We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Montgomery and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
To be honest, starting my business wasn’t a planned decision—family photography actually found me! I began by casually snapping and posting candid photos of my three children, and before I knew it, others were asking me to capture their families in the same natural style. I remember feeling incredibly nervous during my first family session. My kids, accustomed to the camera always being around, simply went about their day, oblivious to it.

The real challenge for me was figuring out how to get a new family, one I’d never met before, to interact naturally and forget about the camera. Fast forward ten years and countless sessions, I’ve honed techniques that encourage clients to reveal their genuine connections, rather than just striking posed smiles. It’s truly rewarding when clients tell me, “I didn’t realize you captured so many moments because it felt like we were just hanging out and having fun the whole time!”

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
In a deeply personal way, my photography helps me experience my family, as well as the world around me. Even as a child, I remember mourning the passing of time, and that ache grew even more prominent when I became a mother. When I discovered photography, it was as if the heavens opened up. I realized that a photograph, taken with a keen eye for light, allowed me to stay in a meaningful moment long after it passed. A photograph can literally defeat times insatiable appetite, and hold memories of children even as they grow into adults. That is the root of my WHY and the driving force behind my business. It’s such an honor to freeze moments in history for my clients and future generations of their families. Our lives are so very short and having authentic moments captured forever is extraordinarily important and something I do not take lightly. My story is one of growth, passion, and the pursuit of capturing life’s most meaningful moments through a lens of authenticity and love.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For a perfect week, I’d craft an itinerary that seamlessly blends relaxation with adventure, offering a delightful mix of beach time, outdoor activities, and exceptional dining—plus plenty of opportunities for capturing memorable photos. Since I live in Malibu Canyon, we’d focus on the local Malibu and Calabasas areas.

Our mornings would begin at either Malibu Country Mart or The Commons at Calabasas for a great cup of coffee. We’d then take leisurely walks to savor the fresh, salty air and breathtaking ocean views. Some of my favorite spots for these strolls include Malibu Pier, Point Dume Beach, Malibu Creek State Park (which offers stunning views despite lacking the salty air), Surfrider Beach, El Matador Beach, Zuma Beach, and Leo Carrillo State Park.

In the afternoons, we’d embark on new adventures beyond the immediate area. I love visiting the Griffith Observatory for its panoramic city views, Venice Beach for its lively boardwalk, and LACMA to marvel at the Urban Light installation. We’d also explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame, The Grove for shopping and dining, the La Brea Tar Pits (a hit with my kids), and the Santa Monica Pier for its fun boardwalk and rides.

Evenings would be dedicated to enjoying local culinary gems. Some of my top picks include Nobu Malibu, Geoffrey’s, Taverna Tony, Sable Kitchen & Bar, The Malibu Beach Inn, King’s Fish House in Calabasas, and The Rustic Canyon. There are so many wonderful dining options that each night promises a new and delightful experience!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give heartfelt recognition to my three children and my husband, who have been the true catalysts behind my success as a photographer. While I have dedicated myself to mastering the craft, it is their presence as subjects that has made all the difference. Their genuine, open, and emotive nature in front of the camera has profoundly influenced my approach to capturing images. Their willingness to be photographed has been invaluable in teaching me how to infuse my work with authentic feeling and depth. When working with clients, I often draw upon the natural expressions and interactions I’ve observed in my family to guide my direction, ensuring that the images I create resonate with others just as deeply.

Website: https://ericamontgomeryphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericamontgomeryphotography/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-montgomery-b31870103/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EriMontgomery

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricaMontgomeryPhotography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.