READING TIME: 3 min 37 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/03/2024
UPDATED: 12/03/2024
In the world of wedding photography, every artist has a unique story—a journey that shapes their craft and defines their vision. For Kayla Sprint, an Intimate Wedding & Elopement Photographer based in the Pacific Northwest, photography is more than a profession; it’s a deeply personal expression of love and connection. From her beginnings as a landscape photographer to becoming a sought-after storyteller for couples worldwide, Kayla’s path is as inspiring as the images she creates.
“My passion for photography first blossomed through landscape work during my college years,” Kayla shares. Growing up in Portland, Oregon, she was naturally drawn to the stunning beauty of her surroundings. Her early work captured the vastness of nature, a skill that would later influence her ability to frame intimate moments in expansive spaces.
After college, Kayla honed her craft with local publications, taking on editorial features and fine-tuning her technical skills. However, her true calling came unexpectedly. “In 2017, I stumbled into wedding photography by chance while shooting with a friend—and immediately fell in love with it,” she recalls. That serendipitous moment changed the trajectory of her career, igniting a passion that has since taken her across the globe to capture love stories in breathtaking destinations.
When asked to describe her style, Kayla’s response is simple yet profound: “I blend an effortless, timeless style with a focus on capturing love stories through both digital and film photography.” Her images are rich with emotion, a blend of nostalgic hues and authentic moments that feel alive with meaning.
“For the sentimental and nostalgic at heart, I focus on preserving true colors and highlighting intimate, meaningful moments,” Kayla explains. Her work is a celebration of authenticity—images that evoke not just memories, but the emotions tied to them.
Kayla’s toolkit is as versatile as her artistry. On a wedding day, she relies on her trusted Canon 5D Mark IV cameras paired with a Canon 35mm, 50mm, and 24-70mm lenses for precision and adaptability. For film photography, she turns to her Canon AE-1 Program and Contax T2, blending the clarity of digital with the timeless charm of analog.
This dual approach allows her to create galleries that are both modern and timeless. “My goal is to authentically capture the essence of each scene, ensuring the final galleries reflect not only how the moment felt, but also the curated beauty of how it looked,” she says.
For Kayla, photography is about more than just capturing moments—it’s about building genuine relationships. “It has to be the couples and the genuine, deep connections I’ve built with each of them. It truly means the most to me,” she says with heartfelt sincerity.
This connection begins long before the wedding day. Kayla takes time to get to know each couple, understanding their love story and vision. “I want to be a trusted friend they can rely on,” she says. This bond fosters a sense of comfort and trust, allowing her to capture her clients in their truest form.
Kayla’s dedication to her craft extends to her flexibility in creating custom packages. “Absolutely!” she says when asked if she offers personalized options. Whether it’s an intimate elopement in the Pacific Northwest or a grand celebration abroad, she’s committed to meeting her clients’ unique needs.
Her approach is rooted in collaboration. “It’s about creating a bond where they feel comfortable confiding in me, and together, we work to bring their vision to life,” she explains. This partnership ensures that every photo reflects the couple’s personality and love story.
Travel has become a defining aspect of Kayla’s career, and she has a special love for destination weddings. “Some of my most unforgettable shoots have taken me to stunning locations like the rugged beauty of Iceland, the romantic shores of Lake Como, the vibrant landscapes of Tulum, and the timeless charm of London,” she says.
Each location brings its magic, allowing Kayla to weave the natural beauty of the setting into her storytelling. Her ability to seamlessly merge place and emotion makes her work stand out in the competitive world of destination wedding photography.
Kayla understands that for many couples, being in front of the camera can feel daunting. That’s why she goes above and beyond to ensure they feel at ease. “Before our session or wedding day, I’ll send over a personalized questionnaire to help me get to know you better—everything from your love languages to a curated playlist that reflects your vibe,” she shares.
Additionally, Kayla provides a session guide packed with tips, a style guide, and even a Pinterest inspiration board to spark creativity and excitement. “My goal is to make sure you feel as comfortable and confident as possible, especially with me!” she emphasizes.
After eight years behind the lens, Kayla Sprint has become a masterful storyteller, creating images that are as timeless as the love they represent. Her passion for connection, her eye for beauty, and her dedication to authenticity have made her a trusted name for couples around the world.
For Kayla, photography is more than a job—it’s a calling. “Since then, I’ve had the privilege of traveling the world, capturing the most meaningful moments of couples’ lives—and I couldn’t imagine a more fulfilling path,” she says with gratitude.
