Elk Grove Portrait Photographer

 Because Every Picture Tells A Story

Servicing Elk Grove California and the greater Sacramento area

High school senior smiling during a golden hour outdoor senior portrait session in a wildflower field near Elk Grove, California
Family of four standing together during an outdoor fall family portrait session in Elk Grove, California
Expecting couple sharing a quiet moment during an outdoor maternity portrait session in Elk Grove, California
Newborn baby girl peacefully sleeping during a studio newborn photography session with soft pink florals in Elk Grove, California
One-year-old baby girl standing beside a stool with florals during an outdoor milestone portrait session in Elk Grove

“We do not remember days, we remember moments.”
-Cesare Pavese

Welcome to Shawn Spencer Photography – Life moves fast, and the moments you’re living right now won’t always feel this close. I help families, seniors, and growing parents slow things down — capturing meaningful moments so you can remember not just how this season looked, but how it felt. From the excitement of senior year to the quiet sweetness of a newborn, a growing family, or the anticipation of maternity, these images become the memories you’ll hold onto for years to come.

With over 18 years of experience photographing senior portraits, family photos, newborn sessions, milestone memories, and maternity, I guide you through every step of the process. From planning and preparation to relaxed, natural sessions, you’ll never be left wondering what to do or how to feel in front of the camera. I’m here to make the process comfortable, relaxed, and enjoyable, so you can focus on being present and making memories together. These images aren’t just for today — they’re for the memories you’ll revisit for years to come.

Newborns

Milestones

Photography Services

Seniors

Families/Children

Maternity

Meet Shawn Spencer

Hi, I’m Shawn — the photographer behind Shawn Spencer Photography. I’m based in Elk Grove, California, and proudly serve families throughout the Sacramento area. As the sole photographer, I’m with you every step of the way, from planning your session to delivering the images you’ll cherish for years.

I love working with seniors, families, and growing parents during meaningful seasons of life, helping them feel comfortable, confident, and fully supported in front of the camera. My approach is relaxed and guided, allowing genuine moments to unfold naturally — the laughter, the connection, and the little in-between moments that make your story uniquely yours.

If you’re looking for a photographer who truly cares about your experience and your memories, you’re in the right place.

A photographer headshot wearing a burgundy striped blouse holding her camera up near her face.
More about Shawn

Testimonials

“Shawn is amazing! She is so talented and professional. She was able to captured the essence of the moment and the pictures turned out better than I had anticipated. She created a great and personal experience for my daughter. Shawn is not only skilled behind the lens but also incredibly personable and attentive to the specific needs and preferences of her clients. She made the entire photoshoot feel comfortable and natural, which is reflected in the final product. I would highly recommend Shawn to anyone seeking exceptional and captivating images. Her work speaks for itself, and I have no doubt that she will continue to create breathtaking photography for years to come.” - Giselle Miller

Young woman in floral dress and boots walking on brick-paved street.
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What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate? Weather is something I watch closely, especially during spring. Cloudy days can actually be wonderful for portraits, and if conditions truly aren’t ideal, we’ll talk through options to
Babies don’t need to sleep the whole session 🤍 This sweet girl was wide awake for most of her newborn session — and that’s completely okay. Newborn sessions are baby-led. Some babies sleep, some stretch, some stay curious the ent
This maternity session was all about keeping things simple and meaningful 🤍 Celisa, her husband Jose, and their son Julian met me at Cosumnes River Preserve to capture this sweet season before their family grows. We stayed in one cozy spot, soaked
Those first weeks with your new baby go by so incredibly fast. Newborn sessions are designed to be calm, cozy, and baby-led. You don’t need to prepare anything beyond showing up — I guide everything gently. Spring babies photograph bea
Some of my favorite images come from the in-between moments—the laughs, the movement, the little interactions that happen when you’re not focused on the camera. This session was a great reminder that connection always matters more than p
Happy Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day isn’t just about couples — it’s about love in all forms. The giggles, the hugs, the way your kids still reach for your hand. Those are the moments worth remembering.
What if we feel awkward or don’t know how to pose? The good news is—that’s completely normal. Most people feel that way at first. I guide you through natural movement and simple prompts that help you relax into the session. You do
Morgan Sherman Miller | Class of 2026 🎓 Morgan wanted his senior session to feel simple, confident, and true to him — so we kept it clean with one classic outfit and focused on great locations. Old Elk Grove was the perfect fit for the &
What it’s like to work with me! If you’ve ever wondered what it’s actually like to work with me, here’s the short version: you’re not doing this alone. From the first inquiry through your final gallery, I guide you eve
Spring has a way of reminding us how quickly time moves. Family portrait sessions are perfect for capturing connection, laughter, and the little moments you don’t want to forget. Sessions are easygoing and guided so everyone feels comfortable

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