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Des Moines · Portraits & Events

Real moments,beautifullyframed.

Candid photography for people, families and celebrations. No stiff poses, just the laugh, the wave and the color in the air, kept the way it felt.

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PortraitsIndividuals, couples, families
Weddings & eventsCeremonies, festivals, races
A laughing mother carrying her daughter on her shoulders at a Holi celebrationHoli
Two young runners showing their Grand Blue Mile finisher medals
Girl in Dutch costume waving from a carriage with a windmill behind
Selected work

The portfolio

Event albums

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Were you at one of these? Tap your event to open the full album, then save or share your favorites.

Hemanth, the photographer, in a cream puffer jacket walking past a carved stone relief in Chicago
HemanthPhotographer & founder
Behind the camera

Hi, I'm Hemanth. I chase the second after the smile.

I started Snap Saga Studios in Des Moines to photograph people the way they actually are: mid-laugh at the farmers' market, waving from a parade carriage, covered in Holi color on a parent's shoulders.

I work quietly, mostly in natural light, and let moments happen instead of directing them. You get photos that feel like the day felt.

For once, that's me in front of the lens.

Based inDes Moines, Iowa
StyleCandid, natural light
KitSony a6400 · Tamron 28–75mm
Services

What I photograph

Ask about availability
Woman smelling a bunch of orange dahlias

Portraits

Relaxed sessions outdoors or around town. Little posing, plenty of real expression.

  • Individuals
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Headshots
Women in Dutch provincial costumes waving from a parade float

Events & festivals

Full coverage that catches the in-between moments as well as the big ones.

  • Races
  • Festivals
  • Community events
  • Live music
Family at a garlanded doorway for a housewarming ceremony

Ceremonies

Weddings, housewarmings and family ceremonies covered with care, from the first ritual to the last group photo.

  • Weddings
  • Housewarming
  • Pujas
  • Birthdays
  • Family gatherings
Let's work together

Let's frame your story.

Tell me about your session or event. I'm based in Des Moines and happy to travel around Iowa.

Message @hemanth_thaluru