Expertise.com
2024

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Best Portrait Photographers in Cleveland

Our Recommended Top 19

We did the research for you!

  • Licensing
  • User Reviews
  • Mystery Shopping Calls

Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Cleveland Portrait Photographers on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

161

Reviewed

104

Curated

19

Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

Website
Lakewood, OH 44107

Why choose this provider?

I Heart Life Photography is a modern boutique wedding and portrait photography studio in Cleveland, Ohio. I Heart Life Photography specialties include weddings, family portraits, professional headshots, and personal branding photography. As a full service photography company, I Heart Life Photography also provides a variety of fine art prints and wall art. Valerie Gage, owner and the artist, has an authentic and vibrant photographic style to capture clients' moments. Her goal is to give her clients the boutique photo experience from start to finish.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (13)

Website
3335 Marmore Avenue, Parma, OH 44134
  • Maternity
  • Baby
  • Newborn
  • Family
  • Lifestyle

Why choose this provider?

TAM Photography is a studio owned by a compassionate photographer near Cleveland with years of experience taking photos of newborns, babies, and families. Owner Teri Tam offers hourly rates for taking digital photos at children's birthdays, family milestones, births, and other special occasions. Ms. Tam provides a digital download of all the photos taken in each session for customers to choose from. Customers can also purchase prints and canvases right from the digital link sent by TAM Photography.

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Aurora, OH 44202

Why choose this provider?

Ashley Edwards Photography, LLC, offers portraiture services for residents of the Cleveland area and nearby communities. Edwards is a Qualified Newborn Photographer with the Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI) and handles newborn portrait sessions in her studio. She holds an APNPI safety training certificate and assists newborns in posing safely before the cameras. In addition, Edwards provides photography services for moms-to-be, high school seniors, children, professional headshots, and baby milestones such as first birthday smash and splash sessions.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (30)
Google
5.0 / 5 (18)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Medina, OH 44256

Why choose this provider?

Art Goans Photography is a Medina-based business offering portrait photography to customers across Northeast Ohio. Photographer Art Goans excels at shooting lifestyle portraits of high school seniors, moms-to-be, and newly engaged couples. Typically held in an outdoor location, his portrait sessions place an emphasis on candid, unposed photographs that give off a moody or edgy vibe. Goans has a decade of experience in photography. His other services include elopement and intimate wedding photography, and he welcomes destination bookings.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0

Website
33220 Station St, Solon, OH 44139

Why choose this provider?

Lori Mason Photography, established in 2013 in Solon, Ohio, offers portraiture and photography services for individuals, couples, and families in the Greater Cleveland area. Ms. Mason is an internationally published, award-winning photographer who strives to provide a customized and personalized session to every client. The business is fully licensed and insured, and Ms. Mason is certified in her field. Several packages are available based on price and number of images desired.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (24)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (10)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Aurora, OH 44040

Why choose this provider?

Lavar Elliott Photography is a portrait photography specialist in Gates Mills, Ohio. Lavar Elliott was introduced to the photography world by his father who is a photographer and taught Lavar the basics, tricks, and techniques in photography. He has evolved into an expert photographer and now holds more than four years of experience in this field. Lavar specializes in headshots, portraits, and events photography. Lavar Elliott Photography is proud to have won the Thumbtack’s Best of 2015 and Best of 2016 awards.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (4)

Website
209 Park Avenue, Amherst, OH 44001

Why choose this provider?

Kathy Rogers Photography is a portrait photographer serving Cleveland and nearby areas. Kathy and her family have been residents of Northeast Ohio for more than 15 years. She specializes in maternity, newborn, kids, and family photoshoots and captures spontaneous and natural moments. She aims to capture images of a wide variety of emotions and dynamics in different relationships. There are offered sessions for newborns, milestones, cake smashes, and seniors. Kathy conducts occasional, once-a-month mini-session specials with varying locations and themes.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0
Facebook
4.0 / 5 (65)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
1.3
Responsiveness
Friendliness
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Amanda Theresa Photography logo

Amanda Theresa Photography

Website
114 Pine Hollow Circle, Chardon, OH 44024

Why choose this provider?

Amanda Theresa Photography offers services for senior portraits, headshots, elopement and wedding portraits, maternity portraits, and lifestyle portraits to clients in Cleveland, Chardon, and the rest of the surrounding Ohio area. Each package is customized to suit the client's needs. Photographer Amanda also provides photography services for online businesses and physical stores. The services include social media management, content creation posted directly on the client's blog, product photography, and business headshots with the final images delivered through an online gallery.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (12)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (6)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Cleveland, OH 44111

Why choose this provider?

