From Chef to Charlotte Brand Photographer: My Unexpected Creative Journey

I didn’t set out to become a brand photographer.

My creative path started in the kitchen. I was a chef. Driven, detail-focused, and completely lit up by the sensory world of food. But after years of pushing, producing, and performing, I burned out. I took a step back and tried writing a cookbook, thinking it might help me fall back in love with the work I used to live for.

It didn’t.

What I found instead was something unexpected: a desire to see stories, not just serve them.

That longing led me to photography. And at first, food made sense, it was familiar. But over time, the camera started to draw something deeper out of me. I realized I didn’t want to just style pretty scenes. I wanted to capture presence. I wanted to create visuals that made people feel seen, not just for what they do, but for who they are.

Now, I live and work in Charlotte, NC as a brand photographer and visual artist. I photograph soulful entrepreneurs, chefs, creatives, and brands who are ready to show up with clarity, depth, and a little edge. I also create fine art and offer custom Inner Light Portrait Sessions, an intimate blend of portraiture, painting, and words.

But here’s the fuller version of me:

Burger Majesty by Amanda Loren

I shoot barefoot. I drive barefoot. I’ve followed Dave Matthews across the world. From Las Vegas to Florence, Italy! I write poetry in my notes app. I love cheeseburgers almost as much as I love a slow afternoon with no plans. And my dog Lily? She sulks every time I put on real clothes because she knows it means I’m leaving the house.

Venice & Florence Italy

My husband Craig lives in Doha, Qatar. We’ve been navigating a long-distance marriage since 2018. I write about it sometimes, and you can read more of that story on the blog if you’re curious.

Wilmington, NC

But the most important part of my life? My grown kids. And now, my first grand baby. They are my heartbeat, my purpose, and my greatest pride. I still can’t believe I get to be their Mom and Mimi. Watching the kind, creative humans they’ve become is the honor of my life.

So yes, I take beautiful photos. But what I really do is help people feel seen—in all their seasons, with all their stories. I believe in visuals that carry feeling, in branding that reflects becoming, and in business that’s personal.

If that’s what you’re looking for, you’ve found the right place.

Email me: hello@amandalorenstudios.com for more information or book a call below!