As a Richmond-based photographer, My goal is simple: create photographs that feel as authentic as the moments themselves. With a relaxed approach, an eye for natural light, and a love for both digital and film photography, I'll guide you when you need it and step back when the best moments happen on their own.
Learn More ↗Explore wedding coverage, portrait sessions, events, family photography, and film add-ons, each with a clear path from planning to gallery delivery.
Making sure all your precious moments are captured
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Your elopement is an intimate celebration of your love story: raw, authentic, and uniquely yours. …
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Celebrate your academic achievements with professional graduation photos
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Professional outdoor portraits and headshots perfect for social media, professional profiles, or personal use
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Capture precious family moments with professional photography sessions
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Capture your love story with a personalized engagement session
Learn More →Ready to book or have questions? I'd love to hear about your vision.
Get in Touch 5.0 · 56+ Google reviewsBrowse Richmond photo locations, graduation campuses, garden settings, rainy-day indoor spots, and wedding venues with notes on timing, access, and real galleries photographed there.
From our first conversation to your finished gallery — a deliberate, unhurried approach at every step.
We'll start with a phone call or meeting to discuss your vision, preferences, and goals for the photoshoot. I'll answer all your questions and provide guidance on location, outfit choices, and timing.
Once you've chosen your package, I'll send a contract and invoice for the deposit. Together, we'll plan the perfect photoshoot—selecting locations, establishing a timeline, and addressing any special requests.
On the day of your session, I'll arrive prepared with professional equipment and backup gear. My approach is relaxed and collaborative, guiding you through poses while capturing authentic moments. Sessions typically last between 1-3 hours depending on your package.
After your session, I carefully select and professionally edit the best images. Each photo receives individual attention to ensure perfect color, tone, and style consistent with my artistic vision while honoring your preferences.
Within 2-3 weeks (weddings 4-6 weeks), your images are delivered through a private client portal that keeps your gallery, downloads, session archive, planning materials, and print ordering in one place. You can revisit past shoots, share your gallery with family, download high-resolution files, and order professional-quality prints directly from trusted print partners.
From classic 35mm to medium format and instant film — an analog aesthetic that digital simply can't replicate.
Explore Film ServicesMuseum-quality fine art prints, custom framed and ready to hang. Turn your session into something lasting.
Shop Prints
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, joy, and commitment—a story that deserves to be beautifully captured. From the heartfelt 'I dos' to the lively moments on the dance floor, our wedding photography ensures every detail is preserved.
Every person has a unique story to tell, and our portrait photography is designed to capture yours. Whether you're looking for professional headshots, creative artistic portraits, or casual lifestyle images, we work with you to bring out your personality and style.
Your engagement marks the beginning of a beautiful journey together, and our photography is here to celebrate that love. Whether you envision a romantic sunset shoot or a playful session in your favorite spot, we create images that reflect your unique bond.
Celebrate your academic achievements with a stunning graduation photoshoot! Whether it's capturing the excitement of turning the tassel or preserving the pride in your cap and gown, we create timeless images that commemorate this milestone.
From corporate gatherings to milestone celebrations, I capture the energy and excitement of your special occasions. Every handshake, every smile, every spontaneous moment tells part of your event's story.
Your love isn’t posed—it’s inside jokes, stolen kisses, and goofy moments. I’m here to snap the real stuff: relaxed, unscripted, and 100% you
Preserving your family's genuine connections and precious milestones through natural, heartfelt photography. Whether it's tender moments between siblings, multi-generational portraits, or candid playtime at your favorite park.
You don’t take a photograph, you make it.” – Ansel Adams. Film is deliberate, unhurried, and rooted in craft. No filters, no undo button—just light, chemistry, and intention. Let’s create, not click.
Capturing your special moments with professional quality and artistic vision. Browse my most popular packages below or view all services for complete details.
4 hours of coverage · 400+ edited photos via online gallery · Personalized consultation · 1 roll of 35mm film · Ideal for smaller celebrations with a focused timeline
Starting at $1,500 Learn More ↗
6 hours of coverage · 600+ edited photos via online gallery · Personalized consultation · 1 roll of 35mm film · Engagement session · Perfect for ceremonies, portraits, and key reception moments
Starting at $2,000 Learn More ↗
8 hours of coverage · 800+ edited photos via online gallery · Personalized consultation · 2 rolls of 35mm film · Engagement session · Full-day wedding coverage
Starting at $2,400 Learn More ↗
1.5 hour of coverage · Ceremony and couple portraits · 200+ edited photos via online gallery · Personalized consultation · Ideal for courthouse weddings and intimate gatherings
Starting at $600 Learn More ↗
2.5 hours of coverage · Ceremony, portraits, and celebration moments · 350+ edited photos via online gallery · Personalized consultation · 1 roll of 35mm film included · Perfect for destination elopements and small celebrations
Starting at $1,000 Learn More ↗
3 hours of coverage · Getting ready, ceremony, portraits, and celebration · 500+ edited photos via online gallery · Personalized consultation · 2 roll of 35mm film included · Perfect for adventure elopements and extended celebrations
Starting at $1,200 Learn More ↗
Our Basic Graduation Session is designed for students who want professional graduation photos on a budget. This package provides everything you need to capture your achievement with high-quality images in a single location. Bring your cap and gown for traditional shots, and we'll help you create memorable images to share with family and friends.
