My journey with photography began at 14, when my grandfather handed me my first DSLR and took me on a spontaneous adventure through downtown Asheville. At the time, I would have preferred to do almost anything else, but as we explored the city through the lens of a camera, I discovered a passion for capturing fleeting moments. That day, not only did I gain a deeper connection with my grandfather, but I also found a love for photography that has shaped my life ever since.
In 2010, my mother and best friend gifted me my very own DSLR camera, and that was the start of a long road of discovery, experimentation, and growth. I quickly realized that owning a nice camera was just the beginning—becoming a professional required dedication, learning, and practice. Over the years, I’ve invested countless hours mastering my camera and honing my skills in editing and retouching, always striving to bring out the best in every photo.
They say that if you want to know what someone values most, look at what they photograph. For me, photography is about preserving the things we fear losing, the moments we hold dear. My goal with every client is to create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
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"Fantastic job, absolutely love them all!"
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"I'm about to cry real tears, these are so beautiful! Thank you so much!"
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"My pictures with Jillian were absolutely AMAZING. She was very fun and helped me feel confident when taking my pictures. Everything was done in a professional manner and I got my pictures back in no time. I definitely recommend!"
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"Very personable and professional. My boudoir photos turned out amazing!"
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"Always been shy of the camera but Jillian made sure I was comfortable and confident. She had lots of patience and beautiful ideas that gave me memories for life. I told her my vision for my baby announcement and she made it happen - and then some! Definitely recommend getting your photos done by Jillian Merrill Photography!!!"
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"I would most definitely recommend Jillian, especially if taking pictures with littles! She was so patient with my daughter and did everything she could to get her attention & smile. She's also taken maternity pictures for both of my babies and I couldn't be happier with them!🩷🩷"
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"I will always recommend Jillian at Cactus & Clover Photography, my first session with her was in 2023 and 2 years later she still takes the most authentic, raw, and beautiful photos. Watching her grow as a photographer and expand her craft has been a privilege that I’ve been lucky to experience and to have her capture our family as it grows has given us the beautiful gift of savoring the little moments in time as they pass. As long as she’s available, she’s our choice always as our photographer.🤍"
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"10/10 recommend Cactus & Clover photography! Jillian brought my vision of preschool grad pictures for my 5 yr old to life and she turned each pose into beautiful pictures! She was fun to work with and Jillian was so patient. I can’t wait to schedule more sessions."
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"I always will recommend Cactus & Clover Photography. Jillian brought my wedding to life in 2024, and brought my anniversary to life just a year later. She has grown so much as a photographer and anytime someone asks me who I get my photos taken from I will always say her. Thank you for bringing these wonderful moments to life and bringing smiles and joys to others with your work. GET YOUR PHOTOS TAKEN BY THIS WOMAN!!! 🫶"
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"My husband and I LOVED working with Jillian. We were a little nervous mainly because I’m camera shy but she made us feel comfortable and we had so much fun! The location she recommended was great and had such pretty views. Can’t wait for our next adventure"
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"Jillian took the sweetest photos of my daughter and I they were the first photos I’ve ever gotten with my daughter and my first session with Jillian and I loved my experience she is such a great women and is amazing with kiddos of all ages"
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"With 2 crazy little girls, Jillian captured us so effortlessly and the product was amazing. She was able to ensure we all felt comfortable in front of the camera. We love our pictures, thank you so much for the perfect Mother’s Day gift!"
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