MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER — MARIAH
Mother | Lover | PhotogRapher | CREATOr | Survivor
Based in Minnesota + Worldwide
Your official hype girl & professional third wheel — Capturing your story as a genuine friend for life.
Hey LoveS, My name is Mariah —
As the heart and soul behind Love Big Live Small Photography, I wear many hats in this beautiful journey we call life. I’m a mother, a lover, a sister, a dog mom x2, an entrepreneur, a photojournalist, a dancer, an outdoor enthusiast, a travel lover, a lifelong creative, a breast cancer survivor, and so much more. For me, capturing the soul of my clients begins with building genuine relationships that are rooted in trust. I specialize in creating a safe, fun space where your truest self shines effortlessly during your session.
My love for photography started in 2007 when I received my first digital camera—a red Nikon Coolpix—in middle school. Since then, I’ve rarely been without a camera in hand! My creative approach is deeply influenced by my background as a competitive dancer and my experience as a model, allowing me to guide my clients into poses that feel natural, graceful, and authentically you. Having been on both sides of the camera, I know what it takes to create images that truly reflect your best self from every angle, just as you are!
My time as a Minnesota Vikings Cheerleader taught me how to handle styling touch-ups with ease, ensuring you look and feel your absolute best in front of my lens. I further honed my craft at the University of Minnesota’s School of Journalism & Mass Communications, where I developed a sharp eye for storytelling and branding. This foundation allows me to capture stunning imagery that not only documents your story but also helps small businesses stand out in a crowded digital world.
One of the greatest honors of my work is being trusted with your most intimate and meaningful moments—whether it’s letting me in on a surprise proposal, a pregnancy announcement, or documenting the fleeting milestones of motherhood. Being invited into these life-changing moments is a privilege I hold close to my heart, and it’s why trust remains at the core of everything I do.
Let’s get to the part where I become your official third-wheel & photographer bestie—here to capture your story with artistry, authenticity, and care!
A FEW OF THE Things that make me SMiLE
MY BABY OAKLEY KAYE
My Faith & Family
STORYTELLING & DOCUMENTING
dancing MY HEART OUT
Camping
THE OUTDOORS
Traveling
Hot tea with my lover
WORKING OUT
Golden Hour
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT
making MEALS from scratch
hiking in the mountains
My 2 doggies
Self Care & Spa Days
snowboarding
dates under the moon
Hair and Makeup
I promise to show up wholeheartedly, no matter what season of life I’m walking through —
In case you’ve noticed the evolution of my hairstyles on social media and throughout my website, it’s because I am still learning to embrace my newfound identity as a Stage 2 Breast Cancer Survivor. I am wearing a wig in many of these photos but my hair is currently the short bob style!
In January of 2022, I found a lump on my chest near my collar bone, initially thinking it was a clogged milk duct from breastfeeding. I went through countless biopsies, scans, and surgeries to learn the severity of my diagnosis. It was Stage 2, Grade 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. The most aggressive type of breast cancer. I found out through this diagnosis that I am positive for the gene mutation BRCA2, predisposing me to cancer.
My journey began with a bilateral mastectomy, followed by shaving my long blonde hair to start five months of intense chemotherapy. After that, I endured two months of high-dose targeted radiation therapy. Then, several reconstructive surgeries helped to rebuild my chest with implants. I fought for my life from January 2022 until my final surgery in May 2023, all while navigating the challenge of becoming a single mother. Many people know I was previously married to my ex-husband, with whom I spent 15 years and share a beautiful daughter, Oakley. Despite the pain and uncertainty of these traumatic events happening simultaneously, I’ve come to realize that God had bigger plans for me and my family.
Going through cancer and a divorce within two years was a journey I never imagined facing, but it’s taught me the power of connection. I share these life events with you because they remind me of how we bond as humans beyond the surface level. I feel called to be vulnerable and share my story so we can connect on a deeper level. Whether you’re a cancer warrior, navigating the challenges of a partner’s addiction, or walking through your own season of hardship, I see you and I understand your struggles. You are not alone. Together, we can create something beautiful out of life’s most difficult chapters.
Life after cancer —
I had no idea what life would look like after breast cancer—or if I’d even make it to the other side. But this journey has brought many unexpected blessings. Today, I am blessed to be cancer-free since 2022, deeply in love, thriving in my business, traveling often, and, most importantly, being a present mother. Cancer was the test that became my testimony. By placing my full Faith in the Lord, I’ve been able to rise above the daily fears and anxieties that come with surviving by the grace of God.
Following my divorce, dating was the last thing on my mind, especially during the vulnerable stages of hair regrowth after chemotherapy. Yet, in that season, I met Cody John—the love of my life. From my buzz cut days onward, he saw beyond the surface and loves me for who I truly am. As it turns out, his mother is also a breast cancer survivor, making our connection feel beautifully orchestrated by God. This experience has profoundly shaped me—both personally and professionally. I document life with more passion and intention than ever, knowing how precious each moment is.
While I am fiercely committed to my clients and my craft, my health and family will always come first. Balance isn’t always easy as a business owner who loves what I do, but it’s non-negotiable. For this reason, my editing timeframes are treated as thoughtful estimates, allowing me to give each gallery the care and artistry it deserves. I am deeply grateful for clients who trust this process and know that I will deliver images that far exceed expectations, without the need for check-ins or reminders. Your patience allows me to pour my heart into every detail and ensures your memories are preserved with the highest level of care.
To my clients —thank you for your understanding and prayers. It is an honor to walk this new chapter, and I am so grateful to be here, celebrating life alongside you.
Shout out to my Faith for carrying me through! †
LOVE LIFE, NOT THINGS
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LOVE LIFE, NOT THINGS -
Capturing your life as art.
Let’s make magic together!—Submit an inquiry today to check my availability and take the first step toward bringing your dream photos to life! From curating a custom mood board to crafting a seamless, luxury experience, we’ll work together to create stunning imagery that captures your vision and tells your unique story.
