Katie Stiegler Albion NY Photographer

Welcome, I’m Katie

An 80s baby, wife, and mama of three. I've been with my hunk of a husband for over half my life—18 years, to be exact. Our babies, Mason (6), Ava (5), and Vince (1), are still very much babies, and this season of life is all about presence and patience.

The way to my heart? It’s not about luxury—it’s about depth. A thoughtful conversation, an open heart, a metaphysical book that makes me think, or an outdoor getaway where I can reset. A solo Target trip in peace? Yes, please. I have a green thumb, love my houseplants, and care way too much about clean water, detoxing, and overall health. I’m a self-proclaimed food snob (in the best way), and as much as I hate to admit it… my husband, Andrew, has an unmatched work ethic. He grows produce, tends to his grain, and provides for our local community during harvest season.

Our dream has always been to build something of our own—an independent life as entrepreneurs, giving our kids as much of our time as possible in this fleeting, beautiful life. Naturally, that led us to a 1900s remodeled farmhouse on 100 acres, our forever home (at least until the little ones leave the nest).

Katie Stiegler Albion NY Photographer
Katie Stiegler Albion NY Photographer
Katie Stiegler Albion NY Photographer
Katie Stiegler Albion NY Photographer

ME IN A NUTSHELL

Way to my heart

A slow, intentional night out—great food, deep conversation, and no rush.

Favorite Appetizer

East Coast Oysters with mignonette sauce.

Beverage of choice

Hot latte, oat milk, butter pecan.

Favorite Music

Hip Hop & RnB, naturally.

Biggest Weakness

Never turning down a good time.

Favorite Book

The Power of Kabbalah by Yehuda Berg

From Digital Marketing Manager to Documentary Photographer

Photography was never the plan—not Plan B, C, or D. I was supposed to be a city girl, child-free, climbing the corporate ladder, pouring my energy into a career until I was "successful enough"—only to retire at 65 and hope I had enough health left to finally start living, in whatever years remained. But somewhere in the multiverse, this version of me took a different door.

I worked hard, earned my bachelor’s degree in Computer Animation and Digital Media, and landed a full-time career as a website manager straight out of college, staying with the same company for nearly eight years.

I first picked up a camera in 2007 for a black-and-white film class. By my senior year, I abandoned computer animation altogether, choosing instead to document abandoned ruins across Western NY, eventually publishing a book for my senior gallery.

Between then and now, I built experience in product photography, corporate headshots, and branding. But in 2020, everything shifted. I was searching for real connection and realized photography could be a healing space—not just for me, but for others. So, I went against the grain. I took families outdoors, prompted them to play, and helped them embrace the moment instead of forcing stiff, unnatural poses.

Nearly five years later, this has become more than just a passion project. Lumenopia is about illuminating an experience—capturing connection over perfection. Photography should never feel awkward or forced. It should be one of the most meaningful experiences you invest in—a piece of your legacy, preserved for a lifetime.