Today we’d like to introduce you to Bethanie Thielke.
Hi Bethanie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Photography found me during a season when I was learning just how quickly life changes and how precious memories become after having my children. What started as a creative outlet my senior year in high school grew into a lifelong passion for preserving the people, moments, and connections that matter most. Over the last 20 years, I’ve had the honor of documenting love stories all over the US and abroad, growing families, celebrations, and everyday moments that might otherwise be forgotten.
Photography has taught me to slow down, notice the beauty in the ordinary, and treasure the fleeting seasons of life. Every time I pick up my camera, I’m reminded that photographs become part of our legacy—telling stories long after the moment has passed. It is a privilege I never take for granted, and I’m grateful for every person who trusts me to preserve a piece of their story.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Entrepreneurship is never a smooth road. I began this journey in Northern California in May 2006. I moved my business and my family from California to Indiana in the summer of 2012. Relocating my business six years into my career and rebuilding in a new area took a lot of grit and passion. At that time, it seemed like in my new area many people had a photographer they were already working with. I actually wondered if this would be the end of an era. Persevering and knowing in my heart, the passion I have for preserving life through my camera, I didn’t give up. That passion has paid off.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a photographer and visual storyteller with over 20 years of experience capturing weddings, families, personal brands, and meaningful life moments. While I photograph a variety of subjects, I am especially known for creating images that feel genuine, emotional, and timeless. My approach blends documentary-style storytelling with gentle direction, allowing people to feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera.
What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me to document some of the most important moments of their lives. Many of my clients return year after year, allowing me to photograph their journeys as they grow and change. There is something incredibly meaningful about becoming part of a family’s story over time.
What sets me apart is my ability to connect with people and help them feel seen. Technical skills are important, but I believe the best photographs come from relationships, trust, and creating an experience where people can simply be themselves. My goal is always to create images that not only show what a moment looked like, but also capture how it felt. After two decades behind the camera, that purpose continues to inspire me every day.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can work with me in a variety of ways. I photograph weddings, families, seniors, branding sessions, events, and destination weddings, and I also create visual content for businesses looking to strengthen their online presence through photography and short-form video.
I love collaborating with fellow creatives, small business owners, venues, nonprofits, and brands that value authentic storytelling and meaningful connections. Whether it’s a one-time project, an ongoing content partnership, or a creative collaboration, I’m always excited to explore opportunities that align with my passion for helping people tell their stories.
One of the best ways to support my work is through referrals. Most of my business has grown through word-of-mouth, and there is no greater compliment than having a client, friend, or fellow creative recommend me to someone they know. Following along on social media, sharing my work, and engaging with my content also helps me reach new people and continue doing what I love.
Pricing:
- Weddings begin at $3800
- Sessions begin at $400
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Reallivingphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reallivingphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reallivingphotography
