PORTRAITS
PORTRAITS
PORTRAITS
NATURE
NATURE
NATURE
MUSIC PHOTOS
MUSIC PHOTOS
WEDDINGS
EDITORIAL
MUSIC PHOTOS
PORTRAITS
PORTRAITS
MUSIC PHOTOS
MUSIC PHOTOS
WEDDINGS
EDITORIAL
MUSIC PHOTOS
WEDDINGS
EDITORIAL
PORTRAITS
About
Approaching photography as narrative, I bring together my degree in photojournalism and more than a decade of experience documenting life across New Mexico. My work is grounded in a documentary approach, shaped by real emotion, thoughtful storytelling, and an appreciation for the small, often overlooked moments that reveal who we are. I believe photography is both art and archive—an opportunity to preserve the feeling of a moment, not just the way it looked. Getting to know the people I photograph is one of the greatest privileges of this work, and I’m continually honored to be invited into meaningful chapters of their lives. Whether I’m witnessing a quiet exchange, offering gentle direction, or simply observing life unfold, my goal is always the same: I strive to make images that honor your story with authenticity, artistry, and heart.
Centrally Located in Northern New Mexico. Serving: Santa Fe, Jemez, Los Alamos, Española, Taos, Chama, Abiquiu, Angel Fire, Red River, and surrounding areas.
Portraits
Each portrait session lasts about an hour, giving us space to create thoughtful, expressive images. From seniors to families to couples, the focus is always on authentic connection and storytelling. SELECT TO LEARN MORE.
Documentary
Documentary sessions unfold over 2+ hours, giving space for real moments and meaningful interactions to naturally emerge. Whether in your home or on location, the focus is on storytelling, and the art found in everyday life. SELECT TO LEARN MORE.
Elopements
Taylored elopement packages blend meaningful moments with a sense of adventure, allowing your story to unfold in a way that feels personal and true. With a documentary approach, I capture the emotion, landscape, and connection that make your day uniquely yours. SELECT TO LEARN MORE.
Extended Portfolio
Alongside my client work, I photograph travel, music, and editorial stories with the same focus on art, narrative, and authentic moments. If you have a project in mind, I’m excited to collaborate. SELECT TO LEARN MORE.
Print Shop
Explore a selection of prints drawn from my adventures, travels, and time spent observing wildlife. These images are created with a documentary eye and a love for the natural world. SELECT TO LEARN MORE.
Client Testimonials
Audrey S.
"Sam did our maternity and our day in the life family session. Both sessions were amazing, we love the photos! Capturing these moments with our baby girl is so important and I would recommend her a 1000X over."
Allison W.
"We selected Samantha Waidler Photography to shoot our recent elopement ceremony and I am absolutely blown away by how great our wedding photos turned out! Sam is a fantastic photographer with a keen eye for detail; she does so much more than just document an event, she perfectly captures the feeling of it."
Angela A.
"Words can not express how thankful we are for Samantha Waidler Photography! She did an amazing job capturing our recent engagement and wedding. From the very beginning, she was professional, kind, passionate, and flexible."