As a mother of two, I know how quickly these seasons pass and how often mothers find themselves behind the camera instead of in the frame. I created a photography experience designed to slow things down, remove pressure, and preserve the moments that matter most with intention and care.

golden-hour skies.
wildflower fields & nature.

I'M TONAYA. and I photograph families in the quiet seasons that matter most.

ABOUT TONAYA - MCKINNEY FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER SERVING DALLAS

COFFEE ORDER

caramelicious blended

secret talent

thoughttful gift-giving

I'd rather be

traveling

on my bucket list

aurora lights

perfect day includes

slow mornings

hometown

okinawa

favorite place

home

obsessed with

my children

guilty pleasure

home decor + diy

COFFEE ORDER

cappuccino

Secret Talent

baking sourdough

Perfect day includes

friends + family

obsessed with

birkenstocks

Guilty pleasure

leather bags

QUICK FACTS

FOR THE SKIMMERS

OVER THE YEARS

2019

launching the dream

Documenting my own journey into motherhood sparked a desire to preserve meaningful moments for other families.

2020

editorial foundations

Exploring editorial work refined my eye for light, storytelling, and timeless composition.

2022

my first publication feature

I remember the excitement of finding out that my work has been featured by Vivier magazine. Check it out!

2023

rooted in motherhood & family

I chose to focus fully on documenting families and mothers in the seasons that matter most. 

1.

Through connection and gentle guidance, I create space for natural emotion and honest interaction. Rather than rigid posing, I focus on light, movement, and the quiet in-between moments that can’t be recreated.

I believe the most meaningful photographs are felt, not posed.

2.

It is within all the tiny elements and details that high-quality imagery is created. 

As the creative director behind every single session, I understand how vital color palette, wardrobe, lighting, scenery, posing and expressions are in producing impactful imagery. 

A great deal of time and careful planning is dedicated to each session to give life to stunning work.

I am extremely detail oriented

3.

As a natural light photographer, the sun is the major supporting character in all of my work.

Careful attention is placed on how it's rays radiate and illuminate the scenery and main subjects in every photograph. 

For this reason, I exclusively shoot during golden-hour for the best light.

I chase the sun's light

a few more things you should know

years spent overseas

NUMBERS

7

countries travelled

6

years as a mother

9

The

BEGIN YOUR EXPERIENCE

Don’t Let These Moments Fade Away

Time won’t slow down—but you can. 
Let’s create something timeless together.

FOLLOW ALONG ON THE 'GRAM