Dale McDonald Photographer is a portrait photography studio in Cleveland, Ohio. Dale McDonald partnered with a 30-year photojournalist veteran, David Petkiewicz of Peak Moments Photography. They specialize in weddings, high school senior portraits, commercial events and product photography, engagement photos, couples, family and newborn portraits. Dale McDonald is a 2014-2016 CCA Corporate Event Photographer of the Year.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
1488 Timber Trail, Hudson, OH 44236

Why choose this provider?

Based in Hudson, OH, Justin Foster Photography specializes in senior portraits that break the mold. With a focus on unique locations, high-fashion looks, and interest-based action shots, Justin is able to capture your senior in a way that feels true to their personality. Exceptional editing techniques create a refined, final product that will stand out both on the walls of your home and your senior's social media. Packages range from single to multi-location, multi-day shoots and can be personalized to fit your needs and budget. Let's tell your senior's story!

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (7)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Cleveland, OH 44126

Why choose this provider?

Visage Portrait Design Inc. is a portrait photography enterprise in Cleveland, Ohio that has been preserving memories since 1992. The principal photographer grew her passion in photography at Ohio University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography. They specialize in families, babies, little kids, and big kid photography. Visage Portrait Design also offers printed cards for all occasions.

Website
Cleveland, OH 44114

Why choose this provider?

James Douglas Studio is a portrait photography studio in Cleveland, Ohio. In 2009, James Douglas opened his first studio in downtown Manhattan focusing on advertising and fashion work. Then, he eventually transferred to Cleveland. He has collaborated with ESPN, Target, H&M, Unilever, AXE and Comedy Central. A few of his clients include Cleveland Clinic, American Heart Association, MOEN, Palmer Holland, P & G, Fresh Brewed Tees, Sherwin-Williams, and Progressive, Cleveland Browns. He has also worked with Oakley, K2, Fitness Magazine, Patagonia, Ducati, Ogilvy and Mather, Fantasy Draft, Gizmodo, The North Face, Powder, Cleveland Cavalier, Food Network, Oh! Lottery, Ski Mag.com, The New York Magazine, and Transworld Snowboarding.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (42)

Website
Chesterland, OH 44026

Why choose this provider?

Located in Chesterland, Ohio, Rustic Light Photography was founded in 2014 to provide clients in the Cleveland metro area with free-spirited, organic images of their special moments. The award-winning studio specializes in portrait photography, weddings, family, and boudoir. Photographers Colleen and Amanda express their passion for photographing every form of love, capturing spontaneous big and little moments through their lenses. Bookings are made through their website's contact page. The studio accepts all forms of payment.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (17)

Website
Willowick, OH 44095

Why choose this provider?

Left of Center Photography is a photo studio in Willowick, Ohio. They specialize in weddings, high school seniors, portraits, beautiful themes, and maternity and newborn photography. They have investment packages clients can choose from. The photographs are usually taken by the company owner alone to maintain the pictures’ consistency and quality. Left of Center Photography photo shoots can transpire in the studio, at client’s homes, and other venues.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (1)

Website
Cleveland, OH 44113

Why choose this provider?

Stata Productions is a full-service portrait photography studio in Cleveland, Ohio that has been documenting and preserving memories for over 25 years. They photograph people, things, and places. Stata Productions can take shoots for professional portraits in their studio or as complex as a person on the job in a factory. They work to show off the customer’s buildings, their interiors, and the grounds in their best light.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (8)
Google
5.0 / 5 (5)

Website
Strongsville, OH 44136

Why choose this provider?

Thomas Cooke Photography is a portrait photography studio in Strongsville, Ohio with a mission for “Creating memories one image at a time.” They specialize in senior high school portraits. They offer an array of styles such as portfolio, studio style, outdoor style, your stuff style, fashion stuff style and extreme style. Thomas Cooke offers a lifetime guarantee on all of their photographic and press printed products.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (5)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2570 Superior Avenue Suite 300, Cleveland, OH 44114
  • milestone photography
  • Head shots
  • Commercial
  • Glamour
  • Photography
  • Lifestyle
  • Professional Headshots
  • Dance photographer
  • Couples
  • Photography Agency,
  • Fine art
  • Documentary
  • Engagement photographer

Why choose this provider?

