One year ago, I finally launched my Portland photography business after first trying (unsuccessfully) back in February of 2020. Yeah… clearly that didn’t work out. What started with a few free shoots and a round of fall mini sessions in Portland quickly turned into full-length family and couples sessions across Oregon, and then a full […]
One year ago, I finally launched my Portland photography business after first trying (unsuccessfully) back in February of 2020. Yeah… clearly that didn’t work out.
What started with a few free shoots and a round of fall mini sessions in Portland quickly turned into full-length family and couples sessions across Oregon, and then a full calendar. And now, here we are: one year later. This week I’m launching my new business name – Rain & Reverie Photography – and my brand new website (which you’re on right now!).
I’ve actually had the name Madison Nicole Photography since 2020 when I first created this Instagram account. That February, I told my (then) fiancé I was finally ready to go all in on my dream of starting a Portland photography business. A couple weeks later… COVID hit. The world shut down. Plans were paused.
We got married in May 2021, I became pregnant in early 2022, and life took off from there. It wasn’t until last summer (when our son was almost two) that I felt pulled back toward photography. But this time, the old name didn’t feel like it fit anymore. I didn’t have anything better at the time, so I stuck with it. But as I’ve grown, both personally and creatively as a Pacific Northwest photographer, I realized it was time for a name that better reflects who I am and where I want this business to go.
“Rain” is a nod to the PNW. I love the rain – it’s what makes our Portland home green, full of life, and a little bit magical.
“Reverie” means daydream, and that’s how I want your Oregon wedding and family photos to feel: a little dreamy, a little cinematic, and full of real connection.
The only thing that’s changing is the name. My approach to Portland wedding photography, my style, my heart for storytelling photography – that all stays the same.
Since July 2024, I’ve photographed across Portland and Oregon:
That’s 70 sessions in just 12 months as a Portland photographer. I truly never expected this much momentum in year one – and I’m so grateful to the Portland community that welcomed me.
Highlights? Photographing my first surprise proposal at Powell Butte. Capturing my first Oregon wedding. Working with returning clients who trusted me with multiple life moments. Shooting maternity photos for one of my closest friends. Every session across Oregon has meant something to me.
I never imagined I’d own my own Portland photography business. For years, photography was just a hobby – a way to be creative (because let’s be honest, I can’t sing or draw to save my life). But this business has given me a creative outlet that feels so right in the Pacific Northwest.
I came back to photography just before my son turned two, because I needed something that felt like mine. The last five years were packed: the pandemic, getting engaged, a new puppy, a wedding, a baby. For a while I was just “mom.” But with this Portland photography business, I get to be Madison again… and that’s been everything.
Year two of Rain & Reverie Photography is all about growth in Portland wedding photography and beyond. I’m booking more couples and wedding photography in the Portland area and throughout Oregon, and continuing to offer the family and maternity sessions I’ve always loved.
I’m also investing in my education as a Portland photographer, through courses like Basecamp by Dawn Photo, and attending more styled shoots to grow creatively and technically.
This next chapter? It’s about telling love stories across the Pacific Northwest in a more intentional way, building meaningful connections with my Portland clients, and continuing to capture life as it is.
To celebrate Rain & Reverie Photography’s launch, I’m hosting a giveaway with two awesome prizes for Portland area couples and families:
🎁 One Free Keepsake Session A one-hour session for any reason—couples, maternity, family, engagement—anywhere in the Portland metro area.
💍 $200 Off The Ever After Wedding Package Includes an engagement session and 8 hours of wedding day coverage in Portland or throughout Oregon for just $1300. Available to couples getting married in 2026.
The giveaway post is live now on Instagram @rainandreveriephoto! Winners will be announced on August 6th.
Thank you to everyone who booked a Portland photography session, referred a friend, or simply cheered me on this past year. You helped make this dream real in the city I love.
I’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes posts and Portland client stories here every other week—so stick around! And if you’re ready to book your Portland photography session, just hit the button below. I’d love to capture something beautiful for you.
Ready to work with Portland’s Rain & Reverie Photography? Whether you’re planning a Pacific Northwest wedding, need family photos, or want to capture your love story, I’d love to hear from you.
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Have a question or want to say hi? I’d love to hear from you.
madison@rainandreveriephoto.com