Welcome to

Lens Be Friends Photography!

Woman in bright red blouse posing outdoors with autumn foliage in background.

Capturing light, feelings & moments and all the things in between people and life.


Hi there, I’m Megan Stickell – the heart behind the lens at Lens Be Friends Photography!


Photography is more than just a passion for me — it’s a way of freezing those beautiful, fleeting moments where time feels like it stands still. I’m drawn to the raw, authentic emotions: the real smiles, the teary-eyed laughter, the quiet glances — and yes, even the wild, crazy ideas you bring to your session. Whether we’re chasing light on a mountaintop or capturing chaos at a family picnic, I love working with my clients to create magical, lasting portraits.


I specialize in full-length family sessions and mini sessions. As a mom myself, I understand the challenges (and joys!) of photographing little ones — from contagious giggles to shy smiles and even those pouty faces. Every moment, messy or magical, tells a story worth remembering.


Those who know me describe me as outgoing, down-to-earth, and someone who loves connecting with new people — hence the name Lens Be Friends Photography! What I love most about photography is this simple truth: even if just for a second, everything can feel absolutely perfect.


I’m an experienced family, portrait, candid, and couple's photographer with a love for black and white imagery. I strive to capture the true essence of my subjects — letting imagination and emotion guide each shot. Like my mother before me, I’ve found my calling behind the camera. A candid photo, after all, can speak louder than words ever could.


Let me bring my vision and lens to your story — and create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.


Warmest wishes,

Megan

"I’ve never stuck with a one in all editing style. I truly believe each session should be unique because… it is!"

—Megan Stickell

About Me

 

Couple in contrasting black and white outfits posing near white fence in countryside setting.
Autumn family photoshoot with warm lighting and fall foliage.
Couple posing together against wooden fencing in a romantic countryside setting at dusk.
Black and white family portrait series in an outdoor natural setting.
Casual family portraits captured against a backdrop of autumn trees and golden sunlight.

I’m a proud Colorado native who was transplanted to the Midwest as a teenager. Moving from the vibrant mountains to quiet fields of corn and soybeans wasn’t exactly what I imagined — but life had its own plan. Who would’ve guessed I’d settle down and build a life in Clinton, Iowa?


Now, I’ve come to love the peaceful countryside, the small-town charm, and the kind-hearted people who surround me. I married my high school sweetheart, Bret, and together we’ve built a full, joyful life with our two wonderful children, Titus and Autumn, and our lovable pack of three big dogs (plus one cat who rules the house).


As a full-time stay-at-home mom, I spend my days juggling love, chaos, and snacks — always taking care of someone. But I knew I needed something just for me — something that lit me up inside. That moment came one Christmas morning when my parents gifted me my very first camera. That gift sparked something big… and Lens Be Friends Photography was born.


The photographer I am today started as a young woman chasing her very first client. This journey hasn’t always been easy. There have been late nights, growing pains, tears, and moments of doubt — but every sacrifice has been worth it. I chose photography not just because it’s a dream, but because it’s a piece of my soul. While it’s a passion and a calling, I’ve also come to understand why photography is often seen as a luxury — it’s a serious investment.


That’s why my mission is to make beautiful photography more accessible. I believe everyone deserves to have their  family’s memories captured — not just on special occasions, but in all the real, raw, wonderful moments in between.


Thank you for being here. I can’t wait to meet you, connect, and create something beautiful together.

Fun Facts!

Vintage-style sequence baton twirling.
Retro-toned photos showing someone practicing moves by a swimming pool.

My nana

My momma

Baton twirler in red and white uniform performs with fire on field at Morrison Mustangs stadium.

Megan

I’m a 3rd-generation majorette.

Baton twirling runs in my blood! 

Do you remember those water and glitter batons when you were a child? Yes? That’s where it all started for me. I introduced FIRE baton twirling in high school and carried that legacy through my junior and senior years (competitions and all!) Even now I still break out my fire baton for special occasions

(4th of July is my favorite.)



Young musicians in formal attire performing in school band with brass instruments.

I used to be the First Chair trumpet player! I have always loved playing the trumpet. I started playing when I was in elementary school and continued playing all the way through high school. I enjoyed the range of sounds that the trumpet could produce. My dad taught me everything he knows about playing the trumpet. He had to endure my terrible practices when I was young, but he became so proud when he heard the beautiful music I could create. It was great to have him as my private teacher at home. His guidance helped me become the best trumpet player I could be, and it definitely paid off!

  Louis Armstrong and my dad were my biggest idol when it came to the trumpet.



School band students with instruments seated at performance stands.




Family time is my favorite time

3 dogs and one cat call me mom as well! If it were possible to adopt every canine companion in need, I'd be the proud owner of 30 tail-wagging friends by now.

I adore camping, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, four-wheeling, and much more. In essence, I enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities! I'm a blend of girly-girl and tomboy. I love getting my nails done but also relish the chance to play in the mud.

Barefoot enthusiast (shoes are overrated)

Toe Talent: Picking anything up with my toes

(I DON'T KNOW IF THAT COMES WITH BEING A MOM Lol!)

A couple walks through a beautiful golden field at sunset as sunlight filters through the trees and tall grass.
Silhouettes of people walking through a golden field at sunset with warm backlighting and soft natural glow.
Person paddleboarding on a lake during a sunny summer day with beachgoers in background.
Two riders on horseback pause in a scenic mountain meadow with snow-capped peaks in the distance.
Person shooting rifle while lying on vehicle hood in grassy mountain landscape.
Group whitewater rafting through rapids in a red inflatable raft.
Proud catch of a small fish by a lake on a cloudy evening.
Building a snowman sequence in winter with dark houses in background.
Close-up portraits of a German Shepherd dog showing alert and noble expressions.
White and black mixed breed dog sitting on grass near water.
Series of close-up shots showing a German Shepherd's facial expressions.
Three candid outdoor photos show a playful family moment with a small group posing on grass near a row of trees.
A series of four selfie photos showing a person in helmet and sunglasses riding an ATV on a wooded trail.