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Woman looking out over red rocks
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Hi! I'm Rachel

mom | professional third wheel | hype queen |  lover of all things a little offbeat.

Favs: Taylor Swift | Camping | Gilmore Girls | Cheesecake | Spooky anything | Hockey

Dislikes: Mayonnaise 

I didn’t grow up with a camera in my hand—I grew up in Kuwait, bounced through nine high schools, and eventually landed my first photography gig at Picture People in the Brea Mall.

 

Picture it: screaming toddlers, fluorescent lighting, and way too many head tilts. Glamorous? Not even close. But it taught me how to work under pressure, connect quickly, and find the beauty in chaos.

Years later, my ex-mother-in-law threw a wild, $80k wedding and handed me a camera, saying, “You’re shooting it.” I had no clue what I was doing—but I figured it out. And I never stopped.

Since then, I’ve photographed everything from high-energy dance floors to teary-eyed elopements on mountaintops. I’ve captured micro-weddings in backyards, intimate vows at sunrise, and bridal boudoir sessions that turned into self-love breakthroughs.

 

I specialize in documenting the real stuff: the kind of moments that sneak up on you, knock you sideways, and stay with you forever.

As an Arizona and Colorado wedding photographer, I show up for couples who want connection, not perfection. You won’t find me barking orders or hiding behind a bush—I’ll be the one calming your nerves, fixing your timeline, adjusting your veil, handing you tissues, and gently guiding you through your day like the camera-wielding emotional support human I am.

My goal is simple: to help you feel grounded, safe, and fully yourself so you can actually enjoy your wedding day.

 

I document the story as it unfolds—with empathy, humor, and a deep respect for the love you’ve built. Whether you're eloping with your person on a rocky overlook or throwing a backyard micro-wedding with chosen family, I’ll be there to capture every imperfect, heart-full second.

I’m also a mom to a spunky five-year-old named Denver, a pet parent to a dog, cat, and a lizard, and a two-time divorcée with a healthy sense of humor about it. Life has been beautifully chaotic—and that’s why I do what I do. I get it. I see you. And I can’t wait to celebrate you.

Photographer in Colorado Springs
Photographer on Icelandic Glacier
Wedding Photographer, Rachel Dowd, stands in front of Horse Shoe Bend in Page Arizona
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My Life in Photos

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Wedding Photo of Bride and Groom in the Snow smiling happily

From the initial meeting to final product, Rachel was AMAZING to work with! She took the time to not only understand my daughter's vision for the photos, but also the family dynamics to help with a smooth day!! Wedding was held at Pueblo Mountain Park wth about 60 guests during a freak snowstorm and Rachel captured the day beautifully! She kept everyone on track in order to get the best moments in print, and she was just the perfect balance of "in charge" and kindness. Highly recommend without hesitation

wedding photo of bride and groom sharing their first kiss after saying I DO.
Engagement Photo of a man and a woman sharing an intimate embrace
engagement photo of a man and a woman in Flagstaff Arizona
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