Get to know the photographer

Hi, I’m Larissa Gillis—your wedding, family, senior, newborn and milestone photographer here at East River Pines Photography in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

I’ve been photographing families and special events in Sioux Falls, SD and the surrounding area since 2011, and over the years, my love for photography has only deepened—especially as I’ve walked through motherhood myself. My little girl is nearly grown now, and looking back on the photographs I’ve taken of her through the years, I’m reminded of just how much those everyday moments truly mean. I’ll always cherish having captured her story, season by season—and I’d love the chance to do the same for you.

Motherhood has stretched me, changed me, and ultimately become the most rewarding part of my life. It’s what fuels the way I approach each session: with patience, presence, and a deep understanding of how quickly it all moves. Photography, for me, is a way to hold onto the little things—the way your child lights up when they run into your arms, the quiet connection between siblings, or the laughter that erupts from just being together. These are the moments that matter.

When we work together, we won’t stress about the clock or whether your kids are on their best behavior. We’ll focus on how your family plays, loves, and moves together in real life—because that’s what you’ll want to remember. My goal is to give you a laid-back, memorable experience that feels just as special as the photographs we create.