In Kinship: Creative Reciprocity

Since 2021, Alyssa Bardy has been behind the lens of nearly every Commanda Collective shoot. Her eye, her warmth, her way of seeing us—it’s become part of the fabric of our brand. We were so grateful the timing aligned for her to capture our New Roots collection and this re-launch of our website.

Something meaningful to name: we’ve never exchanged money for Alyssa’s photography. That was a mutual decision. Instead, we work in reciprocity—exchanging time, energy, beadwork, and shared creative spirit. It’s a small but powerful way we move away from transactional thinking and into something more relational.

This partnership is rooted in trust. In generosity. In care.

Alyssa has always met us exactly where we are—whether we’re wandering on frozen beaches in tank tops to get the perfect shot for the Mermaid Collection, or swapping earrings between cedar branches during a whirlwind shoot day. Every session feels easy. Aligned. We’ve never once asked for a re-edit.

She’s met almost our entire family, and the shoot for the Archive Collection—with our great aunt and cousins—truly felt like ceremony.

She understands the world we’re trying to create. And she captures it with clarity and softness. We are literally her biggest fans, and writing this blog post doesn’t even begin to hold the depth of our gratitude.

This collaboration reminds us what’s possible when people come together with shared values and open hearts. Commanda Collective wouldn’t be the same without Alyssa’s vision behind the camera.

You can explore more of her work at @alyssabardy

Chi miigwech, Alyssa—for your spirit, your artistry, and the ways you’ve helped us feel seen.