About

 
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Hello there!  My name is Amanda Alice Stevens.

I am a Boise-based natural light wedding and family photographer.  I have been an Idaho girl for 23 years, am an adventure seeker, an avid runner and summer mountain biker, wife of 22 years, and mother of seven awesome children!

What has given me creative outlet and vision?

“The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul”

– Dieter F. Uchtdorf

I am drawn to all things creative and the process therein.   

I find great enjoyment and satisfaction in bringing together simple ingredients of wholesome and real food, cooking a healthy (hopefully yummy) meal, and gathering with my family and friends at the dinner table.

I fondly remember standing by my Grandmother, easel to easel, watching her create beautiful works of art with her oil paints and brushes.  She taught me what she knew about art and then I continued to study it in college.  I love having an image in my mind and with the stroke of a brush on a blank canvas see that image take shape.

I grew up dreaming and designing clothing fashion, especially evening gowns.  My mother would take my drawings and the material I would purchase with my hard earned money and bring my visions to life.  I too have spent hours sitting at a sewing machine making everything from dresses for the wedding party to the soft blankets for the babies that followed.

I have never been shy about getting my hands dirty, digging in the earth’s soil, planting gardens and flowers.  I will never tire of the miraculous growing process.  My aspiring green thumb has dabbled in floral design and has even enjoyed the opportunities to use that hobby in event planning, weddings and simple corsages for special occasions.

My dirty hands and design desires have not been limited to the garden.  Drawing the plans for the building of three of our family homes and the extensive remodeling of 4 other homes has been the catalyst for many moves throughout the years.  My family has been patient through my constant ever-changing vision within the walls of our homes…but really who doesn’t love HGTV and a good trip to Home Depot!

I come from a long line of storytellers.  Family gatherings are full of reminiscing, sharing, and non-stop laughter.  It has been a natural desire for me to pen down the memories and moments of my family.  I have always been a journal keeper and enjoy organizing my thoughts on paper.  This has led to years and years of blogging. No story was ever complete without a picture to tell a thousand words.  Photos from my blog still speak volumes and give voice to my writings. 

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Where do I feel inspiration?

I have grown up playing, hiking, camping and running outside, from the deserts and red rocks of Southern Utah to the lush green old growth forests of Oregon.  My current backyard affords me the beautiful Boise foothills and the Boise River Greenbelt.  On my daily running, biking, or walking adventures my senses are always awakened.  I still marvel at the morning dew on the foothill sage bushes; the early sunrise that tells me it is going to be a great day; a magnificent Boise sunset that casts its golden glow across the valley.  I see beauty in the abundance of sunlight that illuminates and flickers through the leaves of the trees and glistens off of the tumbling Boise river water.  There is no greater inspiration and backdrop for the human story then what is found in the perfection of nature.

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How has my life experience and inspiration played a role in photography?

I genuinely enjoy and am interested in people.  My affinity toward the creative mediums, my outdoor enthusiasm, and real interest in the human experience has naturally translated into a deep passion for capturing it all through photography.  I am so lucky to be behind the camera.  I see unique angles, overlooked moments, and the beauty in the simple things.  I want to understand more of your story of life, your love, and would be thrilled to be part of your journey.  Let’s get to know each other, adventure together, and tell your story through the lens.

What equipment do I use?

I use a Canon EOS 5DS Camera outdoors and in premium light a Canon EOS 1D C Camera, perfect for lowlight and indoors. I have a desire to pull out my vintage but most advanced medium-format camera, the Contax 645 any chance I can.  I use a variety of lenses of which fill my three camera bags full.  My husband is the tech and equipment genius and can tell you any detail and information you could want to know about every lens and camera…but for me I would rather spend time with you and keep clicking.

Do I travel?

Yes, I love to travel! I have photographed in Europe, Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Idaho.  I am still in search of opportunities to expand my travel horizons.

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What steps do I take to get started?

Step 1: Greet and Meet

Send me an email, text, or pick up the phone, so we can look at dates and make an arrangement to meet.  We can get together at my home, on a walk along the greenbelt or sit in a coffee shop.  I would like to introduce myself and hear your story.  Every client is important.  I want to know how best to help you achieve your  dreams in your upcoming special event or photography shoot. I am going to send you home with homework, but don’t worry I think you will like it.

Step 2: Sign a contract and pay a deposit to hold your date on the calendar.

Step 3:  I will always scout out any new locations to look for the best angles and lighting for your upcoming day and time.  If it is for a wedding, we will go over location and details together.

Step 4: The big day!  It is your special day to look and feel your best.  Enjoy your moment and smile.