Main Street News

In honor of Photographer Appreciation Month in October, we’re highlighting some of our local photographers. Get to know more about Angela Christian of Carried Away Photography, based in the Hudson Valley, below! 

Your name and type of camera you use / prefer?

I’m Angela Christian, and you won’t catch me without my Canon R6 MKII and my Canon 35mm. It’s my go-to because it lets me dive right in, grab those unguarded moments, and make them feel magical!

What type of photography do you most often do or prefer (subject matter)?

I specialize in family photography, especially capturing unposed moments that show real connection—kids laughing, parents hugging, or siblings just being themselves. Seasonal mini sessions, like my Christmas cookie sets, are also a big passion because they combine storytelling, emotion, and fun.

How did you get into photography?

I’ve always loved how photos let you hold onto memories. Once I had kids, I realized how fast time flies, and I wanted to preserve not just the milestones but the little moments in between. That naturally extended to photographing other families and eventually became Carried Away Photography.

What’s your most favorite photo you’ve ever taken and why?

One that’s really special to me is a photo I took of myself after having my last baby. I set up a tripod in my hospital room and captured myself sitting in the chair, nursing my son, with the light from the window falling across the scene. I added a little grain and gentle masking in edits to give it a nostalgic feel. What makes it my favorite isn’t just the composition – it’s the real moment of connection, the exhaustion, the love, and the rawness of early motherhood all wrapped into a single frame.

 What inspires you and your photography?

I’m inspired by the moments that tell the real story of a family – the way a child reaches for their parent’s hand, or how laughter spills out when everyone lets their guard down. I don’t want my photos to feel posed; I want them to feel like memories you can hold in your hands. My goal is for someone to look back years from now and not just see what it looked like, but remember exactly what it felt like.

What is your background – did you study photography or are you self-taught?

I’m self-taught! I’ve spent countless hours learning through practice, trial and error, online resources, and real family sessions. Being self-taught has allowed me to develop my own style.  I still feel like I’m learning something new with every session, which keeps it fun.

How has technology impacted your artistry and photos? 

Technology has made it easier to capture and refine moments, but for me, it’s always about enhancing – not changing – the story. Editing allows me to bring out the light, color, and emotion exactly how I felt it in the moment, making the final images feel alive.

Where do you photograph? What are your most common locations? Do you have a favorite place to photograph either as a subject matter or as a background?

I photograph mostly in northern Dutchess County, with favorites like Burger Hill and Buttercup Farm Audubon Sanctuary—but it’s not just about the location.  My goal is to find the light and spaces where those real beautiful interactions can shine, no matter the backdrop.

How do you market yourself – do you have a website or social media that you use to promote your photography?

I primarily share my work on Instagram and Facebook, where I can show sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes. I also have a website where clients can learn more about my work and book sessions directly.

 How do people find you and your photos – do you sell your photos or are you more “to hire” / commission-based?

Most people find me through social media or word-of-mouth. I work primarily “for hire,” photographing families and delivering their edited galleries. While I don’t sell prints as a standalone product, I offer a variety of print packages for each session.

Have you (your photos) won any awards?

Nothing official… but recently a six-year-old declared our photoshoot the most fun part of her vacation. It’s always rewarding to make a special moment for a family!

To learn more about Angela Christian and Carried Away Photography, visit her website here, follow her on Instagram @carried.away.photography.hv, and on Facebook.