Central Florida photographer, Athena Arnold

meet

Athena

cinematic

storyteller

Hey, I’m Athena — your Central Florida photographer for wild love, loud music, and real moments.

I capture cinematic, story-driven moments for couples and creatives across Lakeland, Tampa, and beyond. I specialize in adventure elopements, couple's sessions, branding, and concert photography.



Lakeland Florida couples photographer with a focus on elopements, engagements, and capturing love stories.

Based in Florida, Born in Maryland, Ready for

Adventure

I was born and raised in Annapolis, Maryland, where my passion for storytelling took root—growing up on film sets and spending my free time photographing concerts, portraits, brands, and couples deepened that love.


Since then, life has led me on incredible journeys—from traveling across the U.S. and beyond to capturing unforgettable moments while sailing, which remains my all-time favorite hobby. Each adventure has shaped how I see the world and how I approach my photography—with curiosity, honesty, and heart. I’ve fallen in love with how every place tells its own unique story.


Now, I’m based in Lakeland and Tampa, Florida, soaking up the sunshine and excited to work with couples, creatives, and musicians across Central Florida.


Whether you’re planning something local or far from home, I’m always ready for the next adventure.



My photography style

Central Florida Concert photographer.

At my core, I’m a storyteller. I’ve always believed that everyone and everything has a story worth capturing, and it brings me so much joy to help people see theirs through photos.


I grew up immersed in the world of storytelling—spending my childhood on both independent and studio film sets, including working with HBO. That early experience gave me a deep appreciation for mood, emotion, and the power of visuals to move people.


Photography was the creative outlet that truly clicked for me. It’s where all my creative passions converge—telling authentic, raw stories through a cinematic lens. Whether I’m shooting a couples session, a brand session, portraits, an adventurous elopement, or an electrifying concert, my goal is to capture moments that feel genuine, alive, and unforgettable.


 

 

 

Athena Arnold couple, concert, brand, and lifestyle photographer based in Lakeland Florida.

the human behind the camera

Travel photographer Athena Arnold at reindeer farm in Alaska.

If you spend more than five minutes with me, you’ll quickly realize I’m a full-time goofball who lives for laughter, big smiles, and quoting movies like it’s a second language. I feel most alive when I’m outside—whether it’s soaking up the sun, dancing in the rain, or chasing the wind.


I get excited over the little things, and I truly believe the best memories come with a little dirt on your boots, salt in your hair, or the wild rush of fresh air on your face. Helping people feel comfortable, joyful, and authentically themselves is what I’m all about—both in life and in behind the camera.


Florida travel and adventure photographer Athena Arnold sailing in the Atlantic ocean.

One of my greatest passions is sailing. There’s something magical about being out on the water—the sway of the boat beneath your feet, the splash of the ocean, and that endless horizon calling you forward. Sailing feeds my sense of adventure and creativity, and some of my most unforgettable moments have happened on the open sea.


I am the helmsman of a 38' Sailboat that races in the Chesapeake Bay and in the ocean. the furthest I've raced to is to Bermuda! I even used to be a professional sailmaker for North Sails.


Traveling has also played a huge role in shaping who I am. From coast to coast and beyond the U.S., I’ve explored countless places, each with its own stories and beauty. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the unique vibe every location brings to a shoot, and I love bringing that energy into my work.


Some of my favorite places I've been to are Greece, Alaska, and Costa Rica!






 

 

 

 

 

Travel photographer Athena Arnold surfing down a wave in Costa Rica.

My greatest adventure

Behind every story I capture, there’s a story I live—and mine wouldn’t be complete without Jacob, the love of my life. Whether we’re exploring new places, sharing quiet moments, or planning our next adventure, he’s my biggest supporter and constant partner. Having someone to share this journey with makes every moment—even the messy, real ones—feel all the more special.


We actually met back in my hometown of Annapolis, and funny enough, it all started at a bar! After our second date, we realized we had actually crossed paths before—at a mutual friend’s house earlier that year. That little twist just felt like fate nudging us closer, confirming that we were meant to be. Jacob isn’t just my love—he’s my best friend, and I wouldn’t want to navigate this life without him by my side.


 

 

 

Athena Arnold standing over a frozen lake on 35mm film in Alaska.

when i'm not taking pictures, you can find me...

Whether you’re planning an adventurous elopement, a couples session that feels like a movie scene, a epic concert, or a bold brand shoot—I’d be honored to tell your story with heart, honesty, and a touch of cinematic flair.


I’m currently booking in Lakeland, Tampa, and across Central Florida—but if your adventure takes us beyond, I’m always down to hit the road (or the ocean). Let’s dream something up together.


Follow me on Instagram
@athenaarnoldphoto