Humans are beautiful, messy creatures and we are all worthy of being documented.
My path as a Denver documentary photographer stems from a desire to give people the ability to be seen in an authentic and connected way. We have so many stories to share and I believe that photography is an incredible way to do just that.
I believe in integrity & respect and believe it is a core element in what I do. I proudly serve and welcome all identities, cultures & abilities & bodies. As a person that identifies as queer myself I wholeheartedly believe in the importance of LGBTQ+ stories & pride myself in providing a safe & affirming space for all.
Families
We have so many stories to share about our families. Documentary family sessions reflect how we connect. Whether you’re documenting the transition into parenthood with a maternity or newborn session or documenting your family in the throws of life I’m here to witness you!
Weddings & Elopements
Imagery for those who want to be immersed in their big day and their big love. I specialize in documenting authentic moments through thoughtful composition & observation. I love small celebrations & backyard weddings but thrive in the controlled chaos of larger wedding days too!
End of Life & Medical
Documenting final stages of life & medical journeys with dignity, empathy & connection. A few years ago I was asked to document a young girl going through leukemia, a father in his final days, a mother going through a terrible disease. I’ve learned how deeply important these stories are to tell.
Emotive & Conceptual Portraits
My portrait work explores the space between the grit and vulnerability of life. I enjoy creating conceptual stories based around a thought or emotion. Visual poetry that doesn’t focus on perfection but rather emotion. I’ve done sessions around empowerment, grief, loss, life transitions, spirituality & self exploration. Together we’ll build symbolism & story behind your portrait session.
“Kyla was the absolutely ice cream base, whip cream, AND cherry on top of our wedding day. From the moment she arrived to the moment she left, we had no doubt that our love wasn’t perfectly captured. Kyla’s calm and reassuring nature had everyone super comfortable within a matter of minutes. She blended in perfectly with our day and oftentimes we forgot she was even there! However, in the moments that we deemed memorable, she was always right there, preserving it. With our blended families, we had perfect confidence that Kyla would be able to balance skin tones due to her extremely diverse portfolio. And that was made apparent in the images. Everyone looks amazing. But we didn’t expect anything less. We know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Kyla will be in our family for the remainder of our lives. Every new milestone we reach, we will book her. If we could, we would recommend Kyla 10000000 times over if we could. You will not regret having her as a part of your wedding day and essentially the rest of your life’s milestones.”
with my freckles and messy hair, bruised knee and chapped lips – this morning I am splendidly imperfect and alive // Sabrina Ward Harrison
A few of my favorite things
Gardening gardening GARDENING! Such a love affair with gardening. What quiet comfort it is to be able to walk outside and enjoy a morning coffee and watch the bees wake up and listen to the birds give us all their chatter. Recently I’ve been obsessed with the mantis ladies that frequent my dahlias.
Dogs are the best. Forever a Buffy gal. Andrea Gibson poetry. Ologies the podcast. Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier. Becky Chambers books. Music on shuffle in a dark room on a stormy day. Writing. Painting. Cyanotypes.
Photography is how I see the world. Photography is how I feel connection. Photography is how I find myself.
I find myself drawn to the grit of life, the spaces that exist between the light and the dark that feel almost otherworldly. I delight in connection, collaboration & creative communion.
My mama wasn’t in a lot of our photos because she was the one taking the photos. Sometimes I wish I could go back and photograph our little family because I want so badly to see her in all of those moments. Every image is a story about who we are in that moment. Photography is the best way I know how to share myself with others and documentary photography speaks to me most. I think the way we connect naturally with each other is the most beautiful part of humanity.
“Kyla’s exceptional talent and unwavering dedication played a pivotal role in capturing the most precious moments of our special day along with our engagement photos, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the results.
From the moment we met Kyla, her passion for photography and commitment to her craft were abundantly clear. She took the time to understand our vision, preferences, and the unique essence of our relationship. Her ability to connect with us on a personal level made the entire experience comfortable and enjoyable. She even came prepared with umbrellas for some unexpected rain during our engagement photos which turned out to be some of our favorites from the shoot!
Kyla’s professionalism and attention to detail were truly impressive. She meticulously planned each shot, scouted the perfect locations, and considered every angle to ensure that our wedding photographs would be nothing short of extraordinary. Her expertise in composition, lighting, and timing resulted in a collection of images that are simply breathtaking.
On our wedding day, Kyla’s calm and reassuring presence was a source of comfort. She effortlessly managed the entire photography process, seamlessly blending into the background during candid moments while also skillfully directing us and our wedding party for organic shots. Her ability to capture genuine emotions and candid moments was remarkable, and we are forever grateful for the candid shots that reflect the true essence of our day.
The final photographs delivered by Kyla surpassed all our expectations. Each image tells a story, evoking the same emotions and joy we felt on our wedding day. Kyla has a remarkable talent for capturing not only the moments but also the emotions and atmosphere of the day, making each photograph a treasure to cherish for a lifetime.
Kyla’s dedication to her craft extends beyond the wedding day itself. Her post-production work was meticulous, resulting in photographs that are not just pictures but true works of art. The quality and attention to detail were evident in every image, from the vibrant colors to the subtle nuances of each moment.
Kyla is not just a photographer; she is a true artist with an extraordinary ability to freeze moments in time. We are endlessly thankful for her talent, professionalism, warm heart and the stunning visual story she created for us on our wedding day. If you are seeking a photographer who will capture the heart and soul of your special day, Kyla is the absolute best choice.”
Storytelling for those who crave connection
CONTACT ME
Denver Documentary Photographer
Documentary photography sessions have the ability to be core memories
As a Denver documentary photographer I specialize in photographing clients in their homes, their creative spaces, in places that are special to them and tell their history. I want your images to spark a memory or a feeling. Because of that my work is often unscripted, unposed & full of connection, joy and vulnerability. You don’t need to become something you’re not to be worthy of being documented. In fact you are meant to be as exceptionally you as possible. What I do is collaborative creation with the people I am photographing.
