I'm Renae, a Fremont photographer with a soft spot for newborns, growing families, and life's little milestones. Warm, natural sessions at my cozy studio or on-location across the Bay Area and Central Valley.
My journey into photography began in 2011, when I moved from California to North Carolina at just 19 years old. Being so far from my family made me realize how quickly life changes, and how much a single photograph can mean when the people you love aren't right around the corner. I picked up a camera because I wanted to hold onto the moments that mattered.
A few years later, I became a mom to my oldest son, Angelo, and motherhood gave photography an entirely new meaning. Suddenly every milestone, every laugh, every little expression felt worth remembering. My camera became a way to preserve the moments I knew I'd never get back.
Life continued to shape me in ways I never expected. My husband and I built our beautifully blended family, and in 2021 we experienced the unimaginable loss of our daughter, Marriah. Losing her forever changed my heart and the way I see time. It reminded me that photographs aren't just beautiful images. They become part of our story, and sometimes they're all we have left to hold onto.
As I learned to navigate grief, I found my way back to the spiritual gifts I had set aside over the years. I reconnected with intuitive readings and Reiki energy healing, allowing me to help others find clarity, peace, and healing while continuing my own journey. Around that same time, I began hand-pouring candles with intention. Creating became my way of staying grounded, honoring my daughter, and remaining true to who I am.
Today, Moments by Renae is more than a business. It's a reflection of my story and everything I've learned along the way. Through photography, candles, and intuitive readings, I get to give others that same gift: a way to hold onto the people and moments they love, long after the day is done.
With love,
Renae
Newborns and growing families, maternity, milestones, weddings, and everything in between. Tap any photo to see it full-size.
Every session is relaxed and unhurried, shaped around you. Tap any session below for full details and pricing.
By appointment · Studio or on-location · Fremont, Bay Area & Central Valley · Delivered as digital galleries
Family Sessions
Maternity
First Hours
First Birthdays
Celebrate their first year with a sweet smash.
What's Included
Add-Ons
Cap & Gown
Seasonal & Limited
A few times a year I open a limited round of seasonal minis, themed for spring, summer, fall, or the holidays. They're short, sweet, and spots go quickly.
Want first dibs on the next round? Send me a note and I'll let you know the moment dates open up.
Your Whole Day
From getting ready to the last dance, I photograph the whole day in a warm, natural, unhurried way: the vows, the details you planned for months, and all the little in-between moments.
Every wedding is quoted individually. Tell me your date, venue, and the hours you're hoping to cover and I'll put together a custom quote.
Showers & Parties
Baby showers, birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, and everything in between. I stay out of the way and capture the day as it actually happens.
Events are quoted individually. Send me the date, location, and how long you'd like covered and I'll get you a custom quote.
For Your Business
When I'm not behind the camera, I hand-pour small-batch candles as a way to slow down and make something meant to last. Each one is poured with intention and a little bit of heart, for your own quiet moments or as a gift for someone you love.
I also offer Reiki energy healing and intuitive tarot readings — quiet, grounding sessions to help you slow down, reconnect, and carry a little more calm into your everyday.
A few kind words from the families, clients, and candle-lovers I've had the joy of working with.
"My 6-month-old is usually very shy with strangers, but was so relaxed and happy during our session. Renae was incredibly gentle and captured the most amazing shots. She has a natural motherly touch that makes all the difference. I highly recommend her for any parent looking for beautiful photos and a stress-free experience!"
"Absolutely loved my maternity pics! I was 34 weeks and didn't feel like I had a big enough baby bump, but she made it work! Thanks love."
"This candle is everything I want in a cozy home scent. The fragrance is rich and calming, the burn is clean and even, and the throw is amazing without being too strong. You can really tell it's high quality. Highly recommend — would buy again! You won't be disappointed."
"Renae is a masterful photographer who consistently delivers stunning results, even on tight deadlines, capturing life's precious moments with precision and beauty. I am grateful to have Moments by Renae capture mine."
"I can honestly say that her tarot readings have changed my life. She has helped guide me through some of the hardest moments I've ever faced, offering clarity, comfort, and direction when I felt completely lost."
"Renae did pictures for my 2-month-old baby girl and she nailed them! She worked with me on the theme and truly captured her personality and the love. Very professional and quick turnaround. I will use her again in a heartbeat. Highly recommend!"
"Had an amazing time with Renae! So easy going, professional, fun, and kept it light, which made me feel very comfortable. I liked going back and forth thinking of new ideas. Thanks again Renae! Til' next time!"
"I love Renae's candles! I ordered a few for the house and the office. They are absolutely beautiful and smell so good. I love the little details, the different colors and scents. Each one is unique, and they make great gifts too!"
"We had an amazing experience with Renae. She traveled all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge for us and worked with so much patience. We booked her last minute and she still accommodated all of our needs."
"Renae is amazing! We booked our photo shoot with her and she chose a beautiful location for my daughters. She has a great personality which makes for great smiles out of the children."
"From candles, to tarot, to photography — never disappointed. Highly recommend."
"She did amazing photos of my baby and was able to work with me when I had some complications. Very friendly, quick, and creative. The photos came out amazing!"
"Amazing, purely amazing. Not just talented — I would highly recommend."
"Friendly, professional, on time, and the customer service is awesome. Beautiful photos!"
"Loved the photos she took of my kids, and I love how patient she is with them. I've had two sessions with her — one a few years back and again this past Christmas. I definitely have favorite poses from both sessions."
Follow along for a peek behind the lens, recent sessions, handmade candles, and the little everyday moments in between.
@moments.by.renae
Follow along
Tell me what you're dreaming up and I'll text you right back with a date. No pressure, no rush, just a warm little chat about your moment.
Little guides and forms to make your session smooth, from first hello to final gallery.
