Artist, empath, storyteller
Meet Christina, Founder of Nina Lily Photography
I go by Christina, but Nina is my family nickname.
I’m the storyteller behind the camera, the editor behind the scenes, and the advocate for our clients and collective at Nina Lily Photography.
I am inherently an observer of stories unfolding. In getting to know you, your narrative, the legacy you want to create – I listen. To what’s important to you, what you say or don’t say. Through this focusing, I can begin to see what is at the heart of who you are, what you value most, what the documentation of your wedding day would mean – now and many years from now.
These are the images that will ultimately provide reflection on what brought you to this moment and the people and experiences that make up your larger story.
I feel a responsibility to bring respect and attunement to your experience. Through the trust and connection we build throughout our process, authentic imagery results. I encourage my clients to slow down and appreciate each other and the moment. I hold space for you and encourage you to feel whatever is coming up. Your presence with each other allows me to capture emotion while focusing on light and composition.
Life as art, art as life.
My thoughtful process and creative imagery have been honed by classic training and two decades of practice mastering my craft. I have taught the principles of photography in higher education settings, and also have a well-rounded arts education rooted in the fundamentals of history and technique. My classical training brings reverence to my work, and my sensitivity allows me to approach people’s stories with compassion.
Photography becomes history and heritage. It acknowledges duality, our fleeting time on this earth. Our imagery reflects our legacy, our love, our connection within the ordered chaos of life. Marriage is a season of light, a commitment made, a promise of the bond that will hold us in darkness. The truth is that loss breaks us open even as it opens space for joy.
Our stories live in these spaces.
Being welcomed into my clients’ lives, and sharing and documenting such special moments in time, is truly an honor. As an empath, artist, and visual storyteller, I cannot emphasize enough how blessed I feel having the opportunity to turn my passion for image-making, love, and life into my work.
Connection nourishes me. Introspection, connection to self. Kindred ties to my family and friends. A soul-deep resonance with the natural world. The profound connection between hardship and triumph, loss and love.
We are here to experience all of this.
Life feels most full when I am learning and loving. I am inspired by floral farming and design, sustainability and compassion. I am enlivened by western landscapes, great food and drink, hiking, and quiet periods of reflection. Home is in mountain air, vintage furniture, old movies, family, and my French Bulldog, Nora.
I personally guide each and every creative partnership with our collective.