30 minute outdoor session · Cap and gown photos · One additional outfit · One location (campus or local park) · 20+ edited photos · Online gallery delivery · Personal printing rights
Starting at $150 Book Now ↗
1.5 hour outdoor session · Cap and gown photos · One additional outfit · One location (campus or local park) · 30+ edited photos · Online gallery delivery · Personal printing rights
Starting at $200 Book Now ↗
2.5 hour session · Cap and gown photos · Two additional outfits · Multiple campus locations · Friend/family mini session included · 60+ edited photos · Online gallery delivery · Personal printing rights · Basic retouching
Starting at $350 Book Now ↗
1.5 hour outdoor session · One outfit · One location · 50+ edited photos · Online gallery delivery · Personal printing rights
Starting at $200 Book Now ↗
2 hour session · Two outfits · Two locations · 60+ edited photos · Online gallery delivery · Personal printing rights · Basic retouching
Starting at $300 Book Now ↗
1 hour session · One outdoor location · One outfit · 40+ edited photos · Online gallery delivery · Personal printing rights · Up to 5 people
Starting at $300 Book Now ↗
2 hour session · One location · Outfit change opportunity · 50+ edited photos · Group and individual family combinations · Online gallery delivery · Personal printing rights · Up to 25 people
Starting at $400 Book Now ↗
3 hour session · Two locations · Multiple outfit changes · 80+ edited photos · Group, individual, and candid shots · Online gallery delivery · Personal printing rights · Premium photo album · Up to 15 people
Starting at $500 Book Now ↗
1.5 hours of coverage · One location · One outfit · 40+ edited photos · Online gallery delivery
Starting at $300 Book Now ↗
2 hours of coverage · Two locations · Two outfits · 60+ edited photos · Online gallery delivery
Starting at $400 Book Now ↗
3 hours of coverage · Multiple locations · Three outfits · 100+ edited photos · Film photos included · Online gallery delivery
Starting at $500 Book Now ↗
No watermarks, no paywalls, no weird restrictions. Your full gallery is downloadable in high-res and web-size, so you and your loved ones can share the photos.
A simple link, a quick passcode, and the whole gallery is ready to share. No complicated logins, no tech headaches, just access for your people.
Every photo gets professional color, exposure, and thoughtful cleanup. Nothing overdone, just polished images that still feel like you.
Your photos are arranged in a way that makes sense. No digging, no chaos. Easy to browse, easy to download, and easy to enjoy.
Film adds grain, warmth, and a little bit of magic to the gallery. When film coverage is included or added on, it is blended into your digital gallery so everything feels cohesive.
Your photos are not meant to live only in the cloud. Fine-art albums, heirloom prints, and wall art turn the finished gallery into something tangible.
Add-ons like extra coverage, film, prints, albums, or custom delivery options can be folded into the experience when they fit the session.
Let's discuss your vision. Fill out the form and I'll get back to you within 24 hours.
“Stephen was phenomenal to work with. I hired him to take my graduation photos. He was easy to look up, he is very transparent about his prices and his packages. Let me tell you his prices are very fair for the quality of the service and the finished product. My photos came out fantastic. This guy captures people's most important moments and he makes the entire process very relaxing and frankly, ve…”
May 2026
“Stephen is hands down one of the best photographers in the RVA area! Not only did he capture absolutely breathtaking photos of us, but the entire experience was genuinely so fun and easy. He made sure to recreate all of the inspiration photos I sent beforehand and did an amazing job directing both me and my group throughout the shoot. Working with him was an absolute pleasure from start to fini…”
May 2026
“We are so happy with our engagement photos! The entire experience was amazing from start to finish. Our photographer made us feel comfortable, captured such natural moments, and gave us photos that truly feel like us. Would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an engagement photographer in Richmond!”
April 2026
“Had a great photo session with Stephen. He suggested creative and interesting poses with my harp. He was patient and his directions were clear. The final photos are excellent! I highly recommend Stephen for all your photo needs.”
