Hello!
I'm Tessa—a 24-year-old photographer and artist based out of South Jersey and Philadelphia, PA with a passion for capturing moments that feel cinematic and surreal. I fell in love with photography at age 12, but it wasn’t until I started experimenting with light and color that I truly discovered my passion for creating dreamlike, transformative images.
By high school, I was exploring art further through photography and graphic design classes, but it was also then that I realized how liberating it was to break the rules rather than follow them. Inspired by paintings, music, and films, my work blends reality with artistic storytelling.
Beyond photography, I express myself through painting and poetry, and I enjoy immersing myself in the world of herbalism and wellness—finding balance and inspiration in nature’s rhythms.
In February 2020, I self-published Ones and Zeros, a photography and poetry collection exploring the intersection of my photography and emotions. I also dedicated a section in the back of the book to showcasing other small, up-and-coming artists across different mediums, accepting submissions to highlight their work alongside mine.
In June 2022, I joined the documentation team for Beardfest, a three-day celebration of creative energy that encourages artistic expression in everyone. Set in South Jersey’s beautiful Pinelands Preserve—just 20 minutes from my hometown—Beardfest offers a chance to unplug, experience an eclectic range of live music, and participate in workshops led by fellow festival-goers. I first discovered the festival at 17, and just weeks later, I attended my first Beardfest. I was immediately captivated by its diverse creativity, and eight years later, I’m still deeply connected to it.
My photo work has been recognized internationally, with two features on Vogue Italia’s photography platform. I've also had the privilege of photographing a multitude of bands, including The Motet, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Neal Francis, The Main Squeeze, and many more. Live music isn’t just something I capture—it’s a core part of who I am, shaping both my art and my journey.
I'm currently taking on new projects. Let’s create together—contact me at tessaephoto@gmail.com or my inquiry form here.