I left my job as a teacher and opened my own photography studio in 2003. My work focused on families, children, and weddings; while Koby stayed on the commercial side in marketing, branding, architectural and editorial work. Eventually, I convinced him to help me at some of my weddings, and from there, we began to work together more often. In 2011, Koby and I joined forces to open Archetype Studio Inc.

The dog catalog event sparked a new interest in photography for me - capturing live subjects on camera was so much more exciting than the typical commercial product shoots I had helped with in the past. At my begging, Koby taught me the mechanics of photography: lighting, lenses, cameras, composition, etc. I soaked it all up and starting practicing with friends and family for engagement and couple’s shoots. 

 I opened the door, and FOURTEEN tiny Yorkshire Terriers poured into the studio space like a bubbling river of hairy happiness. My heart almost popped. The dogs immediately proceeded to mark everywhere in the space, including the pristine white backdrop, but I couldn’t have cared less, I was already in love. I helped wrangle all those little heartbeats into their costumes and clothing and Koby successfully shot the hell out of that campaign. Side note, I convinced him to take partial payment in trade, and we adopted one of the puppies - tiny Marley was my heartbeat at my feet for 15 years.

Koby and I met in high school… in English class. I purposefully ‘forgot’ pens and paper so I would have a reason to turn around and talk to him (he sat diagonally behind me). He finally asked me out and we dated all through college. I graduated from Texas A&M and began my first year of teaching; during which, he popped the question, and I said YES! I continued teaching during our early years as a married couple, but I would sometimes help him in his studio on the weekends - especially if he had an interesting shoot.
On one weekend in particular, knowing my adoration of all things dog, Koby asked if I wanted to come help with a catalog shoot for a dog clothing company. “The client is bringing two dogs. You can assist the dog handler.” he told me. I’ve never been more excited to help! On the day of the shoot, we could hear what sounded like a lot more than just two dogs coming down the long concrete hallway that led to Koby’s studio and offices.

While my journey into photography was inspired by my husband… I really need to give credit where credit is due… to the dogs… specifically, Yorkshire Terriers. Let me explain.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR, Wife, Mother