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Haverlee Photography in Des Moines Iowa

Hi! Let me introduce myself...

I’m Haverlee, (hay-verlee), a solo parent of three teen boys, adventure seeker, and photographer. My photography career was birthed from many years of pain. A decade ago, my life derailed and everything felt unstable and uncertain. The more difficult things became, the more I clung to small moments of beauty. And I could always find beauty in people and in nature. Focusing on others instead of my own dark days brought me joy every time without fail.

 

I always knew I was creative but it took me a while to find my niche! As I ventured further into photography, everything fell into place. It was as if I already knew the language, I just had to find the words.

 

I got remarried in 2023 in the mountains of North Carolina to the love of my life, and walked down the aisle to Brandi Carlile's, Beginning to Feel the Years. Jacob is steady, safe, and sure. We're maintaining a long distance marriage until our kiddos have all launched from the nest, but thankfully this career allows us plenty of freedom and flexibility. And he's now my best 2nd shooter! Life continues to delight and surprise me and I'm here for the beautiful mess of it all.

 

I’m an Enneagram 2w3 and an INFP. If you don’t speak the lingo, that means I’m into helping people, I feel everything deeply, and I view the world with childlike curiosity. I’m a total mix of over enthusiasm and quiet observation.


Favorite TV shows: Normal People & Bad Sisters

Favorite Movie: About Time (the only movie I've rewatched multiple times)

Favorite National Park: Yosemite (sunsets from Sentinel Dome are a life highlight)

Favorite Books: So hard to choose. The Bronze Horseman, The Heart's Invisible Furies, The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell, These Silent Woods...I could discuss books for days on end.

 

I love connecting deeply with humans and hearing people’s stories. I’d love to have the chance to tell a chapter of yours.

Let's chat!

If you're inquiring about wedding photography, please head to the wedding page and fill out the more extensive contact form at the bottom of that page..

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Where you can also find me:

iowa wedding photographer

“We trust her completely with our family memories and won’t use anyone else. If you’re looking for someone who is talented, professional, and genuinely wonderful to work with, look no further.”

-Tasha

FAQ’s that don’t actually matter: 
• What kind of equipment do you use? (The professional kind.)
• What’s your photography style? (Depends on the light.) 
• Have you shot at our venue before? (A pro will scope things out beforehand and quickly know how to identify the best spots for portraits.)

FAQ’s that matter a LOT:
• How do you ensure our photos are safe? (Dual card slots should be recording simultaneously. Photos should be kept in two different places and stored safely until uploaded and delivered, including for destination weddings. I never leave all cards in a car in case of theft.)
• Can we see a full gallery? (Some photogs have good work to share on socials but aren’t as confident in low light or less than attractive getting ready spaces. Be leery of only pretty photos from styled shoots.)
• Can we hop on a FaceTime call or meet in person? (You absolutely must gel with your photographer’s personality and energy. This is equally as important as their work.) 
• Do you have reviews we can read? (You betcha.) 

Those four Q’s should be pretty foolproof in ensuring a good experience. 🥂

Photographing love and life in Central Iowa, western north carolina, and beyond.