Conversations with Rachael Venema

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachael Venema.

Hi Rachael, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey as a photographer began with a deep desire to preserve the moments that matter most: the quiet glances, the laughter, the stories that make us who we are. Over the years, my camera became more than a tool for capturing images; it became a way to help people see themselves differently.

I started out photographing families, newborns, and high school seniors, and as I grew both personally and professionally, I realized that what I loved most was connection. Understanding someone’s story and translating it into something tangible. That’s how the RAW Portrait Session was born. An experience designed to strip away perfection and capture the raw, unfiltered beauty of who we truly are.

My work has now evolved to include storytelling portraits and legacy sessions that combine imagery and video to preserve not just what someone looks like, but who they are. I split my time between Iowa and California, photographing clients who have become like family over the years.

Through it all, one truth has remained constant: we are all craving to be seen, known, and loved for who we really are. My mission is to create art that reminds people of that every single time they see their portrait.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road, but I’ve learned that the most meaningful journeys rarely are.

As a business owner, wife, and mom, there have been seasons of exhaustion, uncertainty, and starting over more times than I ever expected. My family and I have relocated seven times, which meant rebuilding my photography business from the ground up in new communities. Each move came with challenges: leaving behind loyal clients, trusted vendors, and the comfort of a strong network, but it also became an opportunity to grow, evolve, and trust that God had a bigger plan.

There were times I questioned whether I should keep going, especially when balancing business and motherhood felt impossible. But every time I picked up my camera, I was reminded why I do this: to create connection, to tell stories, and to show women (and myself) that beauty and strength can be found even in the hard seasons.

Those challenges shaped the heart of my work. They taught me resilience, faith, and the power of starting again. Not from scratch, but from experience.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a fine art portrait photographer based in Iowa and California, specializing in creating meaningful, story-driven imagery that captures people as they truly are. My work goes far beyond taking “pretty pictures.” I help clients see themselves through a lens of truth, grace, and beauty, often in ways they’ve never seen before.

What I’m really known for is the way I connect with my clients. I take time to get to know them: to listen, to understand their story, and to care for them personally. Whether it’s a family portrait, a high school senior session, or a RAW Portrait, my goal is always the same: to help them see and love themselves the way the people who cherish them do.

I have thoroughly enjoyed hearing my clients’ stories and being able to capture them so their story can live on. I also focus on creating printed fine art, so they have tangible reminders of their worth, their journey, and the love they have for their family. Something they can see and feel every single day.

What sets me apart is the intentionality behind every session. It’s not just about creating beautiful images; it’s about creating an experience that reminds people of who they are and what matters most. I’m most proud of the moments when clients see their portraits and say, “That’s me! That’s who I really am.” Those are the moments that make every part of this work worth it.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory was visiting my grandparents’ farm in Michigan. From helping them with chores on the farm to going to the farmers market and learning how to sell, I loved every part of it — even if I didn’t realize how special it was at the time. I remember tasting different fruits and baked goods at the market, and my grandpa always treating me to a butterscotch milkshake while we manned the corner farm stand together. He taught me how to pick a ripe watermelon and how to take pride in working hard and providing excellent customer service.

Those days taught me the value of hard work, community, and connection. I even remember walking down the road to a neighbor’s small dairy farm and getting to feed a baby calf with a giant bottle, then watching all the cows file in to be milked. My grandparents didn’t have a lot financially, but they loved what they did and took pride in it. They also taught me about faith — how to trust that God would always provide, even when times were hard. Somehow, there was always enough. And when it wasn’t, they leaned on their church family, knowing God would make a way.

I’ll never forget the freedom of roaming the farm, swimming in the pond, and fishing in the creeks. Life was simple, yet fulfilling. Looking back now, I realize how much those experiences shaped who I am — learning to appreciate simple moments, meaningful work, faith in God’s provision, and the beauty in everyday life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rachaelvenema.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachaelvenemaphotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachaelvphotography1
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-venema-cpp-0a931433/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachaelvenemaphotography202

Image Credits
Rachael’s headshot image. Photo Credit: Ty Pentecost
Portrait Images by Rachael Venema Photography
www.RachaelVenema.com