Hey,
I'm MaKayla.
I'm a St. Louis based photographer, wife of a high school math teacher, and a mother to two beautiful boys. Midwest Photography is all about keeping things real, fun, and totally stress-free. Whether you’ve been in front of a camera a hundred times or it’s your first shoot ever, I’ve got you.
I believe great photos don’t have to come with awkward poses or over-the-top price tags. My approach is simple: keep it candid, keep it comfortable, and capture moments that actually feel like you. No forced smiles. No pressure. Just genuine connection, real emotion, and images you'll love for years without having to pay luxury prices for amazing quality.
I’m here to make the whole process easy — from booking to final gallery. I'm known for being calm, professional, and super easy to work with (even if your kids are bouncing off the walls or your timeline is a little chaotic — I totally get it).
If you're looking for affordable, high-quality photos and a photographer who feels more like a friend than a stranger, I’d love to work with you!
Let’s make some magic together.
From the
beginning.
I discovered my passion for photography in high school the moment I picked up my first camera. I was instantly captivated by the ability to freeze time and preserve life’s most meaningful moments.
After having my first child, I searched everywhere for a photographer with a strong portfolio who was also affordable but honestly... I kept coming up short. That’s when I had a thought: Why aren’t there more photographers for the average family? Maybe I can be that person for my clients. Since then, I’ve built my business with that mission at heart. I continue to offer options like “Pay Your Age Minis” twice a year and work with clients to create custom packages that suit their budget because capturing important memories should be accessible to everyone.
With a background in nurseries, daycares, and as a private nanny, I bring a unique skill set to working with children of all temperaments—whether they’re energetic, shy, or feeling overwhelmed. I truly understand how to connect with kids in a way that puts them at ease.
That’s why I focus on candid photography. Candid moments allow the pressure to melt away, making the overwhelming feel less intimidating and the ordinary feel more magical. No child wants to hear, “Okay, now smile! Come on, say cheese? Just one more and then we’ll take a break.” Instead, I aim to create a relaxed, playful environment where the photo session feels like a fun family outing. My goal is for everyone to walk away not just excited to see the final gallery, but also feeling like they’ve spent real, joyful quality time together.
We do it all!
We aren't just your local family photographer, we strive to meet the needs of anyone needing any type of photography. I offer a full range of photography services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether you're looking for portraits, events, weddings, commercial, product, real estate, lifestyle, or creative concept shoots, I have the experience and flexibility to deliver high-quality results in any style. My goal is to bring your vision to life through photography, no matter the setting or occasion.
The Process
01. Connect
Share your story
01. Connect
Share your story
Let us know your vision for your shoot, you can tell me your story, share your inspiration pictures, or we can just talk about the vibe you're wanting to go for.
02. Conceptualize
Develop Your Vision
02. Conceptualize
Develop Your Vision
We work together to bring your vision to life, including the editing style you prefer.
03. Create
Bring it to life
03. Create
Bring it to life
The best part! Fun, super relaxed, and full of good vibes. My goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere where you can just be yourself—no pressure, no stress. We'll keep things sweet and easygoing so you can actually enjoy the moment while I capture it.