🧳 My Favorite Places Photography Has Taken Me: Adventures, Memories & Storytelling Across the Map
- Kelly Stickelmaier
- Jun 7
- 3 min read
One of the most unexpected gifts photography has given me? Travel.

What started as a passion for storytelling and connection has turned into opportunities to explore some of the most beautiful, soul-filling places in the U.S.—camera in hand, heart wide open, and always surrounded by fellow creatives or incredible families. Whether I’m co-hosting a shootout through Inspired Souls Shootouts or traveling for a personal or client session, I’m constantly in awe of how photography has taken me places I once only dreamed of.
Here are just a few of my favorite destinations so far:
🌊 San Diego, CA
My very first Inspired Souls Shootout happened here—on the beach at sunset for a maternity session and in the fields for a dreamy family session. Sand, surf, and golden hour light? Yes please. San Diego officially stole a piece of my heart.
🌲 Boise, ID
This mountain shootout was all about rugged beauty and peaceful wilderness. Co-hosting in Boise reminded me just how grounding the mountains can be, and the light there was absolutely magical.
🏔 Estes Park, CO
Two family sessions set against the Rocky Mountains? Pure magic. The wind, the movement, the mountain air—it was storytelling heaven, and Estes Park will always hold a special place in my memory bank.
🌊 Oregon Coast & Cannon Beach
Talk about a dream location! I co-hosted two family shootouts here as part of Inspired Souls Shootouts. The misty coast, dramatic rock formations, and the way the light hit the waves… it was breathtaking. You truly haven’t experienced storytelling photography until you’ve done it with the ocean at your back.
🌉 Big Sur, CA
Cliffs, ocean, and families wrapped in each other’s arms—it doesn’t get better. Big Sur gave us two stunning sessions—one on the beach and one high above the coastline. I co-hosted this one with Inspired Souls as well, and I still can’t get over how incredible this location was.
🌵 Scottsdale, AZ
The desert might just be my favorite place to shoot. The tones, textures, and open space lend themselves so perfectly to connection and movement. I’ve attended a shootout in Scottsdale, and I’ll be back every spring (bonus: I have family in Mesa!). If you’ve ever wanted to meet me in the desert for a session… let’s do it.
☀️ Albuquerque, NM
I had the privilege of attending a retreat here that filled my creative cup in the most unexpected ways. It was the kind of experience that stays with you and sparks inspiration long after you’ve left.
Photography has become more than just a job—it’s an adventure. I’m so grateful to have explored these incredible places, built community with other photographers, and captured families against some of the most jaw-dropping backdrops in the country.
🪨 Elephant Rocks State Park, MO
This hidden gem in Missouri was such a fun and unique place to shoot. The massive granite boulders (that really do look like a parade of elephants!) created an epic backdrop for a family session full of adventure. The textures, tones, and natural playground vibes made it perfect for storytelling—especially with kiddos who love to explore! If you're local to Missouri or planning a road trip, this location is absolutely worth a stop with your crew (and your photographer 😉).
🌇 Coming Soon: Austin, TX & Charleston, SC
This fall, Inspired Souls is headed to Austin for a stylish urban family shootout—and we’ll be in Charleston soon after for some southern charm and coastal beauty. Both are going to be amazing, and I can't wait to see what we create!
Whether you’re dreaming of a mountain session, a desert shoot, or something right here at home, I’d love to create something beautiful with you. And if you're a photographer and want to join in on the fun check out the "for photographers" tab and read all about Austin and Charleston, I'd love to meet you there!!
Have a location in mind? Let’s go there. I’m always up for the next adventure. ✨

Comments