March 2026
“Excellent service and quality! He was booked for our work event and did an outstanding job!!!!”
March 2026
“Stephen is THE photographer! He brought our dreams to life for our engagement. I adore these photos and will treasure them for a life time . But I cannot be more thankful for the absolute talent he shared with us for our October wedding. Our guests LOVED having Stephen . He created an experience for them and us that cannot be matched. If you are shopping for a professional to record your treasured…”
December 2025
“We had an amazing family photo session with Stephen. He went the extra mile to bring lighting for the house and outside since it was a cloudy day. He was cheerful and friendly to the little kids, trying to get smiles out of them (and us). He worked with our schedule, the location, and our list of shots to do. Finally, he delivered a fantastic album, including some of the shots where he tweaked so …”
December 2025
“Working with Stephen was such a pleasure! He made everything easy and pleasant. Our extended family photos came out great!”
December 2025
“It was amazing, I brought my friend with me and we had a good time. he helped me with posing and was very nice and welcome! Definitely recommend!”
November 2025
“Responsive, professional, made the photo shoot comfortable and easy”
August 2025
“What a wonderful experience. Professional, patient and efficient!”
August 2025
“I had an awesome time shooting with Stephen!! Great conversation and I learned a ton about film from him. Got my digital photos back super quick and they turned out awesome. And I'm so excited to see how the film turns out!”
August 2025
“Stephen was so kind and easy to work with! He was super patient with me and had a great eye for what he wanted in each shot and once we found the right background and lighting, everything just clicked and moved along quickly. The turnaround”
August 2025
“Very kind/professional!”
August 2025
“Thank you Stephen for a great photography session. Stephen was very patient and took some memorable pictures that will be cherished for a lifetime. If you're looking for a great photographer to capture important events or special moments, He's definitely experienced and takes great pictures!”
August 2025
“Best portrait I could ever hope for!”
August 2025
“Reasonable price”
August 2025
“Working with Stephen was easy and fun! The photos turned out great, too!”
August 2025
“Great experience working with Stephen. He knew the exact vision! Very punctual and willing to go above and beyond to get the right shot! Offered me a free sessions to get the pic in mind!”
August 2025
“I was blown away by Stephen's photos! I was so excited to share the gallery with friends and on my business page. 10/10 would recommend.”
August 2025
“Excellent experience of my portrait session! Stephen created a calming, pleasant atmosphere during the shoot. Very knowledgable about lighting and film technique. Very prompt to deliver results. I love the photos he created and can't wait to use them for my professional profile!”
July 2025
“Stephen is phenomenal. I explained my unique elopement idea to him and he was all on board. He created a special package for me, visited the location on his own to test the site, and made my husband and I so comfortable on our special day.”
June 2025
“Stephen is a solid photographer. Takes great shots and relieve the family to present by taking the photos for my brother graduation. Highly recommend.”
June 2025
“I had quite an enjoyable shoot with Stephen, can't wait to see the film results!”
June 2025
“booked Stephen for my wedding and he did an amazing job. He is really a pleasure to work with and the pictures came out beautifully!”
June 2025
“Stephen took family photos while we were on vacation in Virginia. He was generous with his time and took photos at various locations. He was particularly good about catching candid photos throughout the process. I recommend his services.”
May 2025
“Stephen's photos are spectacular. He is very responsive to questions you may have and is great to work with when doing the photo shoot.”
May 2025
“I had the pleasure of working with Stephen for my family shoot, and I could not be happier with the photos! Stephen has a remarkable talent for capturing candid moments that tell a story and he was incredibly professional throughout the”
April 2025
“Amazingly kind photographer with a wonderful talent. I would definitely like to plan another photo session in the future!”
April 2025
“Stephen was a great photographer for our elopement! Easy to book and work with. He was great with our pets!”
April 2025
“I highly recommend Stephen for any photography job. He was very professional from the moment I booked the appointment to the actual photo shooting day. He suggested a call or video meeting prior to the session to ask what I wanted. I explained that we have two boys in Military colleges and with one graduating soon, I wanted to capture them in uniform together. Stephen listened and gave me suggesti…”
March 2025
“Stephen was very professional. He was friendly and had good ideas. We enjoyed his work”
March 2025
“We hired Stephen Lawson Photography to capture our elopement at the last minute and he was extremely accommodating! To be clear, we contacted him about 14 hours before the wedding. He was on time, extremely professional, and took an ample amount of photos. He even used a vintage camera to get a really cool shot at the end! He showed us some of the photos on the camera itself, and they looked absol…”
February 2025
“Stephen was amazing to work with for our wedding! He went above and beyond to make sure we took the most beautiful pictures for our special day. He was also professional, friendly and a great communicator. We highly recommend him!”
