the journal
Planning a family reunion can feel a bit like herding cats—lots of moving parts, plenty of opinions, and endless logistics. But choosing the right destination can make all the difference, transforming a complicated event into a memorable, joy-filled gathering. That’s exactly why the Black Hills of South Dakota are the perfect place for your next […]
The Peters crew—gosh, I just adore them. When Abby reached out about updating their family photos (and sharing some big news about their newest little love!), I knew we had to make it something special. So we kept it simple and sweet: blankets, a little pretend picnic, and a setting that felt just right for […]
I'm Michaela mader Tully
The Michaela you'll find making beautiful images of your family.
I’m a storytelling photographer based in the Black Hills of South Dakota, specializing in family connections, intimate weddings, and elopements.
My style? Think warm evening light, authentic moments, and a dash of Mary Oliver poetry—because life’s best stories are a little wild, a little soft, and always real.
When I’m not behind the camera, I’m probably chasing my kids, hiking trails that smell of Ponderosa pine, or sipping coffee that’s gone lukewarm because, well, #momlife.
Let's create something beautiful and real together.
The kind of photos that feel like home, like belly laughs and evening light, like the fleeting moments you never want to forget. Ready to tell your story? Let’s do this.
