The 9 Best Lifestyle Photographers in Portland

Known by many as the land of Voodoo Donuts and food carts, Portland, OR, is also home to bridges and Stumptown Coffee, as well as a confluence of landscapes. The city’s hip and happening, boasting a stock of extremely talented artists and photographers. Making a list that includes only nine Portland lifestyle photographers was a challenge, but here are creatives that we feel truly capture the spirit of the Pacific Northwest.

1. Jessica Clark of Jessie Photo Doula

All of Jessica Clark’s work is remarkable. Her family shoots are sweet and loving, showcasing her obvious tenderness for her subjects. Her newborn shots carry an undeniable fragile charm, but it’s her birth photography that truly sets her apart. As a birth doula, Jessie has a particular talent for capturing the raw emotions of birth. Her work is visceral, primal, and stunning for exactly those reasons. Her style combines a documentary approach and film aesthetic — making for beautiful personal stories.

2. Courtney Jade

Courtney Jade is an all-around talented photographer. Her bright, light photography showcases each subject, whether indoors or out. Every photograph has a sense of whimsy, lightness, and playfulness combined with pure love. She has penchant for textured backgrounds, which make for always interesting portraits. In addition, she has an eye for sweet moments. Her branding photos change gears a bit with their elegant simplicity, and they are perfect for posting on Instagram. Check out her work and you will agree — she is a rock star with a camera. 

3. Anna Caitlin Photography

We are in love with Anna Caitlin’s work. Quintessentially Portland-esque and absolutely cool without seeming to try at all, her photos are poetry in pixels. A true artist, Anna has a very distinct style — think of crisp fall days spent jumping in leaves, and you will begin to come close to her aesthetic. Each shot is warm and muted, and her jumping shots are something special — free-spirited and fun. If you want a personal art piece, choose a double-exposure shot, as they are glorious. With a bag of specialty lenses, Anna is the perfect creative when you want to capture your joyful self during a portrait shoot.

4. Velvet Owl Photography

Heidi Haden creates unexpectedly nostalgic portraits. Blending a certain quirky trendiness with a vintage eye for color into her work, she is adept at showing the world the fun side of your family. Slightly desaturated hues mixed with warm tones are her hallmark, and that is what sets her apart. Her outdoor shots are magazine-worthy, capturing all of the splendor of your waterfall hike or traipse through the gorge with her signature style.

5. Katy Weaver Photography

Katy Weaver is a vibrant person who brings that energy into her work. Capturing fun and festive wedding moments in bold ways is her raison d’être, and it is clear throughout her portfolio that she does it with pleasure. Always well-framed and expertly lit, each shot is a mixture of sweet, loving, and stylish elements. Keep being bold, Katy — we love it! 

6. Michelle Stevens of Artistique

As one of the most long-established Portland lifestyle photographers, Michelle Stevens hits it out of the park in everything she shoots — from fashion to branding headshots to outdoor family portraits. Her editorial work is regularly featured in local magazines, and it’s no wonder, especially seeing as her shots are always professional and polished. 

7. Boone Rodriguez

Boone Rodriguez is an adventurous outdoorsman who imprints each of his shots with a ruggedness that is a perfect match for the landscapes of the PNW. His minimalist eye is well-suited to make his subjects truly stand out. With his expertise, it’s no surprise that he often works on national photo campaigns for clients like Columbia Sportswear, Nike, and Clif Bar. Choose Boone when you want commercially styled lifestyle photography.

8. Morrow Hammack Photography

Michael is the genius behind Morrow Hammack Photography. His ultra-crisp, high-definition, and dynamic range style is well-suited for capturing all the details of your life, from your wedding day to your restaurant-opening day. Expertly blending an eclectic eye with vibrant colors equals interesting shots, and none of Michael’s photos lack interest or zest. He is a great choice when you want both boldness and beauty in the same shot. 

9. Polara Studio

A full-service commercial outfit, Polara Studio has you covered if you want high-gloss, advertising lifestyle shots. High-impact colors and super-detailed shots are what draws national brands like Nike and Columbia Sportswear to their roster of clients. If you can dream it, they can do it, with specialists in diverse niches ranging from product photography to sports photography. Polara Studio offers a suite of professionals to choose from, as well as all of the photography gear you would ever need to turn your dream photoshoot into reality.

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