Capture Style Photography serves the residents of Cleveland. It offers a portrait photography package that includes professional hair and makeup services and access to Rent The Runway for two outfits. After the photoshoot, the studio also sets up a reveal appointment where clients can choose images and decide on albums and prints. In addition, it handles headshots, portfolio images for professionals, branding, editorial, and modeling. Capture Style Photography uses digital as well as 35mm and 120mm film cameras.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9
Google
4.9 / 5 (17)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
MilliVee Photography logo

MilliVee Photography

Website
Cleveland, OH 44101
  • Beauty Headshots
  • Engagement
  • Maternity Portraits
  • motherhood photographer
  • Photography
  • High School senior portraits
  • Wedding Photographer
  • senior photographer
  • Branding
  • Maternity
  • Family Photography
  • Glamour
  • maternity photographer
  • Dance photographer
  • Couples
  • Fine art
  • Headshot Photography
  • Portrait Photography
  • Headshots
  • High school seniors
  • Engagement photographer
  • Documentary
  • couture
  • princess couture
  • fairytale photoshoot
  • child portraits
  • Business Portraits
  • Senior Portraits

Why choose this provider?

MilliVee Fine Art Imagery is a photography studio serving clients in Cleveland and the surrounding areas. Studio owner Kayla is a professional photographer offering portrait photography sessions that aim to empower women. She provides a photo sequence guide, wardrobes, and pre-session consultations or styling appointments. Kayla also offers boudoir photography sessions for women and glamor portraits for children, both promoting body acceptance and self-worth. She offers a variety of portrait sessions for women, children, families, graduating seniors, and business headshots both in studio and outdoor.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (9)

Website
600 Superior Ave. E. Suit 1300, Cleveland, OH 44114

Why choose this provider?

Cleveland-based studio Anytime Picture offers a broad range of portrait photography services. Its portrait photographers offer graduation, family, child, and boudoir portrait services, as well as headshots and fashion photo sessions. Clients can enlist the help of its professional team when choosing outfits, accessories, photo props, and locations. Other services provided by Anytime Picture include real estate, corporate, and food photography, as well as extensive wedding and engagement photography services.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Introduction

    Portrait photography can be the perfect way to capture special moments for adults, children, couples, and families. It's a popular option for occasions, such as graduations, weddings, birthdays, and various milestones reached throughout childhood. However, you don't need a special reason to get a portrait professionally done, as there are many photographers eager to work with new clients at a reasonable rate.

    Professional portrait photography takes years of practice, and the right photographer can achieve results that go far beyond the typical selfie. A magnificent portrait can bring out the subject's inner qualities, allowing their unique personality to shine through for generations to cherish.
  • What is portrait photography?

    Portrait photography is the art of capturing a sitter's likeness with a camera. While this may sound as simple as snapping a quick shot with your mobile phone, the truth is that a truly good portrait photo is difficult to achieve. The goal of a high-quality photo is to capture the personality and emotions behind the subject.

  • What is the history of portrait photography?

    Since the invention of the first camera in 1839, portraits have been one of the most popular kinds of photos. However, way back when, photos needed an exposure time of 20 minutes or more, meaning you would need to sit completely still for that time or else end up with a blurry image.

  • Where can you learn portrait photography?

    Many art schools across the country offer degrees in photography, and some even have specialized classes in portraiture. This can be a good option for young photographers who want a well-rounded skill set. However, many dedicated portrait photographers are self-taught and rely on their portfolios to serve as their credentials.

  • How do you start a portrait photography business?

    Before starting a portrait studio, it's best to gain experience shooting your friends and family so you have a strong portfolio to show clients. Once you're confident in your work, try making a website where you can direct new businesses interested in having their pictures taken.

  • How to eliminate shadows in portrait photography?

    The secret behind many photographers' success is that photography is 50% editing. If you're working digitally, you can open up your pictures in editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop, and use its digital tools to manipulate shadows and highlights. If you prefer to work analog, the best way to mitigate shadows is proper lighting.

  • What are the four categories of portrait photography?

    The four categories of portrait photography are constructionist, candid, environmental, and creative.

    1. Constructionist photographs involve working with a photographer who will sit you in different poses and lighting to create the perfect shot from the ground up.
    2. Candid photos are taken with minimal setup, trying to capture their subject in the moment.
    3. Environmental photos try to capture subjects in their natural environment.
    4. Creative photography uses a variety of experimental techniques and elements to create an original image.