meet amanda
(she/her)
I am a
portrait photographer.
I’ve always been drawn to the real moments in people’s lives.
The way someone laughs when they forget the camera is there. The way families naturally interact with each other. The quiet confidence that shows up once someone finally relaxes. Those are the moments that feel meaningful to me, and they’re the reason authenticity matters so much in my work.
Over the years, I’ve realized that most of my clients don’t actually want to look overly posed or perfect in their photos. They want to look like themselves — just at their best. They want images that feel natural, connected, and true to who they are in this season of life. That’s what I try to create during every session.
A lot of that comes from the way I see the world in my own life.
I’m a wife, a mom, and someone who understands how quickly seasons of life change. My husband is a farmer, our family spends a lot of time outdoors, and some of my favorite moments are the simple ones — muddy shoes at the end of the day, kids laughing uncontrollably, exhausted but happy hugs, long drives, mountain bike races, and all the beautifully imperfect moments in between. Life rarely feels polished in real time, and honestly, I don’t think it’s supposed to. That perspective shapes the way I photograph people.
I want your session to feel relaxed, comfortable, and real.
You do not need to know how to pose. You do not need perfectly behaved kids. You do not need to be “good in front of the camera.” My job is to guide you in a way that feels natural while creating space for genuine connection and personality to show up.
Most clients tell me afterward that the session felt much easier — and a lot more fun — than they expected.
During your session, I’ll give direction when needed, but I’m also paying attention to the moments unfolding naturally around us. I’m watching for the real smiles, the nervous excitement, the confidence that appears halfway through, the tiny interactions you may not even notice happening. That balance of guidance and authenticity is what creates images that feel timeless and personal instead of overly trendy or forced.
Whether I’m photographing seniors, families, couples, newborns, headshots, or branding sessions, my goal is always the same: to create images that look beautiful while still feeling honest.
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Because years from now, I don’t want you to just remember what you looked like.
I want you to remember what this season of life actually felt like.
what people are saying
“Amanda is a very creative and skilled photographer. We had such a good time during our family photo shoot and the pics turned out beautiful! Highly recommended!”
-Julie
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I’m an early morning person through and through. Some of my favorite moments happen before the rest of my family is awake — reading romance novels on my Kobo, working through New York Times puzzles, drinking a really good cup of coffee, and enjoying the quiet before the day begins.
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I notice little things.
The way the sky looks while I’m standing at the bus stop with my son in the morning. Wildflowers growing on the side of the road. The feeling of walking through a new town with no real plan except exploring together.
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Creativity has always been part of who I am, even outside of photography. I love watercolor painting, zen doodling, cozy spaces, and creating an atmosphere that feels calm and welcoming. If I could describe the feeling I love most in one word, it would probably be hygge — comfortable, relaxed, meaningful, and warm.
My perfect day would be simple: being with my family, exploring somewhere new, trying great food, laughing a lot, and ending the night with a board game around the table.
I’m also someone who has lived a lot of different places over the years — including England, Honduras, Connecticut, Tennessee, Maryland, and different parts of Virginia. I think those experiences shaped the way I connect with people. I genuinely enjoy hearing people’s stories and getting to know who they really are beneath the surface.
I tend to connect most with people who are comfortable being themselves. The people who value connection over perfection. The people who care more about authenticity than appearances.
My family would probably describe me as kind and easygoing, and honestly, that’s probably the same atmosphere I try to create during my sessions too.​
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Let’s Connect!
Serving Goochland, Richmond, and Charlottesville, I’m available to travel for on-location shoots, ensuring your session is tailored to you. Contact me today to book your session!