California Storytelling Photographer
A WHOLE DAMN VIBE
STORYTELLING photographer for people who crave connection, not perfection.
YOUR NEW ADVENTURE HYPE GIRL YOU NEVER KNEW YOU NEEDED, UNTIL NOW
Telling your story through my lens
I'm not here for perfect-I'm here for real-the raw, the intimate, the hold-me-closer kind of love.
I am inspired by human connection and natures beauty. I thrive in the outdoors, but most importantly connecting with amazing people, who too, share the same squeals and smiles that I do, from rewarding views. I'm up for any and every adventure and want to tell your story, in an effortless and authentic way, while being surrounded by the most amazing landscapes that nature has to offer!
Ready to feel something real ➙
100%
CLIENT SATISFACTION
2008
NDP ESTABLISHED
800K
IMAGES DELIVERED
1.2m
CUPS OF COFFEE
Hey, I'm Nickole!
HERE'S A QUICK LITTLE INTRO FOR YA
Storyteller. Boudoir hype-girl. Newborn baby whisperer.
Also? Proud Ridgecrest, CA local, wife of 24+ years (to my ride-or-die), and mom to three incredible humans—21, 16, and 14. My husband gifted me the stay-at-home mom life back in 2007, and I’ve been soaking up all the chaos, carpool karaoke, and that shot of espresso ever since.
I’m a little country, a little Jesus, a little iced latte with a whole lotta soul.
Catch me crying during worship, two-stepping in the kitchen to 90s hip hop, and laughing way too loud at my own jokes (because someone’s gotta).
The outdoors...has my whole heart.
Sunshine, bonfires, barefoot moments—that’s my jam.
So how’d this photography thing happen?
Honestly, it started as a side hustle and turned into a front-row seat to the best moments of people’s lives. Real connections, real emotion, real magic. That’s the good stuff—and I can’t get enough.
If you're dreaming of photos that feel like you—whether that’s cozy newborn snuggles, bold and beautiful boudoir, or wild & free family chaos—I’m your girl. We’ll laugh, we’ll dance, and we’ll create something that makes your heart skip a beat every time you see it.
Because around here, we don’t do stiff and awkward.
We do soul-stirring, joy-filled, and full-of-life.
Let’s make something unforgettable.
A great photograph
is one that fully expresses what YOU'RE FEELING, in that one single moment.
Why NDP?
I'm a photographer on a mission to create meaningful imagery through genuine connection, authentic interactions and capturing the moments that often go unseen.
If you're interested in my work you likely understand the chaos that often time comes with family photos. You just might appreciate the real and raw moments over the "everybody smile at me" photos. I'd bet that in your eyes, those messy moments are just as beautiful as the perfectly posed. In fact, better!
If so, I just might be the photographer for you!
Specializing in lifestyle portraits, boudoir, and newborns surrounded by the beauty of the desert in southern ca.
Click below to learn more ⤸
Storyteller
FAMILIES, MOTHERHOOD, KIDS, & COUPLES
Babies
NEWBORNS, MILESTONES, & ONE YEAR
Portraits
SENIORS, COLLEGE, HEADSHOTS, BRANDING
"Nickole is an experience"
"Nickole is so much more than a person you hire to take your pictures. she is an experience! my friends and family could not stop raving about the full service she provided and how wonderfully she worked with my wedding planner to make photographing a seamless part of our big day. my professional experience and friendship with Nickole Drake will be ongoing forever, as I will hire her for all family photos in the future!"
On trail or off,
let's explore the world around us and I'll do the documenting.
Remember, a little dirt never hurt.
The sweetest love...
KAREN P.
✩✩✩✩✩
From the moment we walked into the studio we felt so welcomed and totally comfortable! We were blown away by all the props, clothing & accessories. She even had everything set out & arranged by the time we arrived! What impressed us most was how patient she was with our newborn baby. We kicked back and relaxed as she took care of everything, I mean EVERYTHING...From feeding, to burping, to changing a diapers! She’s literally a BABY WHISPERER & really passionate about what she does!
This is my process:
I. INQUIRE
Send in an official inquiry for your session and I'll send you detailed pricing and information. I'd love to hear a little bit of your vision in the initial inquiry. This helps me assure I am a good fit for you!
2. BOOK
Booking is done online where you can see detailed session info, pricing, and availability. To reserve a date on my calendar, a contract must be signed and a retainer paid as well.
3. PLAN
Once you've booked, you will receive an NDP Session Prep Guide that will help you every step of the way. This will include my favorite colors to shoot, and wardrobe recommendations and tips from my experience as a photographer who has seen a lot over the years.
4. SHOOT
We'll take advantage of the beautiful golden hour where the fun begins! I have lots of experience (16+ years) in coaching you to bring out your individual personalities and relationships. this is my favorite part...capturing your story!
5. VIEW
No more than four weeks after the session, your fully edited gallery will be delivered and ready for viewing and download. From there, you will be able to relive your memories from that day, any time you please.
Let's get social!
Nickole Drake is a licensed professional photographer based in Ridgecrest, CA with 16+ years of experience in the industry.
NDP offers lifestyle sessions for families, seniors, & kids as well as indoor studio sessions for Newborn and Boudoir Sessions.
We also offer exclusively designed Seasonal Mini Sessions, not offered anywhere else!