Destiny Hokenstad, owner of DLee Photography, secures special moments of life on film.
With a keen eye for detail and a love for capturing fleeting life-events, Hokenstad specializes in family, maternity, engagement/couples and kids.
Catching life here and now is extremely important to Hokenstad. For 10 years this May, photography has been Hokenstad’s passion and her creative outlet.
“My photography is more like a lifestyle with candid photos — basically kids being themselves — laid back, go with the flow. Most photographers have this ‘sit-pose-smile’ mentality. I don’t; my kids don’t vibe like that. I tell my clients to just hang out and run around,” said Hokenstad.
Recently renovating her studio, Hokenstad is prepared to continue to freeze moments in time and share stories through her lens.
“My husband, Andy, has gone above and beyond, helping me,” said Hokenstad. “He and his brother and cousin have put hours and days into this space for me — ripping up the floor and painting the studio white and neutral to appear airy — making it just perfect. My recently renovated studio provides a space for anyone who’d want me to capture their moments in a bright, quiet setting, especially new moms and babies.”
Whether Hokenstad is exploring urban landscapes or chasing the perfect natural light in remote locations, she strives to evoke emotion and convey the beauty she sees in everyday life.
“Lifestyle newborn photography is all about seizing those raw, real and beautifully imperfect moments in the comfort of your home or my studio,” said Hokenstad. “From sleepy snuggles to tiny details and the love that fills the room — these sessions tell the story of growing families just as they are: natural, emotional and full of heart.”
Hokenstad’s mother had bought her disposable cameras as a young girl, and she had a propensity to take pictures.
“As a youngster, I wanted my grandma to see how beautiful she was all the time, and so I’d use those cameras to snap pictures of her. I’d take random pictures of doorways — wanting to see the art in ordinary, simple things,” said Hokenstad. “My grandma died a week before I got married, so she wasn’t there for the wedding, but we’d had the foresight to have family photos done. A few of my friends added her in the wedding photos. My heart wants to seize moments as they are right now. Time is fleeting, and pictures capture tender memories — holding them in our hearts forever.”
Earlier, as a single mom, Hokenstad could not afford a photographer so she set up a little studio in her living room and took pictures of her newborn on her iPhone.
“My friends wanted pictures and their friends wanted pictures, and it just sort of took off from there. My dad helped me with buying all the equipment I needed to get started,” said Hokenstad.
While nearing the end of her second pregnancy, Hokenstad completed many back-to-back sessions — making sure everyone got their photos done before she left on maternity leave.
“At this point, I am averaging six to nine clients a day — which makes me crazy busy in a good way,” said Hokenstad. “People understand that life happens quickly, and they want to capture moments before they’re gone forever.”
There have been people along her journey who have helped Hokenstad, namely Jamie Clark with Make It You Photography. Clark helps out when Hokenstad’s schedule gets too full.
“My first client was Dave Raddant, who — despite the offer of a free session (his dog was nearing the end of its life) — tipped me over $100. This was my very first paid photo shoot. I literally held onto that money and went right to Beyersdorf CPA, becoming a legal business,” said Hokenstad. “Desiring a way to give back, I feel every life event should be captured and not let finances get in the way. I’m willing to work with people.”
As such, she donates time and resources for Shawano’s Head Start program, shooting children’s school photos for free.
Family includes husband Andy, daughters Lennon, 8, and Baylor, 3 months.
Long-range plans include considering renting out the space on Cecil Street in Bonduel to other photographers. As well, Hokenstad is considering adding branch studios in Shawano and Clintonville to accommodate clients.
With her belief in building genuine connections with her subjects, Hokenstad ensures each photograph reflects their unique essence. Beyond technical skills, the approach Hokenstad uses is deeply personal with the goal to create images that resonate and endure, capturing the authenticity and spirit of each moment.
AT A GLANCE
WHAT: DLee Photography
WHERE: 101 N. Cecil St., Bonduel
ONLINE: Connect with Hokenstad on Facebook and Instagram at DLeePhotography715LLC. Her website address is: https://dleephotography715.mypixieset.com.
PHONE: 715-853-3059
EMAIL: destiny.kahl97@gmail.com
Owner Destiny Hokenstad poses with her equipment at her newly remodeled studio in Bonduel. Hokenstad specializes in capturing life events — family, maternity, engagement and children of all ages. (Kay Reminger)
