The Childhood Portrait
A simple, artful portrait of childhood, just as it is.
From the earliest years through adolescence, The Childhood Portrait celebrates the expressions, gestures, and little details that make each child unmistakably themselves.
Thoughtfully photographed in my Newport News studio, these portraits are intentionally simple, allowing your child to remain the focus.
JUST AS THEY ARE
The Childhood Portrait
The thoughtful gaze. The shy smile. The familiar expression you’ve seen a thousand times. The little details that change so gradually, you hardly notice until they’re gone.
These are the things I love most about photographing children.
The Childhood Portrait is a simple, expressive approach to children’s photography, free from elaborate backdrops, unnecessary props, and expectations of a perfect smile.
Some children are naturally reserved. Others are curious, animated, or full of laughter. My approach is to give each child the space to be themselves, creating portraits that feel natural, honest, and entirely their own.
Because years from now, I want you to look at these photographs and recognize not just what your child looked like, but who they were.
Kind Words
Dreama managed to capture both my boys smiling – on purpose. That in itself is a caliber of how incredible she is with children. Highly recommend this amazing artist!
HILLARY
The Portrait Experience
A brief, thoughtfully planned studio session devoted entirely to your children. With beautiful light, a clean backdrop, and gentle direction when needed, I create an environment where children can settle in and simply be themselves.
Your session includes:
A 15-minute studio portrait session
Up to three children
Two digital portraits of your choice
A private online proof gallery
The opportunity to purchase additional images and professionally finished artwork
$195 SESSION FEE
Portrait dates are currently offered on select occasions throughout the year.
Join The Childhood Portrait List to receive first notice of upcoming availability.
MADE TO BE SEEN
A Place in Your Home
I believe there’s something meaningful about children growing up surrounded by photographs of themselves.
A familiar face in a frame on the bookshelf. A portrait hanging in the hallway. A quiet reminder, woven into everyday life, that they are seen, cherished, and loved.
For families who wish to enjoy their portraits beyond a digital gallery, I offer custom framing designed to complement both the photograph and your home.
Each piece is thoughtfully finished with quality materials, creating artwork you’ll be proud to display for years to come.
ARTWORK
FRAMES
Thoughtfully framed in timeless, classic finishes, each portrait becomes a beautiful piece of artwork to enjoy in your home for generations.
8×10 framed print: $600
11×14 framed print: $750
16×20 framed print: $1200
Torn Edge Prints
These are printed on soft, fine art paper with hand-torn edges, creating a simple, timeless piece that is especially beautiful for framing or gifting.
5×7 torn edge print: $65
8×10 torn edge print: $95
DIGITALS
Additional Digital Images
Delivered in high resolution for printing and sharing, your images are yours to keep and revisit for years to come.
1 Additional Digital: $50
Full Gallery Upgrade: $150
MEET DREAMA
BEHIND THE CAMERA
I’m Dreama, a children’s portrait photographer and mother with a deep appreciation for the fleeting seasons of childhood.
Before opening my studio, I spent years photographing hundreds of children in preschools throughout Hampton Roads. It was there that I learned something I’ve carried into my work ever since: the most meaningful portraits aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest smiles.
Sometimes it’s the thoughtful expression of a quiet child. The way a little boy tilts his head. A familiar grin, a missing tooth, or a look that reminds you so much of who they are at home.
I also grew up with very few photographs of myself as a child. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to understand just how much those photographs would mean to me today.
Perhaps that’s why I believe so strongly in creating them for other families.
I want children to grow up seeing their photographs displayed in their homes. To have that quiet, tangible reminder that they were seen, celebrated, and deeply loved.
That’s what I hope to create through The Childhood Portrait. Not simply a beautiful photograph, but a little piece of their story that belongs to them.
What to Wear
The beauty of The Childhood Portrait is in its simplicity, and I encourage families to approach clothing in much the same way.
Soft neutrals, natural fabrics, and understated details photograph beautifully against the clean backdrop. Cotton, linen, lightweight knits, and pieces with subtle texture are especially lovely.
For babies, a simple romper or diaper cover allows those wonderfully fleeting details of early childhood to take center stage.
Older children look beautiful in relaxed dresses, simple tops, linen shorts, or well-loved wardrobe staples that feel comfortable and natural to them.
I recommend avoiding prominent logos, busy patterns, oversized accessories, or anything that might compete with your child’s face.
Above all, choose clothing that allows your child to feel like themselves.
The most beautiful portraits rarely need anything more.
frequently asked questions
What if my child is shy or doesn't want to smile?
That’s perfectly fine. I never expect children to perform for the camera or give me a particular expression. Some children are naturally outgoing, while others prefer to observe quietly. I take a gentle, patient approach and allow each child to settle in at their own pace.
How many images are included?
Your session includes two digital portraits of your choice. Additional digital images, a complete gallery upgrade, and professionally finished artwork are available for purchase.
Will my images be in color or black and white?
Your gallery may include both color and black-and-white portraits, depending on the images and what best complements each photograph.
When will I receive my images?
You’ll receive a private online proof gallery approximately two to three weeks after your session. From there, you’ll select your favorite portraits for final editing.
Can siblings be photographed together?
Absolutely. Sessions accommodate up to three children, and I’m happy to create a sibling portrait in addition to individual photographs.
Are Childhood Portrait sessions available year-round?
At present, The Childhood Portrait is offered on select studio dates throughout the year. Joining the Childhood Portrait List is the best way to receive advance notice of upcoming opportunities.
THE CHILDHOOD PORTRAIT
This Season, Just as They Are
The little details of childhood have a way of changing before we realize it.
I’d love to help you preserve a few of them.
Join The Childhood Portrait List to receive first notice of upcoming portrait dates and the opportunity to reserve your session before booking opens to the public.