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Focusing on capturing human connection, genuine emotion, and honest moments that tell the truest version of your story.

It's So Nice to Meet You

HELLO, HELLO

My full name is Allyson Valea, but you can call me AL! I'm a Minneapolis based lifestyle photographer for modern families and genuine couples. 

"The ability to look back and see our authentic family vibe, our kids' genuine smiles and silliness and curiosity, and the abiding love we share, day in and day out, is invaluable. These photographs - taken in our backyard, our kayak, our home - are worth so much more to us than a collection of posed shots that look just like every other set of family photos out there. Under Al's expert guidance, we experienced a genuinely fun time and received a gorgeous - truly gorgeous! - set of photos that are fun, unique and curated without ever feeling directed or stiff. We will forever be indebted to her creativity, warmth, skill and ability to capture us as we truly are. After experiencing one session like this, there is no way we will let a year go by without booking another lifestyle session so that we can continue to preserve all the moments we want to remember. All five of us agree - 10/10. "


brooke b

So many perfect little moments!!! You're a magician with the camera. Seriously, I can't believe it. I've been so self conscious and struggling with body dysmorphia since being pregnant and these are so healing to look at. I owe you a million thank yous!

"Al has a unique ability to translate vision into reality. She takes the time to deeply understand what I’m hoping to capture, guiding me through everything from planning the overall aesthetic to working through endless outfit possibilities with care and patience. She brings a thoughtful, creative approach to every session, never defaulting to trends or generic poses. Because of that, our photos feel personal, genuine, and reflective of who we truly are—not just a curated version of what a family is expected to look like."

claire m

"The photog wizard! the most TALENTED, genuine, kind & fun person to work with when capturing all the big + small moments in life."

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Stories that feel like yesterday and forever

Capturing genuine human connections and the carefree, fleeting moments that make life beautiful. Whether it’s couples in love, families growing together, or little ones discovering the world.

 Because every laugh, embrace, and perfectly imperfect moment matters, and a life well-lived deserves to be remembered in photographs that feel as real as the day they were made.

The Art I Create

From Kind Souls

Kind Words

AL, is absolutely AMAZING! I dread family photos but she made my entire family (my husband, 2 year old, 4 year old pup and I) feel so comfortable and made it the session FUN! Her photos are just beautiful and I am going to cherish them forever.

molly w

THANK YOU! Narrowing these down is the hardest task of my life! I’ve gone through them all like 100 times this morning already and keep finding more favorites! Can’t wait to get them framed and added to our walls!

brooke b

The BEST experience! She really knows how to make you feel comfortable and confident — and she brings the best energy! She is warm, funny, and energetic; and on top of all that, her work is seriously incredible!! She captures such authentic moments with unbelievable ease and is just so talented.

taylor m

"Everything I needed, wanted, desired to be captured."

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Here, your most meaningful memories are honored, this is your story.

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because a life well-lived deserves     to      be    captured

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