Jessyka: Softness in the Shadows

There’s a quiet strength that lives in Jess — a tension between grace and grit that the camera can’t help but linger on. She’s a versatile model, capable of transforming from bold to ethereal with the smallest shift of her gaze. But this series wasn’t about creating artifice; it was about revealing the real.

Shot in black and white, these portraits strip away distraction. The tattoos, the lines, the stillness — they tell stories of survival and playfulness, of rebellion that doesn’t need to be loud. When Jess saw the images, she said, “You made me look soft.”

But softness, I think, is just another form of power. I didn’t make her soft — I made her honest.

A Love Story at The Mayo: Melissa & Stephen’s 10-Year Anniversary

I remember the first time I met Melissa and Stephen. It was 2012, and I was hosting a Valentine’s-themed photo booth at a local event in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They walked in, bashful but confident, still carrying that beautiful uncertainty that comes with a first date. They stood before my camera for the very first time as a couple — and little did any of us know, that photo would be the first frame in a love story that would last a lifetime.

Over the years, we’ve stayed friends. I watched them fall in love, say “I do,” and build a life together with quiet strength and laughter. When you’ve known someone that long, it’s almost poetic to see how both love and art evolve — how the years add depth, confidence, and grace.

Now, more than a decade later, I had the privilege of photographing them again — this time, as husband and wife celebrating their 10th anniversary. We chose the historic Mayo Hotel as the backdrop: a place full of light, architecture, and timeless elegance. It felt symbolic — much like their relationship, strong and classic, yet full of warmth and spark.

As a photographer, there’s something surreal about capturing the same souls at different points in time. My work has grown, just as their marriage has. Each image carries a decade of laughter, growth, and shared memories — proof that love, when nurtured, only becomes more radiant with time.

Here’s to Melissa and Stephen — ten years of love, partnership, and the beautiful art of growing together.

Artist: Jeannette Gomez

In her red dress and layers of pearls, Jeannette Gomz steps into the frame like a living painting—bold, radiant, and unafraid of color. Her work is a celebration of spirit and creativity, blending symbolism, personal myth, and raw expression. Surrounded by flowers, palettes, and canvases, she carries both softness and fire, reminding us that art is not just something we look at—it’s something we live.

Jeannette’s portraits tell a story of transformation: a woman rooted in tradition yet reaching toward something larger, cosmic, and wild. The rubber duck she holds in one image, the vivid chaos of color in another, and the sacred heart imagery around her all point to a playful yet deeply spiritual artistic vision.

At Tallulahmade, we celebrate artists like Jeannette who blur the line between life and art. She is not simply making paintings—she is the art. Her presence, her dress, her surroundings, and her creations weave together into one continuous act of expression.

Summer Solstice 2025

This week, I gathered with a group of incredible women to celebrate the Summer Solstice—the longest day of the year and a sacred moment of light, stillness, and reflection. Across cultures and centuries, the Solstice has marked a time of transition, abundance, and illumination. It reminds us to pause, to honor how far we’ve come, and to consciously choose what we’re calling in.

On June 21, we honored the peak of the sun’s power—a day to reflect, release, and realign. June 22 invited us to integrate what surfaced, to let the light settle in our bodies and guide us gently. On June 23, we embraced the mystical edge of midsummer, a time steeped in ritual and intuition, when dreams speak and the unseen becomes clearer.

And now, on the 24th, I release these photos to this group and to these wonderful females as an offering—as a love letter to my friends of the power of sisterhood, presence, and creativity in this time of fruitfulness. These images are more than documentation. They are a reflection of what it means to show up, to create in community, and to honor the sacred in the everyday.

What we learn from each other in these moments is priceless. That vulnerability is strength. That gathering with intention is a radical act. And that through food, conversation, and shared creation, we remember we are never alone. This Solstice was a reminder that light isn’t about perfection—it’s about being real, being ready, and being witnessed.

To the sun, thank you for staying a little longer.
To these women, thank you for shining with me.
To this season, we are ready for what’s next.

Creative Director: Dara Dagun

Beautiful Models: Tamara Miller, Amanda De Leon, Cynthia Spotz, Shawne Dubois, Arline Vazquez, Ember Morrigan, Imogen Nikolaevna, Dara Dagun, Eryn Branham

Studio: The Meadow AZ

The Future Ms. Arizona UIE

I believe in speaking things into existence. It is the only way to life. When I met this young lady, it was providence because we both had goals that aligned. I wanted to take beautiful and elegant studio shots to brush up on my studio photography. She needed studio photos in order to advance to the Ms. Arizona UIE beauty competition.

