Connect
To Top

Conversations with Caroline Stiers

Today we’d like to introduce you to Caroline Stiers.

Hi Caroline, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started out as a studio manager for Maer Studio. Over time, I started third shooting, then second shooting, and eventually associate shooting for her—and I completely fell in love with wedding photography. The first time I held a camera, it was like ohhh okay, this is it. I didn’t expect it, but it felt so natural—like I had accidentally stumbled into my dream job.

That realization lit a fire, and in 2012 I officially launched my own business. I was so excited I couldn’t sleep (like, actually lying in bed at 2am thinking about lens choices and editing styles). What started as a gut feeling turned into the most rewarding, joy-filled career. More than a decade later, I still feel so lucky that this is what I get to do.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
A few years into building my business, I also became a mom. Balancing motherhood with a very full-time job—one that includes travel, late nights, editing marathons, and emotionally investing in every couple I work with—has been one of the biggest challenges of my life. There were seasons where I felt like I was barely keeping up, trying to be everything to everyone, running on caffeine and adrenaline. But it’s also given me such a deep appreciation for time, for connection, and for the fleeting beauty of the in-between moments.

Running this business while raising my kids has taught me resilience, boundaries, and the importance of slowing down when it matters most. I’m incredibly proud of the work I’ve built, but even more grateful for the people who’ve trusted me with their stories along the way.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a wedding photographer who specializes in capturing love stories in a way that feels honest, romantic, and timeless. My work is known for blending editorial elegance with candid, emotional storytelling—creating images that feel just as good as they look. I focus on real connection over perfection, and I want my couples to look back at their photos decades from now and feel everything all over again.

I’ve been documenting weddings for over a decade, and I’ve had the honor of photographing couples all over the world—from weddings in Europe to big celebrations in my hometown of Columbus, Ohio. I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built along the way. This isn’t just a job to me—I genuinely care about my couples, their families, and the experience they have from start to finish.

What sets me apart is the way I approach each wedding with equal parts heart and strategy. I’m deeply invested in the moments that matter most, but I’m also a calming, prepared presence who can read a room and pivot when needed. I know when to step in and give direction, and when to step back and let the magic unfold naturally. I’ve been told I make people feel safe, seen, and celebrated—and that’s the biggest compliment I could ask for.

How do you define success?
To me, success isn’t about a certain number of bookings or how many stamps are in my passport—though I’ll always love both. It’s about creating work I’m proud of while living a life that feels meaningful. If I can pour my heart into documenting someone’s love story and be home in time to tuck my kids into bed, that’s success.

It’s knowing that my clients felt truly cared for, that their photos feel like them, and that I was present—for my work, my family, and myself. Success is balance, connection, and impact… not perfection.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: VoyageOhio is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories