Mikayla Herrick
Seattle, USA
Argentina
Woman-Owned Business
Seattle-based photographer Mikayla Herrick has always been led by her creative instincts, whether capturing fleeting moments through her lens or embracing the all-encompassing beauty of motherhood. Now, she brings another dimension to her artistry with Little Eyes, her debut children’s book illustrated by fine artist Hanna Peterson. Rooted in connection and intimacy, Mikayla’s work invites families to see beauty in the ordinary and hold closer to one another.
Offerings:
– Wedding & Family Photography
– Documentary Portrait Sessions
– Children’s Book: Little Eyes
What drew you to photography as an art form?
Honestly, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t drawn to photography. I have a few cringy 2010 Facebook albums to prove it. In school, we had a class each quarter where we had to write down what we wanted to do for our career and I vividly remember writing down photography every time. My dad is also an artist and I think seeing his work over the years of relationship with him might have something to do with it, as well. However, it really wasn’t until Brice taught me how to use a camera properly and the beginning of Instagram that I turned it into my career.
What does a day in your studio look like at the moment?
There’s a lot of behind the scenes within the work of photography. Aside from actually showing up and photographing a session or wedding, much of the work is done in pre and post-processing. There’s communicating with clients through email, creating timelines, sorting through family photo lists, location scouting, vendor referrals, culling, editing, sending in film, receiving scans, uploading galleries, running to the camera store every so often for film or new gear, preparing taxes, bookkeeping, sending invoices, sending contracts. Most of my work day entails the administrative side of things listed above. The part I enjoy most is being with my clients and photographing them as they are.
How has your experience of being a mother shaped you see the world?
Becoming a mama has changed just about every aspect of my life. Motherhood is beautiful in that it is all-consuming, and that’s always what can make it hard. I have found it difficult to find the ‘balance’ between work and motherhood. So much of my heart and desire is to be with my family, but there’s still part of me that loves and enjoys work. As he is growing older, I am learning that it’s okay to do both. I think this is something all moms work through at one point or another.
What inspired you to create a children’s book?
My sweet boy and I were playing in bed one evening when I said the infamous line in my book. I remember thinking that it would make a cute children’s book and here we are! I have a few other book ideas that will hopefully come to fruition through Little Eyes.
How has creativity played a role throughout in your life?
As I've grown, it's evolved into a way of life, shaping not just the stories I tell but also the way I perceive and capture the world through my lens. Creativity isn't just about making things; it's a lens through which I view the world, finding beauty in the ordinary and turning moments into memories.
What is something you hope to inspire in others through your work?
I want to bring families together. I want little ones to feel connected to their caregivers. The goal of my work is always connection. Whether it’s through my photography or my books, I hope people feel closer to one another after experiencing my work.
Studio Notes
Creative Rituals
Client photography sessions, post-processing, and quiet moments of writing.
Currently Exploring
Expanding Little Eyes into a series of children’s books.
Three Words
Intentional, tender, connected.
