Hi, I'm Joyce.

a documentary photographer in Northern California


Telling stories is a way of seeing the world. 

As an artist, photojournalist, storyteller and educator, I’ve found my true passion in capturing the beauty and complexity of real-life moments. Whether I'm shooting a portrait session or a wedding, I believe that family is at the heart of everything I envision. As a storyteller, I strive to create memorable visual stories that capture the essence of people's lives and relationships.


What I love most about photography is its ability to convey emotions and memories through small, wordless moments, an image. I believe that these moments carry the most power, and I aspire to capture them in my photographs.


I currently reside in Northern California, splitting my time between Mendocino and San Francisco. I'm always exploring new locations, and I'm excited to travel the world to capture the stories of families. 


My 15+ years of experience in the UX Design creative industry and the marketing design world of technology has given me a creative perspective on photography as a technical art form.

The Ethereal Series

My personal project “The Ethereal Series” delves into three themes. “Ethereal Beauty: Women in Transition” captures the moments when women prepare for their journey into marriage and motherhood. “Ethereal Journey: Porch Series” portrays people within their unique environments, a project that emerged during the pandemic.


Currently, I am exploring elders in their natural settings, documenting the rituals that are an integral part of the "Ethereal Spirit: Elder Wisdom.” Together, these themes explore diverse experiences offering insights into the complexities of human connection and heritage.

email: joyce@jperlmanphotography.com •  cell/text: 650-867-2013

Follow me on Instagram


@jperlman_photography