Sol Focus Studios

$300

Starting price

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Photoshoot type

Physical copies

About

With over 24 years as a professionally trained photographer, I blend technical skill with an artful, storytelling approach. You deserve the photoshoot of your dreams, and my goal is to create authentic, emotionally honest images you’ll treasure for years. I specialize in portraits, weddings, engagements, events, commercial work, real estate, and more – always focusing on real moments, natural connection, and thoughtful composition. As a one-person studio, you’ll work directly with me from planning to final delivery, ensuring personal attention, consistency, and care. I’m committed to quality, fair pricing, and great service on every project. If you’re looking for heartfelt, professional photography with a creative touch, let’s talk about your vision.

Overview

Hired 7 times

Serves Dana Point, CA

Background checked

1 employee

24 years in business

Business hours

This pro hasn't listed their business hours.

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Credit card, and Square cash app.

Social media

Facebook, Instagram

Top Pro status

Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.

2021

Services offered

Photoshoot type

Photography style

Traditional

Candid

Artistic

Natural

Photoshoot location

Outdoors

Photo studio

Home

Office

Projects and media

Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and value.

Great 4.8

10 reviews

5

90%

4

0%

3

10%

2

0%

1

0%

Read reviews that mention:

Harmony R.

May 10, 2021

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Hired on Thumbtack

Michaela is great to work with! She is professional, on time, responsive, easy to communicate with, open to ideas, and accommodating to your vision. She has a relaxed demeanor and works hard. She got a second shooter. Her pictures were beautiful and she delivered within a week.

Details: Prom or formal • 50 - 99 guests • Outdoors • Digital or online download • CD / DVD • Flash drive

Sol Focus Studios's reply

Thanks so much Harmony! It was such a beautiful event to work with, happy to help!

Wedding and Event Photography

Sarah T.

Oct 24, 2021

•

Hired on Thumbtack

Michaela was truly an amazing person to have with us for our special day. She ensured that we were both relaxed and very comfortable. It felt as if it was just her, my fiancé, and I on the beach. I couldn’t have picked a better photographer. Please don’t make the mistake and overlook her. She goes above and beyond. Truly a wonderful gem to be around and work with. Thank you so much Michaela!

Details: Wedding • Fewer than 25 guests • Outdoors • Digital or online download

Wedding and Event Photography

Orion G.

Mar 30, 2021

Michaela really puts her creativity and whole self into every aspect of her photography. Her portraiture is absolutely beautiful; she brings out the best image if the subject’s personality. Of course she arrives with a pleasant, happy, and professional demeanor. Her equipment and technical skill are top level. I was impressive that she really studied her craft with a technical education before the “ digital filter” age of photography. She’s the real deal ! I wouldn’t think of anyone else for my Daughters first portrait.

Sol Focus Studios's reply

A huge thanks to you Orion - your daughter was such a beauty to work with!

Donna D.

May 18, 2021

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From Google

I can't say enough great things about this business! I contacted Sol Focus Studios because I wanted to get some current photos taken of myself to give to my husband for our anniversary, as well as for my parents for their anniversary. I haven't had my photos taken professionally for many years, and I was immediately impressed with the photos on the Sol Focus Studios' website. My Dad is also a photographer, so I grew up knowing what to look for in terms of hiring a fellow photographer. Michaela's photos on the Sol Focus Studios website are incredible, and she has a wonderful eye for capturing great and unique photos, as both a photographer and an artist.Michaela responded right away, and had outstanding ideas in making my photo experience perfect. She suggested a beach scene as the background, and the photo shoot was truly amazing! I had so much fun, and Michaela really knew how to make me feel at ease and was able to capture both posed photos as well as natural ones. She took many different photos, and assured me that I would be happy with the end product, which I was. In fact, the photos came out beautifully, and exceeded even my highest expectations!I would encourage anyone who wants professional photographs taken for weddings, engagements, a special event, or just to have a fun experience to hire Michaela at Sol Focus Studios! She is personable, professional, accommodating, affordable, and a truly gifted photographer! You definitely will not be sorry!

Sol Focus Studios's reply

Thank you so much, it was such a pleasure working with you and I appreciate all the great feedback!Michaela

Johnny S.

May 20, 2021

•

From Google

Sol Focus Studios's reply

Credentials

Background Check

Michaela Gardner

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My prices are lower than most simply because I'm building my business on Yelp and also looking for repeat patrons who I can offer great discounts to.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelor of arts degree in photography from a top photography school: Brooks Institute of photography in Santa Barbara. I have extensive training in lighting, portraiture, architectural photography and digital photo editing.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I have been a photographer since childhood and have done various art shows in both Hawaii and California. I have worked with designers on a line of photographic greeting card.

Sol Focus Studios

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