Photography became something different for me in 2025, when I unexpectedly lost my dad, Russell. In the months that followed, I found myself returning to photographs again and again, reminded of just how much they can hold onto.

That experience became part of the heart behind Lauren Russell Studio, which I named after my dad. I believe photographs matter because they preserve the little things we don’t realize we’ll miss, like the people we love, the way our families look right now, and the moments that only exist for a little while.

I’m a former graphic designer and stay-at-home mom living in San Diego County with my husband, our two daughters, two cats, and one dog. When I’m not photographing people, you’ll usually find me spending time with family and friends, walking, hanging at the beach, or making something creative.

I feel incredibly lucky to create photographs that become part of other families’ stories, too!