We aligned.

And thus art was made. In recent times, I have been getting in tune with myself in order to make real connections with the people that I work with. I believe before, I wanted acceptance and for people to like my work. Now, I just want ME to like my work and that will transfer to the client, who ultimately will hype you up.

Energy transfers.

So if I have any advice to give to anyone, share your good energy and love you have for yourself with others before you embark on any creative venture together. Then you will produce the product I have created with the help of the FUTURE Ms. Arizona UIE.

Alice and Wonderland Concept/Cosplay Shoot

In the dark beautiful hallow,
of Wonderland, Alice sits upon a tree trunk
wrapped and tied her,
golden curls her crown of dreams
and the last glimmering remnants
of her childhood.
O merry, the Hollywood glitz and glam
The stars abound yet there be
Such unseen chains that
still wrap her even as she stands,
Liberated from the cut trunk of wood.

Where those dreams were contained,
Freed from her bonds
She gazes deep into the mirror's lie,
but the reflection appears so sweet yet.
The mirrored lies in public and plain sight,
all lies.
Far Beyond those flawed screens
and filled with doubt and sorrow and muffled screams.
She is told to eat this.

She is told to drink this.
She is told to wear this.
and Alice so obliges,
as her bounds and chains
have been changed
into rings and things
wig removed,
her true self, Shone pixie cuts.
Oh so bold the news reports.
Look at Alice, look at what she's become
and all Alice can say
is drink me.
Eat me.
Wear my harms.

Inspired by Alice in Wonderland
Model: Shila Garner
MUA: Nicki Neckro
Location: Tulsa, OK
Music: Avalanches, " Wherever you go"
Poem is written, narrated, and copyright by @tallulahshoots (Tiffany Arriagada)
Originally shot 2013. Reedited 2024.
.

Cosplay Photoshoot: The Mushroom Fairy Party

In a hidden glade deep within the forest, where sunlight danced through the leaves, lived the mushroom hat fairies. Each morning, they would weave delicate caps from the finest fungi, adorned with dewdrops and tiny blossoms. These hats weren't just for beauty but held powerful magic, connecting the fairies to the butterflies, light, fog, birds, and bees of the forest. With their hats, they could commune with nature in ways humans could only dream of, casting spells of protection and harmony. But one foggy morning, as the fairies prepared for their annual dance with the forest creatures, they discovered their hats missing, sending panic through the woodland realm. Determined to restore balance, the fairies embarked on a quest, seeking aid from their natural allies to uncover the truth behind the disappearance and restore harmony to their enchanted home.

“The Mushroom Fairy Party”
Story and Photos by @tallulahshoots

Models and Credits:
Music: @bjork
“It’s Oh So Quiet”
Location: @themeadowaz
Models: @becs.the.creative @sarahyongofficial @wing_it_and_love_it @yoitzmaddie @germanygabrielle
Coordination: @betzel_creative @wing_it_and_love_it Mushroom Hats: @wing_it_and_love_it
Dresses: Amazon

As an aside, I had an amazing time shooting with these ladies!! Photographers are NOTHING without the models that support their art. I am always grateful.

#mushroomhat #cosplay #fairy #forest #imagination #love #bjork #itsallsoquiet #butterflies #bunnies #mushroom #fairytale

The Most Fantastic Backyard Engagement Party Ever!

When you think of a backyard engagement party, what comes to mind?

Maybe a dusty red grill being operated by Dad in his infamous “Kiss the Chef ” apron?

Maybe you even think of large white laminate tables covered in leaves from last autumn, a few streamers, and ketchup from your last family reunion? Maybe you think of mom running around picking up red plastic cups and opening big brown trash bags.

I can attest, this was not that type of event.

When my client contacted me to tell me she was throwing a backyard engagement family, I thought, “hmmmm, well this should be interesting!” As a custom, I always ask for details about the decorations, lighting, etc. But, I could have never imagined that what I was entering was an engagement wonderland.

The bride-to-be’s father built a deck specifically for this event complete with steps. A private bartender was brought in to liven up the adults. Tables were not adorned with streamers, but with beautiful purple orchids. The father wasn’t sweating away in front of a dusty grill, but dressed in a stylish blue suit greeting the guests.

