Welcome! I’m Orit Harpaz (pronounced oh-REET), a documentary family and portrait photographer based in Sherman Oaks, California. My first name means “a little light” and my last name means “golden mountain” in Hebrew — a combination that feels fitting for the way I’m drawn to light and honest, meaningful moments. My goal is simple: to create photographs that feel warm, real, and lasting.

As a native Angeleno, I’m constantly inspired by the diversity and energy of Los Angeles. The mix of cultures, languages, and stories fuels my love for photography.

My father had a camera in his hands throughout my childhood, documenting our everyday life. The collection of photos he left us is one of my greatest treasures and shaped the way I see photography — as a way to honor family, memory, and the small moments that become the most meaningful over time. I hope to create that same kind of visual legacy for the families I photograph.

Outside of photography, I love hiking, kayaking, dancing, and making art. I’m also a wallpaper designer and run a creative business called Weirdoh Birds.

My greatest joy is my family — being a mom to my wonderful 22-year-old son and a wife to my husband and best friend of 27 years. They are the heart behind everything I do.

Photo of me by Ari Michelson