Meet Stephanie Rose | Wedding & Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Rose and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Ever since I can remember, I’ve been “the little artist.” As a kid, I was always the one doodling in the margins of my notebooks or drawing on every surface I could get my hands on. In high school, I even drew marker tattoos on my friends, convinced I’d one day become a tattoo artist. I still have stacks of sketchbooks filled with drawings I’ve held onto for years. I just can’t bring myself to throw any of them away. Creativity has always felt like the thing that gives my soul breath. It brings me so much joy and a sense of connection to the world around me. So when it came time to think seriously about my future, I knew whatever I did had to involve creativity. In 2009, I was introduced to the work of someone who became a dear friend, who would later become my mentor. Their photography style was unlike anything I’d seen at the time—before Pinterest and Instagram were even a thing. It wasn’t the stiff, posed portraits I’d grown up with. It was raw, honest, emotional. It was about capturing real moments, beautifully. That discovery opened a new door for me. I realized I could pursue a life in the arts in a way that was both meaningful, yet profitable.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I’ve been photographing people and their stories for over 16 years, and what I’m most proud of is the privilege of capturing some of life’s most intimate and meaningful moments, and that connection is what drives my work. Every session, every wedding, every shoot is a chance to preserve a piece of someone’s story. That’s an incredible honor, and I don’t take it lightly. I’m also proud of the places this work has taken me, both literally and emotionally. I’ve traveled far and wide, from backyards to mountaintops, to photograph people in all kinds of settings, and each location has its own spirit. I think what sets my work apart, is that I strive to capture people in their truest form, with honesty, warmth, and heart. My style is rooted in storytelling, emotion, and candid moments. There were definitely seasons of doubt, burnout, and pressure to compare myself to others in a saturated industry. But I pushed through by staying true to my “why.” I reminded myself that this isn’t just about photography, it’s about people. Trends come and go, but authenticity endures. If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and my brand, it’s this: I care deeply. Every photo I take is a reflection of someone’s life, and I treat that with the utmost respect.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Denton for the week, I’d be so excited to give them the full local experience, equal parts cozy, quirky, creative, and delicious. I’d take them out to dinner at Osteria Il Muro, easily one of the best handmade pasta spots around. The setting is intimate and every dish feels like it was made with love. Afterward, we’d walk over to Dan’s Silverleaf to catch some live music and a drink. The vibe there is pure Denton, laid back, full of character, and always a great show.
On Saturday morning, we’d start our day at the Denton Community Market, a perfect place to check out local vendors of talented creators and farmers. Then, we’d swing by Ravelin Bakery, a longtime local gem. Their pastries are unreal, I’d definitely make sure my friend tries a seasonal tart! Of course, no trip to Denton would be complete without getting lost inside Recycled Books. It’s a beloved maze of used books, records, and hidden treasures. We’d probably spend hours there, wandering the aisles and finding unexpected gems. Denton is full of interesting people, local musicians, makers, and creatives. To me, Denton is a place with a big heart and a strong sense of community. It’s artsy, a little offbeat, and totally genuine, and I’d love nothing more than to share that with someone I love.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have two very special shoutouts to give.

First, to the incredible photographer and mentor I mentioned earlier, Stephanie Davis. I first connected with her through Facebook, where I would ask her so many questions about photography. She was so generous with her time and knowledge. Eventually, she invited me to assist her at a few weddings. Her encouragement meant everything to me. Whenever I posted my work, she would always cheer me on and leave the kind of supportive comments that gave me confidence. As someone who was totally new and eager to learn, her belief in me was a huge motivator and helped me grow in those early years.

My second shoutout goes to my grandfather—my Papa. He was a photographer himself back in his day, complete with a darkroom in his closet where he developed photos of his family. When I was just starting out, he passed down all of his old film cameras, lenses, and gear to me. I still have every single piece he gave me nearly 16 years ago. For a long time, I used to wear his old leather camera strap—until I finally had to retire it. His legacy is woven into everything I do.

Both Stephanie and my Papa have since passed away, but their impact on my life and my creative journey is something I carry with me always. I’m forever grateful for their support, guidance, and love.

Website: https://www.stephanierosephotography.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephanierosephoto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephanierosephotography/

Image Credits
Stephanie Rose Photography