Hello!

I'm Meg Tyo, a photographer and licensed social worker based in Rochester, NY. When I'm not behind the camera, you can find me working as a mental health therapist and a social work research interventionist.

You may be wondering how a photographer became a social worker, or what a social worker is doing with a photography business. Fair question! In reality, the two are not so far apart. Whether I meet you as your therapist or as your photographer, my job is to understand and honor your story.

The Story of Sweet Home Photography

I fell in love with photography in high school and began college intending to make it my career. Around that time, my grandfather began facing challenges that often come with aging, and the impact on him and our family made me realize that art wasn’t my only passion. I added a double minor in psychology and gerontology, which set me on the path to earning my LMSW—and ultimately, my clinical licensure.

When my Grampa passed, photography became more than a creative outlet. Taking and revisiting photographs helped me process my grief, and I began to see how images could hold stories, preserve connections, and bring comfort in times of change.

That experience became the heart of Sweet Home Photography. I founded the business to create space for older adults and their families to feel truly seen, heard, and celebrated. My work combines the empathy and insight of a social worker with the artistry of a photographer, helping people capture meaningful portraits, preserve family legacies, and navigate life’s transitions. Every session is more than just taking pictures—it’s about honoring stories, relationships, and the moments that matter most.

With more than a decade in social work, I’ve had the privilege of bearing witness to the stories of people from all walks of life. Time and again, I’m amazed by the creativity and resilience of the human spirit—and inspired to reflect that spirit through authentic, meaningful images.

Social work experience includes:

In-home support
Skilled nursing care for individuals with dementia
SNF rehab
Surgical recovery and hospital discharge planning
Emergency medicine and critical care
Oncology
Chronic illness
Mental health

This foundation in social work shapes the way I approach photography—guiding my choices behind the lens, deepening my connection with clients, and allowing me to capture not just how people look, but who they are.