Story & Lesson Highlights with Deja Kreutzberg of Palm Springs

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Deja Kreutzberg. Check out our conversation below.

Deja, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
Many people assume photography should be inexpensive simply because digital cameras exist. But portrait photography is about so much more than pressing a button.

Behind every session is a small business, often run by a single person, wearing the roles of photographer, editor, marketer, accountant, client coordinator, website designer, and creative director. Professional gear alone is a significant investment, often exceeding $10,000, and that’s just the beginning.

Add to that ongoing education, workshops, location scouting, software, insurance, and the time spent creating a seamless, stress-free experience from booking to final delivery. Every detail is intentional, so clients can feel confident, cared for, and fully present during their session.

You’re not just paying for photos; you’re investing in expertise, artistry, and an experience designed to preserve meaningful moments beautifully and thoughtfully.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Deja Kreutzberg, and I’m the owner and photographer behind Deja’s View Photography, based in Palm Springs, California. I specialize in family portrait photography. From maternity and newborns to extended family sessions and everything in between.

My work is light, bright, and timeless, blending gentle guidance with organic, in-between moments. While I absolutely capture classic, posed images (because everyone wants those), what truly lights me up is allowing space for families to be themselves. I focus on freezing time and documenting the season of life my clients are . Silly laughter, quiet connection, dancing, shyness, even tears. Those moments are real, meaningful, and worthy of being remembered.

A session with me is intentionally calm and stress-free. I prepare you every step of the way, gently guide when needed, and encourage you to stay present with the people you love. The result is a collection of heirloom images that don’t just look beautiful, but take you right back to how that season of your life felt every time you revisit them.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Communication.

Communication is what builds strong bonds because people who are informed feel safe, taken care of, and valued. When expectations, thoughts, and intentions are clearly shared, trust naturally grows.

Breakdowns in relationships tend to happen when communication is missing, unclear, or not thoughtful. That’s when people are left guessing, filling in the gaps on their own, and often getting it wrong.

We’ve all experienced both sides of this. And when you meet someone who communicates well, everything feels easier and more effortless—because there’s no guessing, no confusion, just clarity and connection.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You don’t have to be perfect, and you don’t have to do everything alone.

If I could tell my younger self anything, it would be this: being overly independent and chasing perfection isn’t a badge of honor. Now at 43, with a little more calm and perspective, I can see that it cost me time, energy, and connection.

It’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to be vulnerable. And it’s more than okay to delegate. Strength doesn’t come from doing it all, it comes from knowing when you don’t have to.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is the real me, sometimes to my own detriment. I spent 20 years as an actor, training myself to listen, react, and be vulnerable. That kind of wiring doesn’t turn off. I struggle to lie, to hide how I feel, or to pretend I’m enjoying something when I’m not and honestly, I’m done trying.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that authenticity isn’t always comfortable. Some people won’t like you. Some will misunderstand you. And some will wish you were quieter, softer, or easier to digest. But there is real power in no longer performing, no longer shrinking, and no longer apologizing for being honest.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I only had 10 years left, I wouldn’t put off vacations or family time. As you get older, it’s all about saving for retirement and making sure your kids have a great life, and somehow that makes you say no to a lot of things you actually want to do.

I’d spend more time with my family and travel with them as much as possible. I’d show my son the world and let life feel big and exciting through his eyes.

I’d keep doing what I love, documenting my life and other people’s, because it’s the everyday moments that really matter. I’ve traveled a lot, but never abroad, and I wouldn’t put that off anymore.

I’d eat my way through other countries, dance whenever I could, and say yes to experiences even if they scared me. Instead of always planning for the future, I’d just live, and really enjoy the present.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dejasviewphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dejasviewphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seedejasview
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/dejas-view-photography-rancho-mirage-2?osq=Deja%E2%80%99s+View+Photography

Image Credits
All photos are mine 🙂