Jen and Angela, visionaries for Capture a Moment Photography, have known each other for over 20 years. As time has passed, each have found a multitude of experience through college, law school, marriage and families. At every crossing, the loyal camera has always been at their sides.
Capture a Moment Photography is in constant search of those stolen moments. The kind of moments that capture the heart through the lens and are then remembered for years to come in timeless images. They strive in every shoot to photograph that moment, whether it is a stolen smile, a kiss between siblings, a peaceful baby, or true love between two people. When that true moment is captured, it is magical and that is their goal. Jen and Angela love getting to know you and are passionate in creating images that will tell your life story forever.
Capture a Moment Photography believes that these moments are best found in your natural element. We love natural light shoots in your backyard, at a nearby park or even in your own home. We currently specialize in capturing families, newborns, children, high school seniors, expectant moms and small celebrations.
Jen Dera is a passionate professional photographer known for her visually striking and emotionally resonant style. Her work captures not just images, but the genuine moments and connections that make life beautiful.
Jen's creative journey officially began in 2000, shortly after the birth of her first child. What started as a personal passion quickly evolved into a professional pursuit — fueled by countless classes, camera experiments, and a whole lot of creative trial and error.
In 2010, Jen teamed up with her lifelong friend and fellow creative, Angela, to launch Capture a Moment Photography, LLC — a dream built on friendship, artistry, and a whole lot of Starbucks. After nearly 15 inspiring years of co-creating magic behind the lens, Angela officially retired from the studio in March of 2025, leaving behind a legacy of creativity — and a noticeable void in the snack drawer. Known for her uncanny ability to strike up a conversation with absolutely anyone and her unwavering devotion to all things sugary, Angela is deeply missed for both her talent and her sweet presence (pun absolutely intended).
As co-founder, Jen continues to specialize in High School Senior sessions, Children, and Family photography — with seniors being her personal favorite (perhaps because they’re the perfect blend of sass, sentimentality, and just enough attitude to keep things interesting).
Jen’s mission? Simple: deliver a stress-free, personalized photography experience that leaves clients smiling long after the session ends. After enduring the chaos of big-box studios herself, she set out to do better — and for over 14 years, she has. With her thoughtful approach and signature style, Jen ensures that every shoot feels like a breeze, not a burden.
Until 2025, Jen also served as the energetic and ever-resourceful President of the L’Anse Creuse High School Marching Band Boosters, leading a vibrant group of over 200 students and an army of snack-wielding parents. She has since retired from that role, but she’s hardly slowed down — now channeling her heart and time into advocacy for children in foster care.
Outside of the studio, Jen treasures quality time with her family. She’s been happily married to her husband Denny for over 20 years, and together they’ve built a beautifully busy household: Ethan (alongside his wife, Hailey), Dylan (with his wonderful partner, Carly), Peyton, Shelby (engaged to the lovely Elma), Sierra, Kim, Jessica — and countless others who’ve found a home in Jen’s heart through foster care.
Angela Bilen is a sensitive soul with a drive to keep people smiling while capturing moments that last a lifetime.
After Angela graduated from law school and passed the Michigan State Bar in 2004, she began a career as an attorney and soon after, embraced her role as a mother. Throughout it all, Angela always had a trusty camera by her side. Her passion for photography grew, leading her to purchase her first "big girl camera." For her birthday, her husband enrolled her in a photography class at Macomb Community College, and from there, her learning, practicing, and improving never stopped.
In 2010, Angela realized her true passion was in capturing beautiful images of both her children and others. She teamed up with Jen Dera to embark on a fulfilling journey that has allowed her to enjoy her time with loved ones and her clients—many of whom become friends after just one session.
As Co-founder of Capture A Moment Photography, Angela often makes fast friends with the youngest family members and finds ways to help clients feel more at ease in front of the camera. Her goal is to make the entire experience as stress-free as possible, with excellent customer service being the icing on the cake. Angela truly loves photographing children, families, and especially newborns.
In March of 2025, Angela retired from her photography career and her role here at Capture a Moment. When she isn’t behind the camera, Angela continues to practice law, specializing in Estate Planning. For fun, she enjoys working in the yard, boating, and long naps. She is most often found spending time with her loving husband (and middle school sweetheart) and/or doing activities with her three beautiful children: Jonathan, Andrew, and Evelyn.
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Capture a Moment Photography, LLC | 50 Cherry Street | Mount Clemens, MI 48043
The leading luxury High School Senior and Family photography studio serving Metro Detroit, Michigan.
(586) 619-8071
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