meet Rivalee

Rivalee Stokes

Associate Photographer 

I grew up with photography in my blood—both of my parents have been full-time photographers my entire life. From an early age, I was tagging along to weddings, carrying light stands, organizing memory cards, and learning how to capture real emotion. Photography has always felt like a natural language to me—one built on connection, story, and light.

Today, I’m proud to serve as an Associate Photographer for James Stokes & Co., where I photograph weddings, portraits, and brand stories across Wisconsin and the Midwest. I love documenting people as they really are—laughing, moving, feeling—while giving relaxed direction that helps them shine naturally. Whether I’m capturing quiet portraits or the rush of a wedding day, I show up prepared, calm under pressure, and fully invested in each client’s experience.

Outside of photography, I’m a competitive discus thrower who never skips her pre-workout. It’s my ritual—equal parts fuel and focus—before I head into a training session, a creative shoot, or even a long editing day. I’m a creative by nature and a future interior designer in the making, inspired by beautiful spaces, meaningful people, creatine, and long drives through wide-open places. Utah has my heart, and I hope to one day build a life surrounded by mountains, art, and adrenaline.

Fun Fact: I photographed my first wedding with my dad, James, when I was just 14. I still get the same rush every time I click the shutter—like that first sip of pre-workout before the throw—pure energy knowing I’m preserving a moment someone will treasure forever.