About

Little kids opened my eyes to how quickly life changes. Photos of my family are everything to me. As a mom of five, I know how easy it is to spend every day documenting everyone else while rarely stepping into the frame. I photograph families so parents can be part of their most cherished photographs.

This exact version of your family will never exist again. Before long, the toddler who insisted on being carried will run ahead. The kid who hid behind your legs will grin at the camera. There may be another baby, another home, another chapter. These ordinary seasons become extraordinary with time, and it’s my mission to help you hold onto them through photographs.

My family photography is shaped by a background in graphic design, photographing weddings with my husband for 15+ years, and raising five energetic boys of my own. I love photographs that feel artful and nostalgic, with thoughtful composition and real connection. Kids don’t need to sit still unless that’s who they are. I capture families the way I’d want mine captured—a good photo of everyone mostly looking at the camera, and a whole lot of us interacting and having fun.

In my free time, you might find me wandering estate sales, camping with my family, working in my garden, scheming home improvements for my DIY husband, hunting down good coffee and pastries, planning a party, or trying to keep up with my boys on bikes and scooters. 

Based in Gig Harbor, Washington, serving the Seattle–Tacoma area, and happy to travel.

I’d love to hear about your dream family photos!

Email: juliamanchik@gmail.com
Instagram: @juliamanchik
Text: 206-651-1614