A New Chapter: Karli Braaten | Photographer

A New Chapter: Karli Braaten

After 12 years of capturing memories and building connections through my lens, I am thrilled to reintroduce myself and my work under my new brand: Karli Braaten. This marks an exciting evolution in my journey, one that builds on the foundation of artistry and connection I’ve cultivated since the very beginning.

Reflecting on Studio Evergreen

Many of you may remember my previous brand, Studio Evergreen, where I honed my skills in creating timeless, dramatic, and vogue-inspired portraits. Studio Evergreen became a cherished part of my identity as I worked with countless families to document their most treasured milestones. But as life unfolded, I faced challenges that brought new clarity and purpose to my journey. During this period, my family faced additional hardships, including medical issues and my husband being laid off in the last few months, which added financial and emotional challenges to an already difficult time.

In June of 2024, I made the difficult decision to close Studio Evergreen following a life-changing event—my daughter’s traumatic lawn mower accident, which resulted in her losing about 20% of her toes on the right foot as well as a partial amputation of one of them. It was a time of immense uncertainty and heartache as we navigated her recovery, but it also became a season of profound growth and reflection. I stepped away from my work to focus entirely on my family, pouring my energy into ensuring my daughter’s healing and well-being.

Healing and Hope

Today, I am overjoyed to share that my daughter is thriving. She is walking, running, and even shining on the basketball court and in dance class. Her resilience and determination have been nothing short of inspiring, and her recovery has filled our family with hope and gratitude. With her strength as my beacon, I’ve found my own clarity and strength to move forward.

The Rebirth of My Passion

Now that our family has emerged from this chapter with a renewed sense of purpose, I am ready to fully dedicate myself to my passion once more. With the opening of my new studio in Marysville, WA, Karli Braaten represents not just a continuation, but a transformation. This new brand embodies my vision of Elevating Portraiture to Art, combining dramatic artistry with streamlined processes to offer an exceptional client experience.

My focus remains on maternity, newborn, and milestone photography, as well as branding, headshots, and family portraits. These genres allow me to celebrate life’s most precious moments while crafting stunning imagery that families will treasure for generations. With my family's journey inspiring me, I’ve developed a deeper commitment to creating impactful and meaningful portraits that stand the test of time.

Efficiency and Excellence

One of the lessons I’ve embraced during this transformative period is the importance of efficiency and time management. As a mother and artist, I’ve learned how to balance the demands of my personal life with my creative pursuits. This balance has become a cornerstone of my brand, ensuring that my clients receive both exceptional artistry and a seamless, enjoyable experience.

Expanding Beyond Photography

I am not only offering photography services but also building a platform to share knowledge and uplift fellow photographers. Over the past three years, I have dedicated myself to education, visiting numerous states and teaching dozens of students worldwide through online classes. This has been an incredibly fulfilling extension of my work, and I am committed to furthering my brand through photography education.

In 2025, I am off to a strong start as one of 42 instructors for the Milky Way Retreat, an online workshop for photographers. This marks my second year as an instructor, and I am thrilled to share insights on lighting, posing, and editing with students eager to expand their photography skills.

Additionally, I design backdrops in collaboration with Fancy Fabrics, the industry’s leading backdrop company. This creative partnership has deepened my passion for artistry and reinforced my vision for bold, impactful designs. Choosing to brand myself simply as Karli Braaten reflects my aspiration to build a name synonymous with excellence, creativity, and education. Braaten is BOLD, and my goal is to ensure that my name becomes a beacon for photographers striving to elevate their craft.

Looking Ahead

Karli Braaten as a brand is more than a business; it is a reflection of resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling. I am beyond grateful for the support of my community, clients, and family who have stood by me through every twist and turn of this journey. Together, we’ve turned challenges into triumphs, and I am honored to carry that spirit into this new chapter. And to my clients who have been EXTREMELY patient with me as I navigated a very dark time in my life, you have my gratitude unending that you know I have always got you. 

To all the families and individuals looking to capture life’s most meaningful moments, I invite you to join me in this new season. My studio doors are open, and I am ready to create something extraordinary with you. Explore my work and book your session today at www.karlibraaten.com.

Here’s to new beginnings and timeless memories.

xo- Karli