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Sentimental Senior and Family Photographer based in Glen Allen, VA

meet laura

In almost 5 years of specializing in high school senior photography, I’ve come to learn a few things. I don’t claim to be an expert for all senior photographers, but I do know MY clients and the type of experience they crave. I’ve been blessed at how much this side of my business has grown! Here’s what I can tell you:

My moms (and Dads) are sentimental. They get teary during the session itself and mostly likely need tissues during their gallery reveal. I can totally relate.

My seniors are super-duper enthusiastic about their session! They often email or text me leading up to the day with loads of exclamation points and excitement. Most have never been professionally photographed and may be a bit nervous. But 100% of them have walked away smiling and more confident. Score!

senior, richmond, glen allen, virginia, laura matthews, classic

They want digital images. Plain and simple, like it or not, we live in a digital world with social media as the hub of teen friendships. They want the freedom of showing off their images when and where they please. That’s why my sessions always include digitals!

They also want the good stuff. Wall portraits, albums, image boxes, announcements, and more are treasures of this special time period. They want those images up on their walls and in their hands, not the drug store prints. Parents, this is the time to splurge a bit on heirloom-quality products. Senior portraits will stay up in your home for a very long time, at least until you pass them down or your child gets married!

Natural retouching. I know this is personal preference, but I do get asked often about retouching. Most of the time it’s prefaced by “A friend of mine went to a photographer who made them look like a plastic doll and I did not like her photos at all.” This is one of the reasons why I use a VERY light hand when retouching. My retouching consists of removing obvious blemishes and smoothing uneven skin tones if needed. I will not lighten your eyes, adjust your hairline, or remove naturally wispy hairs. Why? Because that’s not you and it’s unnatural! Over-retouching is one reason why women have body image issues in the first place, right?

Here’s a quick example: On the left is my natural edit of Evan with only one tiny blemish removal. The edit on the right isn’t realistic in my opinion.  Evan is absolutely beautiful and perfect just as she is! I asked my eleven year old son his thoughts and his response was, “Mommy, I think you need to tone it down a bit on the right photo.” SEE?

Seniors need approval and praise. In a world of so much judgment, they need somewhere outside of their peer circle to know they are accepted and appreciated. I hope I’m one of these places for my clients and I hope they know how much I appreciate them!

senior, glen allen, rustic, country, portraits, laura matthews, photos

Finally, if you haven’t booked your senior session, it’s time to get on it! I have only FOUR dates remaining for 2017 and already taking a waiting list for spring 2018. Ready? Contact me here!

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"The photos definitely represent the best version of myself and give me a great boost of confidence..."

-Abigail, LMP Senior

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-Beth, Family Client and Mom to two LMP Seniors

" Laura was easy to work with, flexible, and so artistic. Working with her was a great experience..."

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-Amanda, Stepmom to LMP Senior, Ayrin

" I hope I get to work with you again someday. You are truly talented..."

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"Laura went out of her way to make sure my daughter felt comfortable and to ensure we captured this milestone perfectly. Our photo gallery was exquisite and delivered to us so quickly..."

-Andrea, LMP Senior Mom

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