups for sitters and unforgettable first-year cake smashes. Every detail is designed to help you capture those fleeting moments in a way you’ll treasure forever.

STUDIO AMENITIES

Tea, coffee and bottled water

Changing station with diapers and wipes

Heater and “Baby Shusher” to keep baby relaxed and warm

Comfortable seating and privacy to nurse and snuggle with baby between poses

Restroom & changing area