Get to Know Me
Based in the baltimore - washington area of maryland, United States
Capturing memories and telling stories since 2015
A bit about me
Hi, I'm Sam!
I'm a Maryland-based wedding & portrait photographer with a passion for storytelling through the lens.
By day, I work with the Maryland General Assembly. I’m also a proud graduate of the University of Maryland Carey School of Law and James Madison University!
Outside of work and photography, you can find me riding horses, hanging with my dog, or embroidering.
My love for nature and travel often inspires my photography, but portraits are where I find the most joy — connecting with people and freezing a moment in time.
I strive to capture connection, personality, and emotion in every frame. Whether you're looking for professional headshots, senior portraits, couples sessions, or something in between, I’m here to help you feel comfortable, confident, and seen.
Let’s create something beautiful together.
xo xo
Sam elmquist (fairbanks)
Why Living Begonia Photos?
In high school, a friend and I bonded over a poem titled "Dead Begonia." A couple weeks later, that same friend filled in the name slot of my french worksheet with 'Begonia.' To this day, that french teacher still calls me 'Begonia.' In July 2015, following a friend's garage band photoshoot, I knew this was my place! When it came to picking a name for my business, what was more fitting than my alter ego? However, Dead Begonia Photos did not communicate my love for capturing life and all of its best moments.
Hence, Living Begonia Photos was born!
