About

Hello! I am Katya!

I am a portrait, family and editorial photographer based in Menlo Park, California. It is a true joy to take photos and I love helping my clients develop and carry out a vision for their photo session.

The photos I create are a blend of timeless, classic portraits with the in-between “lifestyle” moments—those unscripted, genuine connections where emotions shine the brightest.

I know that stepping in front of the camera can feel awkward, but my goal is to make the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. From the moment we start working together, I’ll guide you through the process, helping you feel at ease so your confidence and personality shine through.

I love collaborating with my clients to bring their vision to life—whether you have a clear idea of what you want or just a feeling you’re trying to capture, I’ll help refine and shape it into a photoshoot that truly reflects you. Through thoughtful direction, attention to detail, and a focus on creating a relaxed environment, I ensure that your photos not only look great but also feel authentic.

Let’s create something meaningful together—photos that not only showcase you at your best but also tell your unique story.

A little about me… My love for photography began when I got my first camera at 11 years old. I had just moved from Russia (then the Soviet Union) to the United States, and everything around me felt new and fascinating. I spent hours wandering with my camera, capturing anything that caught my eye.

That early passion led me to art and photography classes, a career in design, and a slight detour to earn an MBA. But it was after my husband and I met and our 3 kids were born that I truly fell in love with portrait and lifestyle photography. There’s something special about capturing real, meaningful moments—whether it’s a quiet glance, a burst of laughter, or just a still moment.

When I’m not behind the camera, you can find me spending time with family and friends. I also love getting in a workout, always with my favorite music playing to keep me motivated.