KARA HANES

I live and work in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and I love photographing weddings across West Michigan, Detroit, and Chicago. My couples value genuine connection, joyful moments, and timeless storytelling through photography.

Photography changed my life. I co-founded Hopelynd because I believe it can change others' too, and every session you book with Kara Hanes Photography supports that mission.
Hopelynd is a nonprofit dedicated to providing complimentary photography to individuals and families living with disabilities, ensuring their meaningful moments are captured with dignity and care. If you'd like to join us in supporting this mission, you're welcome to donate any amount below.

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From the photographer

The story Behind the lens

In 2025 I co-founded Hopelynd, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing professional photography, free of charge, to individuals and families living with disabilities in West Michigan.

The name holds everything. It's woven from the middle names of my daughter Naomi Lynne, who has Autism, and my co-founder Kellie Hetler's daughter Gabriella Hope, who has limb differences and is Profoundly Deaf.

This work isn't separate from my photography, it is my photography. The same care I bring to your wedding or senior session is the same care I bring to every Hopelynd family.

Your donation at work

How your gift helps

Free family sessions for individuals and families with disabilities, every pop-up event is sponsored and completely free to attend.

Photographer training so more photographers across Michigan can serve this community with confidence and care.

Representation and community, because seeing yourself in a beautiful photograph tells you something true about your worth.

— Hopelynd Mission

"Everyone deserves to be seen. Not just photographed, truly seen."

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