welcome to

The                             Journal

Welcome to an expression of creativity: where each frame tells a story, each click captures an inspired moment, and every picture paints a treasured memory. Embark on a journey through visual wedding narratives, intricate photo compositions, heartfelt personal projects, and delightful glimpses into the tapestry of this creative life.

Whether you're a fellow artist seeking inspiration, a couple in search of the perfect storyteller for your special celebration, or simply a soul drawn to the beauty of film photography--please feel welcome to explore, engage, and be inspired by a simply splendid perspective.

Musings of a photographic artist

I’m Marla
Sprinkled throughout this journey are the little joys, moments of inspiration, and snippets of life that add color to our human experience. Join me as we embrace the beauty of imperfect perfection, the magic of a beautiful moment, and the endless possibilities of creativity.

Robin found me through Instagram through one picture (here).  Until earlier this year, I didn’t really understand the power of Instagram in helping clients find photographers, I didn’t even realize people might search via that social media avenue. So even though I am not super active on other social media platforms, I’m intentional about posting to […]

Read More

Marla Cyree of Simply Splendid specializes in film photography in Portland, Oregon as a newborn, family, and wedding photographer.

Read More

When I initially received the inquiry if I’d be interested in traveling to Whidbey Island in the San Juan Islands of Washington to photograph a family on vacation celebrating a golden wedding anniversary, my initial reaction was one of complete joy and excitement. YES! Yes, please and thank you! I had a feeling it was […]

Read More

Mike and Erin live in Colorado, but were recently in Portland for a friend’s wedding with the added intention of putting together details for their own wedding next year! They were absolutely positive that their pictures would be the worst I’ve ever had to take because of their self-professed unphotogenic natures. I laughed, they laughed–but […]

Read More

I recently traveled to Phoenix to visit with my best friend from college and decided to open up a few days/times for sessions. I really love photographing while traveling, the mix of meeting new people in completely different places than I’m used to is so much fun! Phoenix especially has such a completely difference landscape […]

Read More

Browse By Category

WEDDINGS

FAMILIES

BRANDS

EDITORIAL

PERSONAL

S S

Instagram

My relationship with social media is definitely a work in progress, but recent work can be found at:

@SIMPLY.SPLENDID