Portrait Photography in Richmond, VA
I create natural, flattering portraits in Richmond, Short Pump and Glen Allen, VA: personal portraits, professional headshot-style images, prom, sweet 16 and festival portraits. Sessions are relaxed and guided so you look like yourself on your best day, and your hand-edited photos arrive in a private gallery within 7 days.
Portrait Photography: from $250, 2 hours. Hand-edited photos in a private gallery within 7 days.
Portraits for every reason
A portrait session focuses on one person, or a small group, and the story you want the photos to tell. These are the most common reasons people book one.
Professional and headshot-style portraits
Clean, approachable images for LinkedIn, a website, a speaker bio or a business profile. The goal is a look that is professional without feeling stiff, usually with a couple of background options.
Personal and lifestyle portraits
Photos just for you: a birthday, a new chapter, a fresh haircut or simply wanting good pictures of yourself for once.
Prom and sweet 16
Getting-ready moments, the outfit and a few portraits with friends and family before you head out.
Festival and cultural portraits
Traditional outfits for Diwali or wedding season, or bright, colorful Holi portraits.
You can browse examples in my portraits portfolio.
How I guide a portrait session
Most people say they feel awkward in front of a camera, which is exactly why my portrait sessions are guided. I give clear, simple directions on where to stand, how to angle your shoulders and what to do with your hands, then give you something to think or talk about so your expression is real rather than held.
We start with easy, straightforward frames to warm up, then move to more relaxed and candid shots once you've settled in. I show you a few images on the back of the camera early on, so you can see it's working and stop worrying about it.
I've been behind a camera since 2001 and work mostly in natural light, which gives soft, honest skin tones. For a closer look at why the in-between moments so often become the favorites, read why candid photos matter more.
Portrait locations around Richmond
Pick a location that matches the feeling you want. Urban backdrops read as modern and professional, while greenery reads as soft and personal.
- Brown's Island and the Canal Walk - brick, water and bridges for a city look that suits professional portraits
- Libby Hill Park - a classic Richmond view with plenty of open sky
- Belle Isle - rocks, river and rugged textures for something with more character
- Short Pump Town Center area - convenient for West End and Glen Allen clients who want clean, modern backgrounds
- Your home or office - natural for personal branding, with your own space in the frame
Check current photography rules for any public space before your session. Light matters as much as the location; I usually plan outdoor portraits for the softer light near sunrise or sunset, and explain why in my post on the best time of day for outdoor photos.
Preparing and what you receive
Bring two or three outfits you feel great in, with at least one solid, simple option. For headshots, choose well-fitting tops in colors that flatter your skin tone and avoid tiny patterns that can shimmer on camera. For prom, festival or traditional looks, plan hair, makeup and jewelry before the session so we can use the full time for photos. For headshots, a good night's sleep and lightly moisturized skin do more than heavy makeup, and if you wear glasses, bring a cleaning cloth.
After the session, every image is edited by hand, with gentle skin retouching and balanced color, and delivered in a private online gallery within 7 days. The number of photos depends on the session and how many looks we cover.
To book, message me on WhatsApp or use the contact form and tell me what the portraits are for. Graduating this year? See graduation photography for cap and gown sessions.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a portrait session cost?
Portrait sessions start from $250 for 2 hours. I'll confirm an exact quote once I know the purpose, location and number of outfits.
Can you take professional headshots?
Yes. I photograph headshot-style portraits for LinkedIn, websites and business profiles, on location or in natural light at your home or office.
How many outfits can I bring?
Two or three outfits fit comfortably in a typical session. More looks are possible; mention it when you book so we can plan the time.
Do you photograph prom and sweet 16?
Yes. I can photograph getting-ready moments, solo portraits and photos with friends and family before the event.
When will I get my portraits?
Within 7 days of your session, hand-edited and delivered in a private online gallery.
See the Portraits portfolio
From the journal
Other services
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