Hey there!
I’m Ali (pronoun: she), a photographer, filmmaker, and hmmm, let’s say environmental groupie. For the past few years, I’ve followed “the breadcrumbs of my curiosity” and pushed away the idea of figuring it all out. Along the way I’ve found my work meets somewhere between nature, science, and community. I can be quiet at times, but I’m goofy, passionate, dedicated, and pretty obsessed with my camera.
Staying curious has allowed me to remain a “forever student”, eager to dive into stories of our world. I believe in the power of community, nature, and connection – and those ideas end up being at the root of the stories I devour most often.
Contact me if you need photography, video, or environmental education – even better if you need a mix of the three. That’s my sweet spot!
See more of my work and get to know me over on my blog.
Pointing out the glacier for everyone to see :)
So, what path of breadcrumbs did I follow?
After graduating film school for production and post production, I was able to intern with an international company, work at local post houses, and help non-profits and socially conscious businesses as they grew. The latter won the soft spot in my heart and ultimately encouraged me to pursue a Bachelor’s in Non-profit Leadership & Management from Arizona State University. During my studies, I discovered a bit of missing link that really filled a lot of my super secret aspirations: the outdoors. I worked at both a youth camp and an environmental education camp, falling in love with sharing the outdoors with students. A few years in, I knew I wanted more adventure, but felt a little scared to admit it.
See, I grew up camping and tagging along on my dad’s climbing trips, but felt rather out of place. As a currently recovering perfectionist, I expected to be good at things right away. Climbing really put me out of my comfort zone, so I assumed I wasn’t made for that world. For a while I lived in this space of disconnect, wanting to be a part of something and also feeling not good enough for it. I got to the point of being over the “not good enough” mindset and ended up taking a conservation media job in Alaska to prove to myself just exactly what I was capable of doing! My path has shaped me to be very passionate about environmental education, sharing scientific research, and creating a kinder, more inclusive world.
What’s it like to work with me?
To focus on the idea of connection, I specialize in smaller, more intimate shoots. Intimate sessions, whether photography or video or education development, allow me to get to know you better, put more focus on your values, and share your story authentically.
I love talking over ideas and dreams in my personal life – if my friends or family tell me about a new pursuit they’re chasing I’m all in, cheering them on, outlining plans, and sending along a link I think will be helpful for their next step ;) And it’s a value that transfers over to my professional life pretty seamlessly. We’ll start with your ideas, dreams, and values, then build from there.
Let’s start brainstorming and figure out how I can help you with your ideas!
“The camera is a good excuse to see the world” - Graciela Iturbide
My camera has helped shape my perspective, as well as helped share my perspective. I see life through my own unique lens, with compassion, thoughtfulness, and delight. My camera is a good excuse to keep looking at the world this way. To view myself and those around me with an open and soft heart.
My inspiration comes from the world around me
When I'm capturing a moment I look for a connection, whether it's between two people or between a person and nature, I enjoy seeing someone experiencing emotion and discovery.
Kindness speaks to me! I love watching people work for the greater good and impacting the lives of others. So collaborating with big hearts that have big ideas is a dream come true.
Growing up in Arizona with two parents who took me camping and hiking cultivated my appreciation for nature. The wonder my surroundings bring to me finds a way into my work!