Amy Dawnelle M. Photog

Murrieta Maternity, Newborn & Family Photographer

Hey there,

I'm Amy, your friendly neighborhood photographer. Yep, I've been around a long time —shooting professionally since way back in 2005. So, let me tell you about my journey into photography.  Well, it started with a case of 'my baby's the cutest' syndrome. Classic, right? I mean, who doesn't think their little one is the most adorable thing on the planet? Turns out, all parents do. Go figure! Nevertheless, my first baby was born into being my little photo model. Well, they all were, actually.

Before I found my true calling behind the camera, I was knee-deep in managing an orthodontic office. But let's be real, as a mom of three, I needed a bit more wiggle room and a whole lot more creativity in my life. Plus, people tend to give you the side-eye when you're chasing them down for dental payments. So, I swapped out the dental chair for a camera strap and never looked back.


Now, don't let my laid-back vibe fool you—I devoured photography education like it was going out of style. I swear, I consumed so much knowledge I could've opened up my own photography med school. And in 2013, I proudly strutted my stuff across the stage to claim my Master of Photography degree from PPA. Cue the applause!


Oh, and let's not forget about the awards. I've got more trophies and ribbons than I know what to do with! From snagging titles like PPSDC Children’s Photographer of the Year to PPA Photographer of the Year (yeah, I got that one twice), I've been racking up accolades like nobody's business. This is just to say, I know what I’m doing, and I’ve got you!

Nowadays, my kiddos aren't so little anymore—22, 19, and 16 to be exact. Crazy, right? And even though I've focused my lens on capturing the magic of maternity and babies, it still feels a bit surreal to have kids who are practically adults themselves. They are still my babies, though.

When I'm not busy behind the camera, you can probably find me exploring the food scene or, to be honest, cleaning up while my husband cooks (total foodies here) or jamming out to my favorite tunes. Whether it's front row at a live concert, belting it out in my car on the way to a beach session, or dissecting every note with my husband while binge-watching music videos, I'm seriously all about that music life. In my next life, I’ll be a DJ!

Anyway, if you need a photographer who is equal parts professional, creative, and just a tad bit goofy, you know who to call. Let's make some memories together!

-Amy Dawnelle

Photography Awards

IEPPV Children’s Photographer of the Year 2017
IEPPV New Member Photographer of the Year 2016
PPA Photographer of the Year 2010, 2013
PPC Senior Portrait Photographer of the Year 2011
PPSDC Photographer of the Year 2012
PPSDC Children's Photographer of the Year 2010-2012
PPSDC Senior Portrait Photographer of the Year 2011