Hi, I'm Lena!
Meet the Photographer
I believe that knowing where we come from makes us feel more whole—and that photography is one of the most powerful ways we can preserve those stories for generations to come.
My passion for storytelling is rooted in my heritage. In the late 1800s, my Scandinavian ancestors immigrated to the United States in search of a better life. Their resilience and sacrifice gave me the opportunity to live a life full of creativity and connection—and I honor that every time I pick up my camera.
Photo: Claire Hartnell
From a young age,
I felt called to reconnect with the traditions and cultures of the “motherland.” I studied Scandinavian Studies and Fine Art at North Park University in Chicago, where generations of my Swedish relatives also attended.
After spending over a decade living and photographing in Stockholm, Sweden, and Oslo, Norway, I returned to California and made my home in Solvang—the Danish Capital of America—in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley.
Today
I specialize in wedding and lifestyle photography that celebrates heritage, family, and authentic connection. My work is deeply inspired by a love of culture, storytelling, and the beauty of everyday moments—whether I’m documenting a vineyard wedding, an elopement by the coast, or a family legacy session in the golden light of Central California.
Photo: Victoria Snider
Rooted in Heritage
I don’t wear this outfit every day—but it holds deep meaning. The traditional Norwegian dress you see is called a Bunad, a national costume representing your family’s specific region of Norway. I don’t wear this outfit every day—but it holds deep meaning.
My Great-Great-Grandfather Helge Hagen and Family in Stamnes, Norway
Our Family Farm in Norra Strö, Sweden where my aunt and uncle still live
The road signs pointing to the town of Norra Strö, Sweden where my ancestors are buried
Sheep at our family farm in Norra Strö, Sweden
We have had the honor to work with Lena twice now.
First, she helped us surprise our two friends who were eloping in Santa Barbara. She captured our friends' elopement so beautifully and truly went above and beyond to capture pictures at two locations for us. Her friendliness and professionalism made our friends feel so comfortable taking photos with her - which is very important when surprising someone with a photographer!
Second, she helped capture our micro wedding. All we can say is WOW. She photographed every single moment of our day so perfectly. She worked magic with capturing the personalities of both us and our guests. She captured moments during our wedding in ways we didn't even see with our own eyes that day. And the whole time she did it with the best and most cheerful attitude of any vendor we have ever worked with. Lena makes you feel like she is your friend and partner the instant you meet her and throughout the entire process.
We can't wait to work with her again for future life events!
-KELSEY
