Hi, I’m Shira—a photographer, memory maker, and proud mom of two. Since 2010, I’ve had the privilege of capturing life’s milestones, everyday moments, and all the beautiful chaos in between for families across Howard County, Maryland, and the greater DMV area. Through my work, I aim to celebrate life’s fleeting moments and preserve memories that families can cherish forever. 

Apple of My Eye Photography & Design was the first chapter of my journey, where I honed my craft and built lasting relationships with wonderful families. Along the way, I also served as a photographer and later as Director of Preschool Photography at a school photography company based out of Bethesda, gaining invaluable experience in capturing the unique spirit of children in a school setting and learning priceless lessons about business and the importance of customer service and building relationships. 

After taking a brief hiatus to focus on my family and settle into our forever home in Olney, Maryland, I felt a renewed calling to blend my love for family and school photography under one roof. And so, Sweet Smile at Me Photography was born—a fresh take on school photography, where my mission is simple: to capture the most genuine smiles and the best expressions, creating photos that families will treasure for years to come. 

When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me at home in Olney with my husband, James, and our two energetic boys, Ethan and Liam. We’re also joined by our three beloved cats, Willow, Faith, and Lucy, who make life even more lively and fun.

Whether I'm photographing your child’s school portrait or capturing the milestones of your growing family, I approach each session with warmth, patience, and an eye for those perfect, unposed moments. I believe every smile tells a story, and I’m here to help  preserve those stories, one photograph at a time. I don't want you to have school portraits, I want you to have portraits that happen to have been taken at school.

I am so excited to work with your child’s school and to capture the joy and spirit that make them uniquely themselves!