HEY! I’m Chelsea!

collector of thoughts + images, lover of everything ordinary + weird, and a lifestyle photographer based in Des Moines, Iowa and beyond.

PORTRAITS • ENGAGEMENTS • WEDDINGS • NEWBORNS • FAMILIES

If there’s a story to be told and something to see, I’ll be there with my camera. Hiding behind said camera and not talking (because extroverted introvert what). Let’s be honest. I became a photographer because I enjoy making every-day-normal-boring things, beautiful. I’m also super curious, into hot gos, and have social anxiety, so photography gave me a “purpose” to connect with people.

Kyaw is pronounced like “Cho” in chocolate. My four-year-old son, Forest, and my four cats help me cherish long solo road trips with loud music & murder podcasts. The backseat of my car is a literal dumpster, I buy myself flowers weekly, and occasionally watch too much Tik Tok. I try to do or experience one new thing every day and it’s getting really difficult to do that here in Iowa, which is why my dream life would be traveling in an airstream.

I’m really into having your session be about you and what makes you YOU. We’ll get that mantle shot for Grandma – you know the one where you’re all smiling at the camera – but I want you to show up as yourself and know I’ll make you look good. I focus on providing a storytelling + documentary approach to all kinds of life, littles, and love with an extra soft-spot for the many stages of motherhood. I’m also an animal person, so yes you can (AND SHOULD) include your pet. Whether we meet up at your home, browse downtown, or enjoy the beauty of nature – I’ll help create a unique experience and a gallery of images customized to you.

Visit the FAQ and check out each experience to learn more about my sessions. Ready to connect?  Head on over here to book a session. You can also email me at chelseaakyaw@gmail.com