Richmond Engagement Photographers

I received my BFA in photography at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2005. I primarily studied film while in college and am self taught in regards to the digital era. I built a darkroom in several of my apartments while in school. I've been through about 7 different digital SLR cameras, upgrading as the technology advanced. I still often shoot film for the joy of it. I used the skills I learned in undergrad and applied them to learning everything I could about digital photography and lighting. I discovered that I loved the crisp image that only a prime lens can lend to an image, though I do love my 70-200mm for it's dynamic range. After college I worked as a darkroom technician, developing and printing large format prints and working with historic negatives. I moved to Charlottesville for a year and worked as a product photographer for an online retailer at Music Today. I started 2nd shooting for a local wedding photographer and fell in love with the raw documentary nature of the work. I moved back to Richmond and started my business, focusing primarily on Wedding photography. I've also done portraits, editorial and corporate work and hope to do more of this work, diversifying myself as a photographer.

Jonathan Smallwood, CPA has professionally been behind a camera for 12 years; his sole purpose is to connect with his clients and ensure they are beyond satisfied with his service and photos. Photography has been Jonathan's biggest passion since he was a teenager, and he loves every opportunity to serve others with his talent. Jonathan personally knows how awesome it is to have a special time captured forever in the form of photography; which is why he would love to treat your special occasion or portrait session as if it were one of his own and provide you with photos that you and your loved ones will look back on with joy for years to come. Jonathan takes pride in providing the best quality of service and communication with his clients to ensure all their photography needs are met, while going the "extra mile" in whatever way he can assist to make sure your special occasion goes smoothly. The joy and fulfillment Jonathan experiences from seeing clients satisfied with his services is priceless to him, and he truly wants to not only be present as your photographer, but also as your supporter. He would love the opportunity to serve you and your loved ones during your next memorable occasion, and build a relationship with you that will hopefully last for years to come!

Jay delved into the wold of photography back in 2009 and his journey began with simple compact camera shooting landscapes then he gradually evolved as he immersed himself in the art of portrait photography. Inspired by the nuances of human emotions, he honed his skills through experimentation, practice and a formal training for wedding photographers to refined his craft.

I started my passion for photography when I was a teenager. Still, It was only in 2013, after a college degree in Marketing and some years of career, that I decided to turn my passion into a profession. I went to a one-year professional photography course and started taking pictures of pregnant friends, babies, and families. In recent years, I have decided to explore more still images and grow my portfolio into food photography and product photography. I love seeing my pictures in online stores and using my academic knowledge in photography, too.

Ever since I was little, I have always had an eye for special moments, and really paying attention to detail. I am originally from New Orleans, La, but now I reside in North Chesterfield, Va with my wonderful family. I have 3 beautiful children: Ariel (9), Quinn (8), and Tegan (6), as well as my husband, Michael. I survive on pumpkin spice lattes and I’m a sucker for all things fall related! When I am not on mom duty, I am out capturing beautiful images for others. I like to make others feel comfortable when choosing me for their photographer and not have to stress over anything! I was taught how to do photography from my amazing husband in 2018 and ever since then, I have fallen in love with being a photographer. I specialize in weddings, lifestyle, portraits, and so much more.

My passion for photography lies within storytelling. I aim to take the time to get to know my models before throwing them infant of my camera so that I am able to properly tell their story. I love the human experience and try to put forth that in my photos.