Sometimes the best journeys begin unexpectedly. For Hannah Shipe, wedding photography wasn’t always part of the plan. But through resilience, creativity, + a passion for storytelling, Hannah has built a thriving career capturing moments that feel as real as the emotions behind them. Featured in publications such as Unscripted App, Authentic Love Magazine, and Emotion Surfers with a style often described as “authentic, emotive, and cinematic,” Hannah’s work goes beyond photography—it’s an art form that celebrates life, love, + the stories that bind us together.

---

The Unexpected Journey to Photography

Hannah’s journey into photography began during a challenging chapter of her life. “I was never creative—or at least, I never knew I was,” she shares. Working in sports medicine, creativity wasn’t on her radar. But after moving to Hawaii and navigating an abusive marriage, her therapist encouraged her to find an outdoor hobby. Picking up a camera became a lifeline.

Living in Hawaii’s natural beauty, Hannah began photographing the world around her. What started as a way to heal quickly turned into a passion—and eventually, a career. Hannah discovered not just a love for photography but an innate ability to see the world differently and translate that into her work.

“Photography is everything to me,” she explains. “It’s my outlet, my art, and my way of connecting with people on a deeply personal level.”

---

A Style That Speaks to the Heart

Hannah describes her photography style as “authentic, emotive, and cinematic.” Her galleries capture not just how a moment looks but how it feels. This emotional depth is what draws couples to her.

“I focus on the in-between moments,” Hannah says. “The ones that feel raw and real. My clients don’t want stiff poses—they want images that reflect who they are and what they feel.”

Hannah’s sessions are anything but traditional. She crafts prompts based on her clients’ unique stories, ensuring each gallery feels personal. “I’d rather have them take off running and fall into each other than tell them where to put their hand or turn their head,” she laughs. This approach creates a dynamic, relaxed atmosphere where her clients can fully be themselves.

---

The Wedding Day Experience: Chill + Intentional

Hannah approaches every wedding with the same goal: to make her couples feel seen, supported, + celebrated. Her process begins long before the big day, with in-depth questionnaires and conversations that help her understand her clients’ vision and priorities.

On the wedding day, Hannah’s calm, friendly presence sets the tone. “By the time I arrive, it feels like I’m going to a friend’s wedding,” she says. She uses the details within the environment or personal items to create lived-in, natural imagery, avoiding the overly staged look of flat lays.

Hannah’s ability to anticipate moments before they happen ensures that candids fill her galleries. She captures emotions as they unfold—tears during the vows, laughter on the dance floor, + quiet glances shared between a couple. “I don’t force the story,” she explains. “I let it unfold naturally.”

---

Moments That Stay With You

Of all the shoots Hannah has done, her first paid session remains one of the most impactful. It was a breastfeeding session with a mother who wanted to commemorate her journey. “She shared intimate moments with her baby, knowing it would be the last time she breastfed,” Hannah recalls. Set against the backdrop of a Hawaiian field overlooking the ocean, it was a deeply emotional experience that solidified Hannah’s love for capturing raw, honest stories.

This ability to create meaningful work is what drives Hannah. “Every session reminds me why I love what I do,” she says.

---

Growth Through Creativity and Connection

Hannah believes in continually growing as an artist and a professional. For her, that means taking time to create for herself. She uses personal shoots to practice new techniques, experiment with lighting, and push creative boundaries.

“Growth comes from staying curious,” Hannah shares. “It’s about taking risks, reflecting, and repeating the process. And it’s about finding balance—between creating for clients and creating for myself.”

In addition to photography, Hannah helps other creatives grow their businesses through organic marketing and sales coaching. She approaches this work with the same intentionality she brings to her photography, helping others succeed in ways that feel authentic to them.

---

Hannah’s Advice for Couples and Creatives

For couples, Hannah’s advice is simple: “Be in the moment. Things will go wrong, timelines will shift, and drama might pop up—but don’t let it ruin your day. This is your story, and you deserve to enjoy it.”

For aspiring photographers, her advice is just as straightforward: “Find a mentor who knows the business side of things. Creativity is important, but it won’t matter if you don’t know how to book clients and run your business.”

---

A Photographer Who Sees Beyond the Frame

Hannah’s work is deeply personal, not just for her clients but for herself. Every session is an opportunity to connect, to tell a story, and to create art that’s as unique as the people she photographs.

Her favorite part? Seeing the joy her photos bring to her clients. “It’s about more than delivering a gallery,” she explains. “It’s about preserving emotions, moments, and memories that they’ll carry with them forever.”

---

Why Choose Photos by Hann Marie?

Hannah isn’t just a photographer—she’s a storyteller, an advocate, and a creative force who pours her heart into every session. Her ability to capture authentic, emotive, + cinematic images makes her a trusted choice for couples who want photos that feel deeply personal and real.

If you’re searching for a photographer who will capture your story with care, creativity, + intention, Hannah Marie is the one to call.

---

Ready to work with Hannah? Visit Photos by Hann Marie to learn more or book her for your next big day.