About Rikki Ward

Headshot of Rikki Ward, documentary photographer based in Oakland California

Meet Rikki

Rikki Ward studied photojournalism in the film days and has been a photographer for over 20 years. Pre-kids, she used to travel the world and had lots of adventures. Things are different now, but the new adventure is navigating the hyper-speed world of children, watching them grow into people, learning how to make connections in this new community, and finding joy and humor in the absurdity of it all.

As parent of two young kids, she gets how hard it can be to take some time together to just have fun. That is why her photo sessions are an experience that clients don't have to stress about.

Rikki also enjoys good food, baking, music/dancing, and walks around the neighborhood. She currently lives in Oakland, CA with her husband and two daughters.

Documentary family photo session in Oakland California by Rikki Ward.
Rikki Ward family photo
Documentary family photo session in Oakland California by Rikki Ward.
Rikki Ward family
Documentary family photo session in Oakland California by Rikki Ward.
Rikki Ward old polaroid

What makes Rikki different

Photojournalism background

Over 20 years of documentary photo experience and a unique film aesthetic.

Down-to-earth personality

Instantly feel at ease so you can be yourself and actually enjoy the session.

Super easy process

Easily book a free consult call, reserve your date, and everything else is taken care of.

Documentary family photo session in Oakland California by Rikki Ward.
“Life can be heavy and parenthood can be hard but it is also hilarious and sweet and mind bogglingly overflowing with love. All of these things are true and OK to feel! So bring me all the feelings and I’ll show you all the love.”
— Rikki Ward

What clients are saying…

  • “I felt so comfortable around Rikki, and she was so understanding and had the best energy. She took photos in a time efficient manner and did a great job of handling the situation. But the best part of all - our photos are absolutely gorgeous! We constantly get compliments on them, and proudly display them around our home, as do our family members.”

    - Vanessa F. in San Francisco, CA

  • "In three and a half years, nobody has been able to take photos of our family as amazing as the ones Rikki was able to capture! She was calm, patient, completely went with the flow (a very important piece of photographing little ones) and the results are amazing! She'll definitely be our go to photographer from now on! Can't say enough positive things!"

    - K. B. in San Francisco, CA

  • "I would recommend Rikki in a heartbeat to anyone needing a family or event photographer. She was calm and patient and put us all at ease (and none of us really loves posing for the camera so that is saying something!). Rikki made sure that she understood what we were looking for and she also gave us other great ideas that we hadn't considered. I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon her and will absolutely be calling her in the future."

    - Gina S. in San Francisco, CA

  • "To photograph a family is a feat in itself. Rikki is incredibly patient and able to maneuver a family to get some incredible family photos with a 1 year old and 4 year old. Highly recommend!"

    - Carol C. in Berkeley, CA