December 2024
“Full five stars on this guy. He's very personable, affordable, and professional. I very much intend to work with him again and cannot recommend him enough. He also turned around the photos to me in a very timely manner. Thanks so much Stephen!”
December 2024
“Stephen was very kind and anxiety-reducing during the photography session by being so personable. The photos he delivered after were nothing short of awesome too. 10/10”
December 2024
“Stephen is wonderful to work with. Despite the holidays, he was able to turn the pictures he took around really quickly.”
December 2024
“Stephen was very professional and responded to emails quickly and gave us the impression that nothing was too much trouble. On the day of the event, he was still very professional but also really friendly. He made everyone feel comfortable and at ease about being photographed. I’ll definitely work with him again.”
November 2024
“Working with him is a pleasant, professional, good quality work and easy to contact and responsive to communications.”
October 2024
“Absolutely amazing work. Easy to communicate with and just an all around Professional. This man is amazing!!”
October 2024
“Stephen was such a pleasure to work with! He had great suggestions and ideas but let us play with our own ideas as well. We hired Stephen for our engagement photo shoot and were very satisfied with his work. We absolutely ADORE the photos of the two of us and our dog Zak. It's not easy to photograph a dog and Stephen was super patient with Zak and got a ton of great pictures of the three of us. St…”
October 2024
“Stephen was terrific and the photos of my car were fantastic!! He was a real pleasure to work with and I highly recommend!”
September 2024
“Hired him for a big family reunion. Did a good job of getting all of us in one shot as well as numerous smaller groups”
August 2024
“I had the pleasure of working with Stephen Lawson Photography LLC, and it was an incredible experience! From start to finish, the session was fun and exciting, capturing not just stunning images but also the joy and energy of the day. Stephen has an amazing eye for detail and a unique ability to make you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. The final photos exceeded my expectatio…”
August 2024
“Stephen was excellent to work with. 10/10”
July 2024
“We are truly thankful to have Stephen help us share our engagement with some phenomenal photos!! He was able to capture beautiful shots in challenging weather and in a very busy location!! The finishing product made us feel like our story came right out of a novel!! Thank you so much for the lifetime memories you captured in our engagement photos Stephen!!!”
July 2024
“Stephen Lawson Photography exceeded our expectations in every way, and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a professional and talented event photographer. The turnaround time for receiving the photos was impressive, and we were thrilled with the quality of the final images. Each picture highlighted the best aspects of our event and the people involved. Overall, working with St…”
July 2024
“Had my professional portraits taken by Stephen and they came out great. I recommended him to my coworkers.”
July 2024
“I loved our photshoot with Stephen!! My son had a one year photoshoot with Stephen and he went above and beyond! I walked into the photoshoot with my one year old and to my surprise, Stephen had set up the studio BALLOONS and provided CAKE! for our cake smash. How many photographers do you know that will provide that? If you are already thinking about hiring him, just do it! Stephen was patient wi…”
June 2024
“Stephen was at our office recently to take professional headshots. He was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. I love the quality of my photos. They turned out great! Thank you so much. I highly recommend the quality of his photography.”
December 2023
“We recently hired Stephen to take multiple headshots of employees at our company event and he was absolutely fantastic. The headshots turned out extremely high quality, he was very affordable compared to others in the area, easy to work”
December 2023
“My company hired Stephen to do headshots, and he delivered a great product. Highly recommend”
December 2023
“Very responsive business owner, I was able to book an appointment quickly and had proofs to review the day after the shoot. Stephen was very friendly and super easy to work with-would definitely book with him again! Thanks Stephen!”
December 2023
“We loved working with Stephen! From start to finish, he has been so easy and a pleasure to work with. Our family photos turned out absolutely stunning and looked so natural. Definitely found our fave photographer in the area.”
October 2023
“Stephen is amazing to work with. I needed some headshots to use for an upcoming audition and Stephen not only understood what I wanted but also made valuable suggestions to ensure that I best represent myself in the pictures once the end product is done. His communication was clear, direct and we got things done in a reasonable amount of time. In fact, he went above and beyond to make sure that I …”
August 2023
“Stephen was the best! He took both my Airbnb and engagement photographs. I’m very pleased with his work. Prior to my photoshoot, my now husband and I had no idea what to expect from a photo session and posing was an out of this world concept for us by then. Stephen truly understood our vision and the essence of our love story; he managed to capture it all. He skillfully utilized various settings, …”
July 2023
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