Behind the lens

Hey, I'm Kaiden.

San Diego photographer, content creator, and SDSU graduate with experience in branded campaigns and daily creative production.

Kaiden Mertzel on a rocky shoreline in Hawaii

Get to know me

A little
about me.

My sister introduced me to photography more than ten years ago. What started with a camera became a way to connect with people, explore new places, and notice the moments I wanted to hold onto.

Today, my work spans weddings, graduations, portraits, and short-form content. I support daily creative production with Daily Original Vids and bring two years of brand ambassador experience with TurboTax and Credit Karma. Across those settings, I combine a photographer's attention to detail with an organized, collaborative approach to production.

01

What draws me to photography

I remember how it felt to see a photograph of myself that I really liked. I want to give other people that same feeling: a photo they're excited to share and happy to come back to.

02

What it's like to work with me

You don't need to know how to pose. I'll help with that, keep things moving, and give you room to be yourself. The goal is to make the shoot feel comfortable so your personality comes through.

03

When the camera's down

You'll usually find me outside: snowboarding, playing tennis, or spending time with friends. Those experiences are a big part of what keeps me curious and gives me new ideas to create.

Let's plan your shoot