Morgan Rydell

based in Santa Barbara, CA

Hi, I’m Morgan!

Growing up, I moved slowly.

I got distracted by the sparkly things. I noticed the little details. I loved to take it all in.

And honestly, not much has changed.

I’ve always felt deeply connected to the people and world around me. Since I was little, I’ve been inspired by nature, my family and friends, and the beauty tucked into ordinary, everyday life. I'm sentimental, highly sensitive and forever noticing the moments that might otherwise pass us by.

Since the day I was gifted my first camera, I've pretty much never put one down. I love to capture it all!

Growing up, so many of my memories include my dad carrying around a video camera, documenting the simple day-to-day adventures of life with three little girls. On special occasions, my mom was always quick to pull out her film camera and snap the perfect picture—freezing all those tiny details in time.

Now, as adults, my sisters and I get to look back on those memories with nostalgia. Moments that somehow feel like yesterday are still there for us to revisit through photos and videos.

I'm incredibly grateful my childhood was captured in that way, and now I am lucky enough to get the honor of sharing that same gift with others.

For over a decade, I've worked with children and families as an educator specializing in autism, while always keeping photography and filmmaking woven into my life. For many years, my sister and I ran an intimate wedding videography business together called Willow Street films, while family photography has always remained my personal sweet spot.

My love for children, families, and the beauty of Santa Barbara naturally found its way into my photography. I'm drawn to the real stuff—the belly laughs, sandy toes, little hands, big hugs, raw emotions, and all the beautiful in between moments that make your life yours.

Because if I've learned anything, it's this:

Life moves fast. So take the damn pictures!

Capturing the magic in people's lives continues to be one of my greatest joys + my favorite side hustle :)

When I'm not behind the camera, I continue to spend my time supporting some pretty incredible young clients and their families—and I feel very lucky that both sides of my life revolve around connection, creativity, and people I care about.

I'd love the chance to capture a little piece of your story too.

So go ahead, reach out. I can't wait to meet you!