HI! I'M SHYLA. HERE'S MY STORY.
I'm a portrait and lifestyle photographer based in Sarasota, FL. I specialize in capturing real, raw, and honest moments—telling the unique stories of people’s lives. My work spans across Sarasota County, Manatee County, Pinellas County, and Tampa with travel to Rhode Island.
Photography began as a hobby in my teenage years but quickly became a deep passion, and now it’s a career I truly love. It has given me a way to appreciate and express the beauty found in everyday life.
Beyond creating authentic images, my goal is to make every session feel fun and relaxed. I know that being in front of the camera can be intimidating. Before becoming a professional photographer, I worked as a fashion model in Boston and NYC. My experience in front of the camera shaped how I work with clients—it helps me create a comfortable, trusting environment where you can feel like yourself. I’ve been there, I know what it’s like, and we’re in this together!
SOME OTHER THINGS THAT I LOVE, IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER...
Casey. My husband and my number one supporter. He always has my back. He is also a patient and wonderful model. He’s my test subject when I have wild ideas or see beautiful light.
Cece. My mini, my tiny best friend, my new focus and motivation, my heart outside of my body. You get it, I love her.
Stanley and Henry. My dog and my cat. Two rescues from Nate's Honor Animal Rescue. They are a challenge and a joy. I love them with my whole heart.
Rhode Island. Where I was born and raised. Where much of my family lives, including my sister (who happens to be my best friend in the whole wide world). Where I learned how to drive. Where I got my first tattoo. No matter where I end up it will always be my home and always have my heart. This is where photography started for me. When I was a teenager I would drive to the beach with my disposable camera and photograph the sunset, the sand, the birds, the waves. I saw beauty all around me. It was my creative outlet and also a form a meditation before I even knew what that was.
New York City. I lived there for nine years before moving to Sarasota. I met some of the most amazing people (including my husband) and I will be forever grateful for my years and experiences there. As you can imagine, there is an endless amount supply of inspiration in NYC. I did my first “365 project” there and will always cherish the images I created.
Yoga. While living in NYC, I completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training at Sonic Yoga in Hell’s Kitchen. It was life-changing to say the least. I have learned so much through yoga, both about my physical body and about life. My love for photographing people was initially fueled by photographing yoga teachers and students at The Yoga Shack here in Sarasota. I’ve been told by clients that I have a calming presence and I 100% believe that comes from my yoga practice.