I'm Heather!

More than a vendor: my hope is that we become friends. I aim to tell your story by capturing the grand moments along with the quiet, intimate ones. As a lifestyle photographer my goal goes beyond a good photo. It's about creating an experience.

I want you to look back and remember the sparkle in your loved one's eyes, how soft your baby's skin felt against yours, the way it felt to walk hand in hand with your child. The moments are fleeting, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Newborn & first year sessions Get in touch

My story

Behind the camera

My photography journey started in high school, more than 25 years ago. After college I worked for nonprofits, where I was always the one taking pictures for our projects. When I lost my mom at 25, I left California for Missouri and took a hard look at what I wanted my life to be about.

That season led me to start my own photography business more than a decade ago. Today I photograph newborns, first years, families, weddings and brands from my studio in Carl Junction, and I photograph food for restaurants, brands and cookbooks through Culinary Captured.

25+years behind a camera

10+years in business

MBAmarketing focus

SW MOhome with my family

Newborn baby wrapped in green in a wreath, newborn photography by Studio 8412

What I love most

Newborns & the first year

Of everything I photograph, newborn and first year sessions are closest to my heart. I am gentle and patient with tiny babies, and every session is calm, unhurried and built around your baby's needs, with soft textures and simple, timeless setups.

From maternity to the newborn days, milestones and that first birthday cake, I love documenting how much changes in one short year.

Explore first year sessions See newborn work

Life at home

Family first

I live in Southwest Missouri with my husband and our two children. They remind me every day to find joy in the small things, and that is exactly what I look for in every session: the little hands, the giggles, the quiet in-between moments.

I also love people, small businesses and good food. That's what led to Culinary Captured, my food photography studio, and to The Gathered Seasons, my new food blog sharing recipes and stories rooted in season, heritage and community.

Heather Terry with her husband and two children

Ways to work with me

Find your session

Newborn & First YearMaternity, newborn, milestones and first birthdays. Family & PortraitsFamilies, seniors and portraits, studio or on location. WeddingsYour day, told naturally, from details to the dance floor. Branding & HeadshotsHeadshots and branding images for your business. Mini SessionsShort, styled seasonal sessions in the studio. Culinary CapturedFood photography for restaurants, brands, bloggers and cookbooks.

“She was gentle and has such a way with babies. If I could give 10 out of 5 stars I would.”

Rochelle · Newborn session

Let's create something you'll cherish

Tell me what season of life you're celebrating and I'll help you find the perfect session.

Book a newborn session Contact me