About

Hello, I am Katya!

I am a portrait, family and editorial photographer based in Menlo Park, California. I really enjoy photographing people and the many ways each one of us shows up in the world.

It is a true joy to take photos and I love helping my clients develop and carry out a vision for their photo session. The photos I create are a blend of timeless, classic portraits with the in-between “lifestyle” moments—those unscripted, genuine interactions where emotions shine the brightest.

I know that stepping in front of the camera can feel awkward, and my goal is to make the experience comfortable and stress-free. From the moment we start working together, I’ll guide you through the process, helping you feel at ease so your confidence and personality shine through.

I love collaborating with my clients to bring their vision—whether you have a clear idea of what you want or just a feeling you’re trying to capture. Through thoughtful direction, attention to detail, and a focus on creating a comfortable environment, I ensure that your photos not only look great but also feel authentic.

A little about me… My love for photography began when I got my first camera at 11 years old. I had just moved from Russia (then the Soviet Union) to the United States, and everything around me felt new and fascinating. I spent hours wandering with my camera, capturing anything that caught my eye.

That early passion led me to art and photography classes and sparked a career in design, with a slight detour to earn an MBA. After After my husband and I met and our 3 kids were born, I fell in love with portrait and lifestyle photography in particular.

When I’m not behind the camera, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love getting in a challenging workout, always with my favorite music playing to keep me motivated.