Hi, my name is
Tia
I specialize in capturing real people in real moments—no forced smiles, no stiff poses, just honest, vibrant images that reflect who you truly are. My sessions are relaxed, upbeat, and maybe a little goofy (in the best way). Whether you're camera-shy, neurodivergent, trans, queer, or just tired of being told to “smile more,” you’re in the right place.
As a woman-, LGBTQ+-, and neurodivergent-owned business, I’m deeply committed to serving communities that are often overlooked in traditional photography spaces. I have a special passion for celebrating queer joy and creating affirming, empowering experiences—especially for trans and nonbinary clients. I know how powerful it is to feel seen, and I want every person I photograph to walk away feeling radiant, respected, and real.
I got my start in photography back in 2003, working in a children’s portrait studio. After relocating to the stunning Oregon Coast in 2005, I picked up my own DSLR and never looked back. Since then, I’ve photographed everything from weddings and product shoots to golf tournaments, newspaper features, and fancy fundraising events for the Samaritan Hospital Foundation.
But my heart? It’s in the work that uplifts, connects, and celebrates. Whether we’re capturing your family’s chaos and joy, creating something totally weird and wonderful together, or documenting your gender-affirming journey—I’m here for it.
- Session fees are intentionally kept low. I also offer seasonal specials and donate sessions because access matters more than margins.
- I never charge extra for images. Your session includes all culled and edited photos—because your story deserves the full frame.
- I donate photo services to nonprofits I believe in. Community care is part of the work. Ask for info.
- Penguin & Chicken proudly hosts the photo booth at local Pride events. Want a photo booth at your event? Let’s talk.
- Serving Lincoln County, Oregon and beyond—beach, bayfront, woods, dunes, and wherever your story unfolds.
- No forced smiles. No stiff poses. Just you—radiant, real, and unapologetically yourself.
- Sessions are relaxed, upbeat, and maybe a little goofy. We celebrate joy, not perfection.
- Queer joy is revolutionary. Capturing it is my passion.
- Trans visibility matters. Ask about my ongoing portrait project uplifting trans voices.
- Neurodivergent-owned and proudly inclusive. I get it—and I’m here for likeminds.
Penguin & Chicken Photography
What's with the name?
During my days in the children's studio, getting smiles was the name of the game and I had my go-to tools that always did the trick-
A stuffed penguin that liked to play peekaboo to pull out the smiles from the little ones;
and my Knock-knock joke that got the older kids (all ages) to smile every time. It went a little bit like this:
"Knock-knock"
"Who's there?"
"Impatient Chicken"
"Impatient ch...
"buck-ckuck"
I decided I would name my own photography business after my most reliable smile makers, in honor of where I started from, and as a reminder to just keep smiling.
Where we are Located
Penguin & Chicken is located in beautiful Lincoln County, Oregon. There are many different options for outdoor locations and some options for indoor locations. The Beach, the Bayfront, Woods, River, Dunes, Urban, Garden, and more. We can also come to your home or business, if space and lighting allows. Sessions can be located between Waldport to the south and Lincoln City to the north, and Siletz to the East. Inquire about locations outside of our normal service area.
Behind the Lens, Beneath the Sass
- Canon from the start. From my first DSLR to my current mirrorless—I’m a Canon girl.
- Mirrorless since 2023, not completely for the reasons you think… this photographer has little hands and prefers a little camera body.
- I heart floral macros all day, every day—but fungi and insect macros get me excited too.
- Favorite portrait spot: Fogarty Creek State Park. Favorite floral spot: Connie Hansen Garden.
- I’m not comfortable getting my own picture taken, so you will not find many selfies.
FAITRIX FASCINATIONS
You will also see our work listed under FAITRIX FASCINATIONS. During our time away from Penguin & Chicken Photography we published under our sister name. FAITRIX= Fortunes
We are always fascinated by the fortunes of life.