Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Rohana Olson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Rohana, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?

I’ve always known I wanted to build something meaningful. The idea of owning a business was in me early on—I just didn’t know what shape it would take. But the moment I picked up a camera, something was ignited inside of me. Photography became a way to tell stories, connect with people, and create something lasting.

What gave me the confidence to pursue it professionally was knowing I could build real relationships. I care deeply about serving my couples well—making them feel seen, cared for, and truly themselves. I also believe in collaborating with vendors in a way that lifts everyone up. Those connections, both with clients and creative partners, are what make this work so fulfilling and sustainable.

My grandparents, who were married for 71 years, were a big part of why I do what I do. They had a beautiful love story, but when they passed, there were only a few photos of just the two of them. I hold those images close, but I often wish there were more.

That’s why I approach wedding photography the way I do. I want your images to feel like memories—to take you back to that moment you exchanged vows, danced with your partner, or held your grandmother’s hand. Years from now, I want you to look at your wedding photos and feel every bit of the love that surrounded you.

Rohana, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hi, I’m Rohana Olson—a Minneapolis-based wedding and portrait photographer capturing love stories both locally and wherever my passport leads me. I specialize in timeless, emotive imagery that reflects not just how your day looked, but how it felt.

I’ve always known I wanted to run my own business, but it wasn’t until I picked up a camera that things really clicked. What led me to wedding photography was personal—my grandparents were married for 71 years, and after they passed, we had only a handful of photos of them together. I wished there were more. That experience shaped how I see photography: as a way to preserve meaningful moments before they become memories.

I offer full-service wedding photography using a hybrid approach—capturing your day on both film and digital. Film brings a softness and intentionality that pairs beautifully with the flexibility of digital, allowing me to tell your story in a way that feels rich and honest.

I’m known for creating a calm, supportive experience from start to finish. My approach is centered on building real relationships—making couples feel comfortable, working seamlessly with vendors, and being someone you can trust to document the day with care and attention.

What sets me apart is the connection I build with my clients. Many stay in touch long after their wedding, and the relationships that grow from this work are what I value most. It’s never just about one day—it’s about telling stories with honesty, care, and a deep respect for the people in them.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

A few years ago, I was at what felt like the peak of my career—traveling for incredible weddings, working with dream clients and vendors, and doing what I loved. But behind the scenes, everything was shifting. I became a single parent, and with that came a complete life pivot. I returned to the corporate world for stability while watching my business lose momentum. I was exhausted, unsure, and questioning whether I could keep doing it all.

That season forced me to rebuild—from the ground up. I had to find a new rhythm between motherhood, a 9-to-5, and keeping my creative work alive. There were long nights, moments of burnout, and plenty of doubt. But in that process, I saw the strength of what I had built. Clients showed up with support. Vendors extended grace. And I realized that the relationships I poured into from day one became my lifeline.

I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come—both personally and professionally. My business is stronger, more intentional, and grounded in real connection. That chapter taught me resilience, and it reminded me that community is everything.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective way I’ve grown my clientele has been through genuine relationships. I’ve always focused on finding my people—and loving them well. From day one, my goal has been to serve my couples with care, show up fully, and make sure they feel seen and supported every step of the way.

That kind of experience stays with people. Most of my growth has come through word-of-mouth—not just because of the images I deliver, but because of how people feel throughout the process. When someone feels truly cared for, they naturally share that with the people around them.

Vendor relationships have been just as meaningful. I’ve always prioritized being a team player on wedding days, and over time, that trust and respect has led to amazing opportunities with like-minded creatives. For me, it’s never been about quick wins—it’s about building something real, rooted in connection, consistency, and heart.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rohanaolson.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rohanaolson/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rohanaolsonphotography

Image Credits

Headshot of Rohana Olson – https://www.instagram.com/elizabeth.uccello/