Today we’d like to introduce you to Hannah Watkins.
Hi Hannah, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started photographing weddings in the most unexpected way, in the middle of the pandemic. Back then, big celebrations were on pause, but love definitely wasn’t. I began capturing small, intimate backyard weddings around Detroit, and I quickly fell in love with the beauty of those simple, real moments.
Since then, my business has grown, but my approach has stayed the same — I’m here to help couples feel calm, present, and completely themselves on their wedding day. I know weddings can feel a little chaotic (in the best way!), and I love being the person who not only documents the moments but helps keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
Whether I’m helping you plan your timeline or ensuring you sneak away for a few quiet minutes together, my goal is to make your day feel effortless and to give you photos that let you relive it all for years to come.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
What started as a few small backyard weddings has turned into the most rewarding path I could’ve imagined. Along the way, I’ve learned that this industry can be incredibly seasonal — and that’s brought its own set of challenges. But over time, I’ve learned to see the slower months as an opportunity. I use that time to grow, refine my craft, and work on my business behind the scenes. It’s when I refresh my website, fine-tune my marketing, and update the guides and resources I share with my couples. This way, I can show up even better when wedding season rolls back around.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Hannah Jo Watkins Photo?
I’m a wedding, family, and brand photographer based in Metro Detroit. Over the years, I’ve found that my favorite part of this work isn’t just taking photos — it’s helping people feel at ease and fully present in the moments that matter most.
When it comes to weddings, I love being more than just the person behind the camera. I help my couples plan thoughtful timelines so their day runs smoothly and they can soak in every second. On the wedding day, I’m my couple’s biggest advocate. I strive to keep things calm, fun, and organized so they can focus on celebrating while I capture it all as it unfolds naturally.
Outside of weddings, I also specialize in brand photography. I love helping small businesses elevate their online presence and tell their story through powerful, intentional imagery. Together with my business partner, we’ve helped entrepreneurs build their brands from the ground up — from branding photos and website design to social media strategy. Our goal is to help you create a cohesive, authentic brand that connects with your audience and sets your business up for success.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
There are so many people who deserve credit for the success of my business. My parents and my wife have supported me on every front throughout this journey, and I truly couldn’t have done it without them. I’m also incredibly grateful for my photographer friends who continue to challenge, inspire, and push me to keep learning and growing — including Stephanie of Stephanie Parshall Photography, Morgan of Morgan Jean Photography, Erica of Erica Kearns Photo, and Autumn of Autumn and Hive.
And most importantly, thank you to all of my amazing clients who have trusted me to document their stories. Your support means the world to me and is the reason I get to do what I love every single day.
Pricing:
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hannahjowatkins.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahjowatkins/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HannahJoWatkins
