We are the Watanabe’s (watt-uh-knob-eh’s)!
About Us
Say hey!
Hi, we are so glad to meet you! We are Hannah and Joel, a husband and wife photography team based out of Charlotte, North Carolina! Traveling and making incredible relationships are at the core of who we are, and with our “brand” of photography, it's front and center. Having fun and creating memories and friends is what we are all about.
We like to call ourselves professional celebrators because your important moments are important to us! We are always so honored to be a part of your lives' most cherished memories and are always available to help in any way we can - our past roles include hype person, Starbucks deliverer, and comedic relief.
When we aren’t taking pictures, we spend our time exploring the food scene, riding roller coasters, and snuggling up with our pups to watch Grey’s Anatomy. We would be so happy to hear from you if you have any questions or want to get started with an idea. Let us know!
why we do what we do
We love "love"...cheesy, I know! Joel started photography by taking landscape photos in Hawaii (where his parents are from), and I started in portraiture because I've always been drawn to people and building strong relationships. Our love story developed quickly (3 months of dating, 3 months engaged) and boom, we were married! Jumping into the adventure of marriage was the best choice we have made, and we are so excited to walk through that experience with each of our couples! I personally avoided shooting weddings for years, primarily because I didn't want to have to deal with the mess of finding a second shooter, haha! Being a husband and wife team has been the best of both worlds, and has opened up amazing opportunities (hello 5 weeks in Fort Lauderdale, FL, we are looking at you). We are so excited each year to make new friendships, explore new places, adventure, and live life to the fullest all while serving our clients and making memories that will last a lifetime!
Taking damn good photos!
Riding rollercoasters because sometimes we have a need for speed!
Having friends over to chat by the fire pit with a local beer.
Getting cozy on the couch to play Nintendo 64 or Trivia Crack.
Driving unfamiliar roads in new cities - luckily with North State Photography, we get to explore a lot!
Late night walks with our fur babies!
Exploring the local food, coffee, and drink scene.
Sushi any time, any place!
Anything outdoors - especially water activities and hiking!
✦
✦
✦
✦
✦
✦
✦
✦
✦
Things we dig!
