Life of A Photographer.
“Photography teaches you to look. To appreciate all kinds of things.”
— Saul Leiter
Recent Adventures
Motherhood is one of the most powerful ways God helps us grow, both spiritually and emotionally.
It’s more than just being tired or busy—it’s the way God uses everyday life to shape who we are. In the loud, messy, and ordinary moments, He invites us to grow more like Jesus.
Being a mom means putting others first, even when it’s hard. It means loving your kids when you're exhausted, showing kindness when you're frustrated, and serving when no one notices. Through this, we begin to understand the heart of Jesus—who gave everything for others.
Jesus gave His life out of love. As mothers, we reflect that same love in small ways every day—when we hold a crying child, do the dishes again, or pray over our kids while they sleep. These moments may feel small, but they matter deeply to God.
Sometimes motherhood shows us how weak we feel, but those are the very places where God steps in. When we feel like we can’t do it, He reminds us that His strength is enough. He gives peace in the middle of the mess, and wisdom when we feel lost.
Motherhood isn’t just about raising kids—it’s also about how God is changing us in the process. He’s teaching us to trust Him, to grow in patience, and to lean on His grace.
We see signs of God’s love all around us—in a child’s laughter, their endless questions, and even their stubbornness. These moments teach us about God’s love for us. And the more we lean on Him, the more we become who He’s shaping us to be—not because we’re perfect, but because He is.
Today, the world often sees kids as a burden or something that gets in the way. But God sees children as a gift. When we feel that pressure from culture, we can stop and ask God how He sees us. Psalm 139 reminds us that we were wonderfully made in the womb. He gave our lives value before we were even born—and He gives that same value to every child. His mercy is new every day and gives us strength to keep loving and leading.
And through all of this refining, God reminds me—He was there in my own childhood, even when I didn’t see it. He was there in the chaos, in the confusion, and even in the pain. And now, as I care for my children, He is still healing parts of me I didn’t know needed healing.
When I lean on Him, I’m not just surviving motherhood—I’m stepping into something sacred. I’m breaking generational curses. I’m standing in the gap, asking God to do what only He can do. There’s a spiritual battle happening beneath the surface—behind the tantrums, the anxiety, the exhaustion. But every whispered prayer, every intentional choice to show up and love like Jesus, every breath of surrender—it all pushes back the dark. It all matters.
Because this isn’t just about today. It’s about the legacy we leave. It’s about our children’s freedom. And I believe God uses our ordinary obedience to do extraordinary kingdom work.
To the mama who feels tired, unnoticed, or unsure if any of it matters: it does.
This work is holy.
And He’s in it all—even the parts no one else sees. Especially those.
The Refining Beauty Of Motherhood
Dandelions blooming in the cracks of life’s sidewalks
Hey there! Wow, time really flies—it's been about three years since my last update, but who's really keeping track, right? Since we welcomed our little bundle of joy, Tobias, in 2021, life has taken an exciting turn with the arrival of our darling Abigail in 2023. And if that wasn’t enough change, we made a big leap and moved back to my beautiful home state of Colorado! What a whirlwind it’s been! Adjusting to life with two little ones has kept me on my toes, so I had to hit pause on my photography for a bit. But even amidst the chaos, my passion for capturing moments never faded. Family trips, cozy days at home, and those adorable, silly moments with my kids—each snapshot still held a special place in my heart. Yet, I can’t help but admit, I’ve really missed the thrill of working with couples, families, and all those interactive moments that made my photography journey so rewarding. Whenever a chance arose and someone needed photos, I eagerly grabbed my camera. The joy it brought me was incredible! Now, it’s been nearly two years since our big move to Colorado, and I feel so grateful for the amazing community we’ve found here. Don’t get me wrong—there are tough days, especially with our extended family still in California, but we've grown stronger and closer through all the challenges. If you find yourself facing big changes or decisions like we did, take a moment to step back and look at the bigger picture. You just might discover some unexpected beauty—like dandelions blooming in the cracks of life's sidewalks.
Whatever you do, do it with all your heart.
Me and my baby boy, Tobias.
Life as a New Mom.
Oh, where do I begin. Becoming a mom is such a blessing! Now, don’t get me wrong — it can be very trying at times, but it’s totally worth the stretching moments. I think the hardest thing for me, is understanding how to balance boundaries with work, friends and family. While at the same time, trying to understand the new priorities as a mom. The word that comes to my mind over and over, GRACE. You just have to have grace in this new role. Somethings will never be the same and that’s okay! Change is hard! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten so frustrated at not being able to do it “all”. I’ve had to pray time and time again. The reality is — I needed to remove a few things off my plate. Like I said, learning your new priorities, it’s an adjustment — but it’s worth it. You forget about the late nights, the cranky moments, crying/wailing nights and the moments where you feel defeated... but as soon as your little one looks at you in awe and cracks that beautiful smile, your tank refills and you have the motivation to keep on striving to be the best momma you can be. You keep loving your little one, because that's all they really care about and quite frankly, need.
In this season I’m in I’ve learned —
Less is more.
It’s okay to grieve the changes, but embrace the beautiful new beginnings.
It takes time to adjust
Have grace with yourself and with your spouse.
You don’t have to prove anything to anyone - you don’t have todo it all!
Reach out for help (something I realized I really struggle with... ugh - talk about pride. GULP)
***if you do not have a support system, Bridges Pregnancy Clinic and Care Center located in Santa Rosa, CA would love to support you in any way that they can.***
xo,
Kels
Say Hello to Tobias Young.
Future Plans for Kelsy Shaffor Photography
Hey friends! As I’ve been navigating this new role as a mom - I’ve had to really re-think how to navigate my business and balance mom/wife life.
This year, the word that I’m going to really focus in on is, “Intentional.”
In order for me to be more intentional with each wedding or client session I am blessed to serve — I need to be taking on less as a whole. Which means, in order give each client 120%, I’ll be taking on a limited number of events and videography sessions.
With that being said…
It’s been fun re-branding, removing and adding new services! I’m slowly re-introducing videography, but more towards small intimate weddings, family and small businesses. My passion to really dive into the overlooked, beautiful moments. My style is more of the journalistic approach, so yes — that includes the moments where you’re laughing so hard you have three chins and you’re crying with tears of joy. I’m also starting to incorporate more studio like settings — so stay tuned!
So — lets rock and roll with this new year and I’ll see ya on the other side!