The mother wasn’t walking around feverishly looking for plastic cups. Instead, entered a Iranian queen decked in a smart purple cocktail lacy dress and magnetic smile. You would have thought she was the bride by the cheers and ululation of the relatives. Yet, in the midst of her celebrity, she sought me out, grabbed my hand, and asked me a laundry list of rapid fire questions: “Have you eaten? Are you satisfied? You must eat!!” After she affirmed my well-being and that I was in fact not a starving artist, she proceeded to make the rounds as “Mother of the Bride.”

Never had I been treated so well at an event.

I could sit here all day and describe the event. But let’s let the 1000 words do the trick!

Sweet 16 and Growing Up

I never thought that I would look back one day and say “I vaguely remember being 16.” I thought that I would remember my teenage years; every detail; every friend; every triumph and every fail.

The truth is that I remember very little. But what I do remember is formidable and lasting.

I remember having friends and meeting them at the mall for an afternoon of shopping. That was my first taste of independence. I didn’t drive. But I do remember riding in cars with boy for the first time (without my parent’s knowledge of course). I also remember the feeling of turning sixteen and remembering the famed movie “Sixteen Candles” and thinking that this would be my future.

It’s funny to think about these things now as I re-edit photos from this shoot I shot back in 2021. I watched this young woman go from being a typically teenager to being a “young woman” all in the span of a rainy evening.

As I spend the next few weeks catching up on my blog, I look forward to sharing more of these introspective moments with you, my audience. It is important to feel what I felt when I shot these photos to embody the why and the how. The experience is just as important as the final product.

The Baby Shower of Jigg and Jess!

On March 4, 2023, I had the esteemed opportunity to shoot my little cousin’s baby shower. Please note that I use the term “little” very loosely.

“Someone special, someone dear, someone new to love is here.”

It was an opportunity for two families to come together and celebrate the arrival of a newest family member, Baby J. It is also an opportunity to spread good energy and well-being to the baby while he shares his connection with his mother.

“Here’s to smiles, laughter, patience, and joy. We hope you get a healthy baby girl or boy.”

This baby shower, however, was very special because it involved remembrances. My dear cousin lost both of her parents a few year ago. This event gave us the chance to remember them as well through the love that my cousin shares with her spouse, Jigg. This is just as important as recognizing the coming of new life.

I cannot stress the importance of sharing love and support with new mothers during this time of creation. The process of bonding begins at the inception of life and continues throughout the development process. If the mother feels loved, then the baby feels loved. If the mother feels stressed, then the baby feels that stress. Baby showers are a way of giving the mother love, and by proxy, the baby as well. It is an intrinsic relationship that essential for the overall success of the human race. I would, daresay, that showing love for the future is more important than it has ever been in our lifetimes since we are currently experiencing a decline in birth rates.

“Lots and love and the best of wishes on the arrival of your little one.”

Therefore, this is a celebration! This is new life defying all birth rate statistics. This is our future.

Share with me in this time of remembrance and capture the energy of this documented event through the lens of Tallulah.

Dana and Matt's Intimate Backyard Wedding

I had the amazing opportunity to shoot two of my dear friend's wedding: Dana and Matthew.  Years ago, the two met a wine party I was hosting. And now, they are getting married. This was wonderful event to have been apart of. 

The event was hosted in their lovely backyard which they spent months landscaping to make it perfect for their wedding day. There were children, hammocks, and baby's breath.  There was down home cooking, lace, laughter, and lots of greenery marked by sentimental music of the era that marked the style of this backyard Broken Arrow wedding.

Cupcakes and Instagram: Laurannae Gourmet Cupcakes (SHOP LOCAL)

            I may have a small addiction to Instagram. Some nights my addiction can take hold of me and ravage my mind for a number of hours without my knowledge. Most times I’m completely sucked in by make-up videos and watching people do hair.

            While doing a little bit of late night Instagram perusing, I came across the “recommended section” of this addictive app. It’s the section where Instagram handpicks videos or pictures it thinks you might like.  One of my naughty little past times is to watch pastry chefs from all over the world make cakes, take pictures of cakes, or simply just cake. I’m especially a fan of cupcakes and mini cakes. One of those very chefs that popped up on my Instagram radar was Laurannae Gourmet Cupcakes. 

            Now cupcakes aren’t a new thing if you haven’t noticed.  In fact everyone and their dog have hopped on the cupcake train. And, for whatever reason, everyone seems to think they can make cupcakes. It’s true, anyone CAN make a cupcake. But not just anyone make a work of art (and taste).

