My name is regularly mispronounced, so before I go any further, let's go ahead and set things straight. Lyra is pronounced like "lyr" in "lyrical". As a child, I truly believed that I would change my name as soon as I became an adult. But, thankfully, I changed my mind. 

I was raised on the coast of North Carolina where all of my extended family still resides.  Bismarck, North Dakota was home from 2011-2023, and I am now settling into West Michigan life with my family as we relocated to the area at the end of 2023. I also haven’t lost my southern accent. I am regularly asked, “Where are you from? I take it you aren’t from here?”

I am a documentary storytelling photographer. I combine both light and moment because I believe documentary photography should be beautiful and truthful.

I have a strong passion for finding joy in everyday life. No matter how messy or chaotic your life feels, I can assure you there is beauty in the midst of it all.  I enjoy coffee, laughing, close friendships, great conversations, traveling, camping, kayaking, and exploring new places. 

Photo credit: Lea Black (top) and Bryan Hempstead

A few fun facts about me:

• I am an INFP (Meyer’s Briggs)

• Type B

• Idealist

• Justice Seeker

• Nature Lover

• I do not enjoy being in front of the camera

• I had my nose pierced in Pakistan back in 1999 (fun story!)

• According to Strength-finders, my #1 strength is adaptability. This came in handy when my luggage was lost for a few days in Ethiopia.