DALLAS PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

Photographs that feel authentic, timeless, and intentional...

Timeless images that
feel like home.

Film-forward family, maternity, and newborn photography in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.

MY STORY

MEET THE GIRL BEHIND THE LENS

My journey into photography took an unexpected path, starting in the fast-paced world of sports photography, it wasn’t until we faced the loss of a loved one that I truly understood the immense value of preserving life’s most meaningful moments.

Shortly after my daughter was born, we experienced the sudden and heartbreaking loss of my mother-in-law. At the time, I was already passionate about family photography, but this loss showed me just how powerful it truly is. Her memory lives on through the photographs we have, images that allow my daughter to know and feel connected to the grandmother she barely had time to meet. That’s the power of what we do, and it’s a responsibility I carry with deep care and purpose as a Dallas portrait photographer.

dallas PORTRAIT experience

Your story deserves more than a file in the cloud.

I believe in photography that feels meaningful, intentional, and real. Images you’ll reach for long after the moment has passed. I specialize in family, maternity, and newborn portraiture shot on film and crafted into custom artwork with an elevated experience that includes:

+ CLIENT WARDROBE
+ HAIR & MAKEUP
+ TANGIBLE ARTwork

For families who value meaning over trends...

My heart is for families who value real, honest, human connection. The kind of connection that comes from focusing on each other, not the camera.

Emotion-rich photography rooted in real connection

Film-forward sessions that slow time and feel timeless

Heirloom artwork designed to live beautifully in your home

Planned around real life...

Because I understand nap time is sacred. Sessions are planned with care around what works best for your family. I offer guidance on locations based on lighting, routines, bedtime schedules, and the natural flow of your day. Whether that looks like a cozy in-home session, kids running through the sprinkler in the backyard, wandering through an open field, or exploring rose gardens, I am all in.

My goal is to bring your vision to life while eliminating as much stress as possible. That means we do not sacrifice nap times, bedtimes, or soccer practice. I cater to your family so you can truly enjoy this time together.

Kayla made our newborn session a breeze! She was so patient and kind, especially with a tired new mom. Her photography skills are top-notch, and her wardrobe selection was a game-changer. We're so grateful for the beautiful memories she captured for our family. We can't wait to work with her again!

- THE YURK FAMILY

Kayla is amazing. She was super easy to work with, and very helpful. She answers all questions and is there to help with advice and opinions. Kayla was very fast getting my edited gallery back for me to view My photos have all turned out so beautiful and everyone loves them! So grateful to have these wonderful memories captured forever."

- MORROW FAMILY

Because this season matters

You are not just hiring someone to take photos. You are choosing someone who understands how meaningful this part of life is.

You should book Kayla Mari Photography if you want images that feel like memories, not poses. I create space for families to slow down, connect, and be fully present with one another. Sessions are thoughtfully planned around real life, personalities, and the natural rhythm of each family.

Through a refined use of film and digital photography, I create images that are timeless, honest, and deeply emotive. I do not chase trends. I focus on creating photographs that will still feel meaningful decades from now. Beyond the session, I help families turn their images into artwork that becomes part of their everyday story.

Most of all, families choose me because I care deeply. About the experience, the story being told, and the legacy being created. These moments pass quickly, and they deserve to be remembered beautifully.

LEARN MORE

Five tips for happy kids during photos

Here are my five go-to tips for ensuring natural smiles and laughter during your next family session.

Honest Imagery, Thoughtfully Created.

If this season feels meaningful to you and you are drawn to imagery that feels honest, timeless, and deeply personal, I would love to hear from you. I take on a limited number of families each month to ensure every experience is thoughtfully cared for. Begin by sharing a little about your family and the season you hope to preserve, and I will be in touch with next steps and availability.

let's work together