            What most people don’t know about me is that I attended culinary school (many many MANY years ago) affording me the opportunity and exposure to the art and beauty of pastries. That fortunate exposure brought me a bit of the snooty food upbringing that makes me very un-accepting of certain food trends because there are certain gimmicks that simply cannot pass as art (nor food).

            Laurannae is art. Lauranne is food.

            With each delectable picture, you can tell how much love and planning went into the batter of the cupcakes. What's more is that the focus does not lie in the color of the batter; rather in the taste and boldness of the flavor. That’s a far cry from the many cupcake/cake businesses around town that put anything in their cakes to make it look cool yet sacrifice on taste. 

            The funny thing is that you can see the taste in the cake these ladies sling. I’m serious. You can see bits and pieces of fruit. You can smell the zest of the lemon. You can feel the warmth of the chocolate. Looking at their chalkboard menu on the side of their vintage caravan cupcakery, it’s like you’re picking from a basket of summer fruit and begging them to make you fat.  

            When I contacted the ladies of Laurannae Cupcakes about collaborating on a shoot, they were more than willing to “put up” with my photographic shenanigans sounding just as excited as I was to work with them.  The date of the shoot I met them at a local vendor event held at the Restore House where the ladies were selling their cupcakes.

            “You came at the perfect time. The line has really just started to die down,” said Jessica (Laura), co-owner of the vintage inspired cupcakery.

            The gourmet cupcake shop is no brick and mortar layout. Instead it is a vintage style camper that, depending on the season, is adorned with either feathers or lights, or whatever these ladies choose. Jessica stuck her hand out of the window and shook mine, then came to meet me around the side door. Through the door, I could see icing and some beautiful potential cupcakes waiting their turn to be dressed and adorned.

            Laurannae was started in 2011 by two sisters with “a passion for baking and loved all things party.” It is the combination of both of their names (Jessica Laura & Kimberly Rannae) and pronounced “Laura-nay.”  After six years of growth and the launch of THE Vintage Cupcake Trailer, they are a local favorite and staple.  

            “I promise it will only take a minute. Do you have some cakes for me to shoot,” I said, nervously. Was this reality? Was I was actually here meeting the women behind the cake? What could I do but be nervous. 

            “You could shoot over there….or maybe there on that bench…or even out front, like on the trailer, “ Kim suggested after poking her head through the trailer door.

            I looked around and saw there was a small line beginning to form behind me and stepped around back to coordinate with Jessica. Through the screen window, I could see the love and time these ladies put into their little cakes.  I could see how every detail was uniquely theirs and how they connected with their customers. Some of them sat and talked at the window telling them about how amazing their cakes were.  Others bought cake and you could see the excitement on their children’s faces as they went to open the dome encasing each cake was held in.

            This was food love at it’s greatest.

            This was a family affair.

            This was simply family.

            And I had fallen head over hills in love with a local business.

Follow these girls on Instagram at @laurannaecupcakes

Like these girls on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LaurannaeGourmetCupcakes/

Check out their website at http://www.laurannaecupcakes.com/

 

 

Bridal Elegance Tulsa and the "She Said Yes" Photobooth!

Saturday, July 16th, 2016, I took part in Bridal Elegance Tulsa's first ever participation in the National Bridal Sale! There were mimosas, cupcakes, and brides galore! It was amazing seeing countless women and their entourage searching through endless beautiful dresses to find "THE DRESS." I had the opportunity to host a cute photobooth, meet some brides, and drink lots of pink sparkling wine!

Inherent Vice: Kupcakez

"Well I WAS going to get you guys a surprise, but since you can't seem to get along, I guess I'm not getting you anything." Those were the famous last words I threatened my kids with as they argued over why children under 100 pounds aren't allowed to ride in the front seat.  Suffice to say, I absolutely caved and they still got the "surprise" I was going to get them. Merely idol threats because I was going to get a cupcake whether they got along or not. Every mother knows that there's no such thing as not sharing food (unless you eat it in a closet of course). I am completely enamored with Kupcak bakery in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  I have been expanding my waistline with them for the last four years and don't see an end in sight. Haven't tried this local treat? No problem! They are easy to find at 6105 S Mingo Rd, Tulsa, OK 74133 (61st and Mingo) . Follow Kupcakez on Facebook!