For nearly a decade I’ve been telling the stories of couples from across the U.S. and here at home on Maryland’s idyllic Eastern Shore. Driven by those intimate, authentic interactions, I thoughtfully capture the details that make every occasion unique. It is my privilege to gift these artistic expressions of love to each and every couple—memories that will be passed down for generations to come.
My journey into wedding photography began in event photography with the Chamber of Commerce, then documenting presidential and congressional candidates on the campaign trail. I quickly learned I was energized by the unscripted moments, the candid shots, that revealed the depth of human relationships and the emotions that drive them. That passion ultimately led me to leave the commercial and political world behind for a career in wedding photography, and Karena Dixon Photography was born.
A mom to three beautiful girls, Karena is the visionary and creative force behind Karena Dixon Photography. An extrovert and people person, Karena is intrigued by the nuances of expression and movement that frames human relationships. Her love of travel and architecture inspires her unique vision of every setting and wedding day detail. These moments come alive in the studio where she blends together the scenes from the day into a beautiful forever love story, while her lovely Llewellin Setter, Lady, supervises the entire process.
Vanessa has been a part of Karena Dixon Photography from its very inception. As Karena’s oldest daughter, she is a natural activator and executor. Vanessa helps keep the day moving along, making sure the groomsmen stay corralled and their every fun moment prior to the ceremony is captured with relaxed ease. Vanessa helps chronicle some of the most up-close moments, like when the bride reaches out for her grandmother’s hand during family formals. When she isn’t shooting weddings or serving as Project Coordinator for White Oak Group, Vanessa enjoys traveling (Paris and London are her personal favorites), baking sweets, and spending hours on end in movie marathons. If she’s not doing those things, you might find her lying on a beach with a book or fishing and relaxing on a boat.
Kendall joined Karena Dixon Photography in 2014 after their paths crossed at a Young Life event. A natural motivator, Kendall serves as a Young Life leader and brings those organizational and inspirational qualities to the photography setting. A multi-tasker, Kendall preps and manages the equipment and lighting to make sure Karena never misses a moment of your special event. Aside from keeping Karena organized and hydrated, Kendall uses her artistic side and unique perspective to capture intimate moments and behind-the-scenes candids, making your wedding day memories even more perfect. When she’s not going to school or working in tandem with Karena, she spends time with her cat and enjoys her self-defined status as “animal whisperer,” relishing the simpler things in life: reading, writing, crafting, and enjoying all manner of food and coffee.