We were lucky to catch up with Angelina Cotham recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Angelina thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Looking back at internships and apprenticeships can be interesting, because there is so much variety in people’s experiences – and often those experiences inform our own leadership style. Do you have an interesting story from that stage of your career that you can share with us?

The Moment Everything Changed
I owe so much of who I am as a photographer to my aunt Twylah. She didn’t just teach me how to use a camera — she taught me how to see. How to look for light, for emotion, for connection. But more than anything, she believed in me before I ever knew how to believe in myself.

I remember the day so clearly. We were at a wedding, and everything was buzzing with that familiar energy — laughter, nerves, a timeline that was already slipping. I was quietly tagging along as her second shooter, like I always did. Then, out of nowhere, she turned to me and said, “Why don’t you go ahead and take the groomsmen? You’ve got this.”

My heart stopped. I was terrified. These were the official portraits — the real thing. I wanted to say, “Are you sure?” or “What if I mess it up?” But I looked at her, and she wasn’t worried at all. She gave me this steady, calm smile, like she already knew how it would go. Like she knew I was ready.

And so I went. My hands were shaking a little at first, but I found my footing. I gave directions. I made them laugh. I took the lead, and somewhere in those few minutes, something shifted in me. I stopped feeling like an assistant with a camera and started feeling like a photographer.

That moment changed everything. Not because the shots were perfect (though I still love them), but because it was the first time I truly felt like I belonged in this role. Like maybe this wasn’t just something I was learning — maybe it was something I was meant to do.

Twylah gave me that. She gave me space, trust, and just enough push to help me see what she already saw in me.

And I’ve never forgotten that.

Angelina, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hi, I’m Angelina — the Heart Behind B.Pretty Photography
I’m a wedding and family photographer, and I believe in capturing the real, the raw, and the beautifully imperfect moments that tell your story.

Whether it’s your wedding day or a quiet afternoon spent chasing little feet in the backyard, my job is to preserve those fleeting moments you never want to forget — the ones that feel like home. I approach every shoot with warmth, intention, and deep care for the people in front of my lens.

Where It All Began
I got my start by second-shooting weddings alongside my aunt, Twylah — an incredible photographer and the woman who taught me everything I know. From day one, she poured her heart into teaching me the craft, but more importantly, she believed in me. There was one wedding in particular where she handed me the groomsmen portraits — told me, “You’ve got this.” I was terrified… but she wasn’t. She knew I was ready, and because of her confidence in me, I stepped into that moment and never looked back.

That moment changed everything. I walked away not just with a few good shots, but with a new sense of confidence that told me: I can really do this.

What I Do
Through B.Pretty Photography, I offer:

Wedding Photography: From “I do” to your last dance, I capture all the genuine, joy-filled, tear-streaked moments in a style that’s warm, natural, and full of heart.

Family Sessions: Whether it’s a new baby, a birthday milestone, or just this season of life, I document families in all their wild, beautiful, everyday glory.

Couples & Engagements: Romantic, playful, and real — these sessions are about your unique connection.

No stiff posing, no fake smiles — just storytelling through imagery that feels honest, joyful, and deeply you.

What Sets B.Pretty Photography Apart
Connection Over Perfection: I focus on building trust with my clients so they can truly be themselves in front of the camera. The magic happens in the real moments, not the staged ones.

A Calm, Caring Presence: Weddings and family shoots can be full of emotions and chaos. I bring a calming energy, guiding when needed, and stepping back when it’s time to simply let life unfold.

A Legacy of Love: Because I was mentored with such heart and care, I carry that spirit into my work. Every client is more than a booking — you’re part of the story I’m honored to tell.

What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m proud of the trust families and couples place in me — of the laughter we share during shoots, the quiet moments I get to witness, and the tears my clients shed when they see their galleries for the first time. That’s when I know I’ve done my job.

If You’re Here…
…you’re probably someone who values memories. Someone who wants to hold on to not just how things looked, but how they felt. If that sounds like you, I’d love to connect. Whether you’re walking down the aisle or chasing toddlers through a field, I’m here to tell your story — beautifully and honestly.

Let’s make something real together.

Warmly,
Angelina
Owner & Photographer, B.Pretty Photography

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Without a doubt, it’s knowing that I’m preserving memories that will outlive the moment.

As a wedding and family photographer, I get to freeze time for people, capturing not just how they looked, but how they felt on one of the most meaningful days of their lives. Whether it’s a tearful first look, a toddler’s giggle, or a quiet moment between generations, I know these photos become part of a family’s legacy.

What makes it even more rewarding is hearing from clients after they’ve seen their gallery — the tears, the joy, the messages that say, “You captured us perfectly,” or “We’ll treasure these forever.” That’s when I know I’ve done something more than take a picture — I’ve given someone a way to relive the most important parts of their story.

That, to me, is everything.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Hands down: word of mouth and personal connection.

While social media and online presence are important, the most powerful growth has come from clients who had a great experience and shared it — with their friends, their families, or even their wedding vendors. When people feel seen, cared for, and genuinely themselves in front of the camera, they remember that. And they tell others.

I also put a big emphasis on creating a comfortable, trust-based experience. Whether it’s a wedding day or a wild family shoot with toddlers, I want every client to feel like they’re in good hands. That comfort turns into natural, emotional photos — and that’s what people want to share.

In short: take care of people, and they’ll take care of your business.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bprettyphotography.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: @b.pretty_photography
• Facebook: B.Pretty Photography

Image Credits

Photo credits to B.Pretty Photography