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Northern Virginia’s

Portrait Photographer

Nicole is a natural light photographer located in Ashburn Virginia. She specializes in candid, detail focused & timeless images that capture the essence of your personality. While she focuses on ensuring that you receive timeless memories, your session experience is just as important by providing flexible scheduling around optimal lighting, a can-do attitude when things change outside our control, and a professional stream of communication to ensure your session is a positive experience.
Nicole Cranford Photography, Meet Nicole

Portrait Packages

Affordable portrait photographer packages

Bronze

Collection
$375
  • 1 hour
  • 8 high resolution digital images
  • One location
  • One wardrobe
  • Private online gallery
  • Print release
  • 1 week proof rendering
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Sliver

Collection
$575
  • 1 ½ hour
  • 15 high resolution digital images
  • One location
  • Two wardrobe changes
  • Private online gallery
  • Print release
  • 1 week proof rendering
Let's Talk

Gold

Collection
$975
  • 2 hours
  • 35 high resolution digital images
  • One location
  • Two wardrobe changes
  • Private online gallery
  • Print release
  • 1 week proof rendering
Let's Talk
All portrait sessions require you to pay 50% of your package up front when booking. Remainder is due when finals are delivered, no hidden fees.

* Excludes micro weddings. Please contact me to build your photography experience!

Book Your Next Portrait Session with Me!

Book your next Family, High School Senior, or Portrait Session with me! Barn discounts for multiple shoots held on the same day at the same barn. Contact me for pricing details. Private horse show photographer packages include individual and group pricing.
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More About Portrait Photography

My portrait sessions include family, children only, high school seniors, and headshots. My main goal for any shoot is to ensure that you feel comfortable during the session so we can capture that natural essence of your personality! I aim to provide you with the perfect location to fit your style and convenience. These sessions are a collaborative effort between us with my ideas and to weave in anything that holds meaning for you. I want you to walk away from our time together feeling like it was a memorable experience – no fuss, no stress. Please view my portfolio. Take a look at my Portrait Style Guide to help with the planning of your perfect shoot along with locations ideas!

Inquire About Portrait Photography

Portrait Photography FAQs

What hours do you work on the day?

I’m flexible. In general, I can be with you from when you as the bride are getting ready and would normally expect to take my last picture sometime after your first dance.

I offer flexible packages so feel free to ask me about extra time to capture your family and guests relaxing and letting loose on the dance floor – some of your favorite images can come from this time!

What should we bring to the photo shoot?

Make sure everyone has been fed before the photoshoot. It’s always a good idea to bring water.

What are the best locations for a family shoot in the DMV?

A park is always a great location. It offers simple non cluttered backgrounds that will help your family photos stand out. Trees offer natural shade that is flattering for portraits. But consider that the background also will be present in your photos, and it might be nice to choose a place that has some importance to your family. Your home, your backyard, the street in front of your home is also a nice choice.

Do you offer studio sessions as well?

Yes, I do offer sessions in my Sterling VA studio.

Are our photos edited/retouched?

Yes, they are fully edited to look their best for you including skin softening, eye enhancement and more where appropriate.

What should we wear to a family shoot?

I suggest getting a little dressed up for a photo session. For men, this means a button down or collared shirt. For women, hair done and a little make-up. For kids – stay away from bold patterns, writing on shirts and make sure the clothes fit well. Although truth be told, kids are always cute no matter what they are wearing.

How much time should we schedule for a family photo shoot?

The session lasts between 1-1.5 hours. I will keep shooting as long as I’m getting great shots. Kids have about 45 minutes of energy (and patience) for family photos, so the best shots are often gotten right at the start of the session. That’s why I like to keep the end of the session reserved for candid and un-posed photos. We can even end the session in a playground and catch kids playing and having fun. Those are also great memories…

What if my child is not behaving?

My sessions are designed to be fun, fast moving and very candid. I always try to get the posed pictures done first and then dedicate the rest of the session for candid photos. You will get beautiful shots from your photo session. So don’t worry about your kids, I will take care of everything.

What happens if it rains? Or what it my child is sick?

Both these situations would not make for the best photos. So that’s not good for either of us. I often book a back-up date when the initial date is set. Otherwise, you can cancel (even the morning of your session) and we will choose another date.

Who will be the photographer at our family session?

I am also the main photographer for all photo sessions. I also do all the editing, retouching and contact with clients. That’s what makes Nicole Cranford photography such a unique photography company. I offer very personalized service and attention to all my clients. While other photographers might hire someone to edit their photos, I like to have full control over every session to ensure the highest quality of work for all my clients.

What should we do with our digital files?

Having the digital files gives you the most freedom. You can use the photos for Christmas cards, calendars, prints, canvas, frames. Or simply make a beautiful slideshow or photo book. The key is not to leave the images on your computer where you will never have the chance to view them.

Do you offer family portraits outside of the DMV?

Yes, for sure. A family photo session at your home outside of Virginia, Maryland, and DC would be my pleasure. I do charge a travel fee for locations outside of the city. Send me and email and I can give you all the information.

How do we book a session with you?

Simply send me an email with some preferred dates. Keep in mind that weekends book up fast, so if you’d like a weekend date, consider booking about 3-4 weeks in advance.