Tell us about yourself — are you originally from Saint Louis?

I’m a freelance portrait and product photographer from St. Charles, Missouri who you can find at my local coffee shop most days or working at home in South City. I’m passionate about visiting new places and traveling, whether abroad or in my hometown, and always documenting everything I see along the way. I’ve been in love with photography for as long as I can remember and it keeps me going and what I truly find the most joy in. Whether it’s taking portraits of someone I just met, shooting brand photos for a small business, or planning a creative and collaborative shoot from start to finish, I love each and every aspect of connecting with new people and creating something amazing together.

How did you get started with photography?

I first started taking photos for fun in high school when I had almost no clue what I was doing. I gradually began learning more as I taught myself and got my first DSLR camera. I’ve always loved photography and knew that was my dream job I wanted to work towards. I was doing it as a small side-business for many years before I took the leap to go full-time, which was scary and exciting at the same time.

How would you describe your photography style?

I would say my photography style is natural, feminine, warm, and bright.

Do you have a certain area of focus when it comes to photography?

I mainly focus on branding portrait shoots with mostly small business owners around St. Louis. I’ve discovered that my passion really lies with supporting and working with small business owners and entrepreneurs in my area. I’ve also started providing product photography to business owners which is another kind of photography I love to do. I get to be creative and style the product in addition to taking photos.

Why TSG? 

I am passionate about supporting and working with small local businesses and I love that that’s what The Scout Guide also believes in and who they work with making a difference in this community by putting the people first.

What are you looking forward to the most with this new role?

I’m looking forward to meeting a lot of new and talented business owners in and around St. Louis and discovering new local businesses!

Favorite place to eat in STL?

Union Loafers

Favorite place to shop in STL?

Polished Prints at City Foundry

Favorite STL attractions or hidden gems?

The Contemporary Art Museum

Learn more about Maddie on her website and social media

Written by Blake Van Patten