I have been taking photos since I can remember. I have a degree in Graphic Design and I was a preschool teacher and taught art classes as well before having children of my own. It was not until the birth of my children that I became serious about design and photography. I knew from working with kids that they grow up way too fast and I wanted to be able to capture all of my children's amazing moments. Rather than tell friends and family over and over again what the twins were doing I chose to show them by taking pictures everyday. Everyone loved the pictures that I was sharing and people started asking me to take their family pictures. I started taking photography classes to improve my craft and set my mind on becoming an "Environmental Photographer"

I believe that capturing a child or person as they are makes ones character, quirks and personality shine. Allowing a child to "be as they are" brings out the true spirit and beauty that we are all trying to capture. You were not created to blend in and I want to capture the essence of you and yours.

I am an artist first and a photographer second. I am by no means conventional. My pictures are original and special just like every person and child. A session with me involves moving, exploring, laughing, singing, and sometimes dancing. I feel like I am making photographs rather than taking photographs. I hate awkward poses.

I love taking pictures; it allows me to freeze time, share moments, create, and see life as art. Having the experience as a designer is an added bonus to my job. I enjoy creating designs that are fresh and unique just like every event and person.

Besides photography I love my family, traveling, cooking, paddle, hiking, dancing, live music, paddle boarding, riding my bike, ping pong, good wine, great conversation, playing cards, pickled everything, and a nice walk.

I hope that you will look through my galleries and choose to contact me so that you too can have your own Mayabee creation. I look forward to hearing from you!

Xo,
Maya

You can follow me on Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/mayaptuttle/ or Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/mayabeedesignandphotography/?hl=en

Maya is a member of NAPCP, ASMP and PPA.
Maya is a volunteer photographer for the Red Thread Sessions
Maya's Photography can be seen in websites and publications for East Wind Nannies, Fox Chapel Country Day School, The Greater Pittsburgh YMCA, Our Local Dish, and more.