I was gifted a pink and purple 110 camera from my Mama in the early 1980's. Bless her heart for developing all that film! Decades later, while working as a registered nurse, I adorned my hospital locker with photos I'd taken of my own family. This sparked interest in my photography talent and an unexpected career began in 2009. Over the years, I've photographed many genres, but my love of milestone portraits has been my favorite to capture. I create warm, colorful images that are typically flooded with natural light. I'm a big fan of gentle breezes and laughter. My goal is to capture my clients the way I do my own family... with my whole heart.
My life revolves around my husband, Tim, and our son, Noah. We share our Glen Allen home with 3 spoiled labs, Annie, Wrangler, and Willys, and a silly flock of chickens. When we're not hard at work, you can find us at church, our favorite Mexican spot, at a racetrack, or traveling in our RV. We spend a lot of time supporting our son who is a regional short track race car driver!
I cannot wait to work with you!
...with my whole heart.
My Photography Story
1 Peter 4:10
I've donated thousands of hours to various causes including Lab Rescue, Medical Reserve Corps, National Brain Tumor Society, Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, and Night to Shine!
SERVICE
I'm a graduate of Randolph-Macon College with a BA in psychology and sociology, a Cum Laude graduate of Bon Secours Memorial School of Nursing, and completed my BSN at WGU in 2022 with honors. I've been a Registered Nurse for 20 years. Although photography is my full time career, I'm proof you can have more than one passion!
EDUCATION
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
Faith
My Values
Tim and I were married in August 2001 after many years of dating during my college and his apprenticeship years. Tim is a railroad signal maintainer and a Journeyman Electrician by trade.
We call rural Glen Allen, VA our home on a private "compound" next to Tim's family. We are surrounded by gardens, chickens, tractors, and trees. When we're not at home, you can find us at church, watching live music, our favorite Mexican spot, or at a race track.
LIFE with THE MATTHEWS
Our Family
Our chicken coop is named after my husband's mother who always wanted to raise chickens, but sadly passed away from a brain tumor in 2018. Our heritage breed girls are named after our female relatives and make the BEST breakfast!
In 2020 our son Noah began racing competitively. He began in karts at local dirt and asphalt tracks and now races a mini cup car at short tracks in the Mid-Atlantic. We spend a great deal of time in our race shop and have expanded to a two car team with our nephew as our newest driver.
Lulu's Roost
MATTHEWS RACING
Our lab pack keeps us laughing daily. Dogs have always been a huge part of our life. We've had the privilege of fostering and helping several dozen homeless labs find their forever homes.
AnnIE, WRANGLER, & WILLYS
Renee, Family Client and LMP Senior Mom x2
Once again Laura knocked it out of the park with our family photos!! She has been our trusted family photographer for many years and her work is always stunning!! We would highly recommend her!!!
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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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