We recently connected with Mioara Dragan and have shared our conversation below.

Mioara , appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

As a wedding photographer for the past 15 years, my mission has always been to document love with intention and connection. I want the photos to reflect how their day actually felt—so that decades from now, my couples can look back and remember this season of their lives, instead of what was trendy on social media at the time.

I want my couples to feel seen, understood, and appreciated for exactly who they are. I think that stems from a deep yearning I had when I was younger. I always felt a little different—quirky, creative, misunderstood. But as I got older, I realized that was my magic. There was never anything wrong with me. And now, I get to create space where other people get to feel that kind of freedom, too.

I never want my couples to feel like they’re “doing their wedding wrong.” It’s their day, they get to do whatever they want. And I’m there to celebrate and capture that.

My posing style is very organic. I work with people’s natural movements and guide them gently toward what I see as their most incredible, authentic selves. I truly believe one of my gifts is seeing them in a way they don’t always see themselves. I know that’s true because I hear things like, “I can’t believe that’s me!” all the time, and that’s when I know I’ve truly done my job.

Mioara , 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?

My name is Mioara (but most people call me Mia) and I’ve been serving couples through my company, Mioara Dragan Photography for over 15 years. I am a wedding and elopement photographer with a deep love for emotional storytelling and intentional celebration. I’m based in beautiful Central Oregon, but I also work throughout Michigan (where my career began) and travel worldwide for couples who connect with my work.

I first fell in love with photography in my teens. What started as a way to document my own memories evolved into a passion for capturing the kinds of moments that matter most—the fleeting in-betweens, the stolen glances, the tears people try to hide, the laughter they can’t hold in. I realized early on that my camera was more than a tool—it was a bridge between people and their truest selves.

Over the years, I’ve photographed hundreds of weddings, from intimate national park elopements to 1000+ guest celebrations in grand ballrooms. But no matter the size, what matters to me is this: that it *feels like you*. Your wedding shouldn’t be a performance. It should be a reflection of your story, your values, your connection. That’s the kind of love I capture.

I provide full-service wedding and elopement photography, and I’m known for creating a calm, grounded presence on what can often feel like a chaotic day. I guide couples gently through portraits, but my favorite images are almost always the ones that weren’t posed. I’m there to help you feel comfortable and supported so that you can be fully present—and actually *enjoy* your day.

One thing that sets me apart is my attention to energy and environment. I care about how things *feel*, not just how they look. I notice when someone’s nervous or needs space. I try to adjust quietly, guide when needed, and hold space for real emotion to unfold. I also deeply value sustainability and encourage eco-conscious alternatives wherever possible—because celebrating love doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense.

I’m most proud of the trust I’ve built with my couples. When someone tells me, “You made me feel beautiful,” or “I forgot the camera was even there,” I know I’ve achieved what I was going for. That’s what I live for—not just the final images, but the experience of making someone feel seen, safe, and celebrated.

For potential clients, here’s what I want you to know:
You don’t need to fit into a mold to have beautiful photos. You don’t need to do things the “right” way to be worthy of documentation. You just need to be you. I’ll handle the rest.

Whether you’re planning a big celebration with all your favorite people or sneaking away for a quiet ceremony in the woods, I’d be honored to capture it in a way that feels true to you.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Creating meaningful art and documenting memories that last a lifetime. When I first decided to become a photographer I was really inspired by fashion magazines. I idolized Mario Testino for his ability to put his subjects at ease and really capture their essence. And I went along that route for a little while. But knowing that a magazine issue is long forgotten about after it comes out, that path kind of lost its spark for me. So now I like to infuse my wedding photography with the editorial flair that I loved about fashion photography. Only now, it’s much more meaningful and people get to enjoy what I’ve created for a lot longer!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

2020 was a tough year for all of us. About half of my weddings either canceled or drastically downsized, and like many people in the wedding industry, I was forced to pause and re-evaluate everything. What I realized was that intimate weddings were becoming more common, and more meaningful. I had always dreamed of moving out west so in 2021, I sold my home, packed up my life, and relocated to Central Oregon.

I didn’t know much about the local market—I just kind of dove in. I started an entirely new brand focused exclusively on elopements because I wanted to create a safe space for couples who wanted a “just us” experience. And it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Now, I live just down the road from Crater Lake National Park and get to photograph engagements and elopements in some of the most inspiring places. Being local means I’ve had time to explore and discover hidden gems—spots that aren’t on the typical tourist radar. These days, I get to serve both worlds: big, traditional weddings for couples who feel aligned with that, and smaller, nature-centered celebrations for those who want something quieter and more personalized.

Fun fact: Back when I lived in Michigan, I painted a mountain mural on my bedroom wall years before I had any idea I’d end up in Oregon. Now, every time I drive out of my neighborhood, I see the real thing. It’s wild how life unfolds.

Imagine Elopements www.imagineelopements.com

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mioaradragan.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/mioaradraganphoto
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/mioaradraganphotography