Business Details
19 Years
experience
Professional Portrait Photography in Santa Cruz
Since 2007, Positive Vista Photography & Art By Portia Shao has been dedicated to capturing life's most meaningful moments through the lens of artistic vision. Our studio combines technical excellence with creative artistry, offering clients a unique experience that transforms portraits into timeless works of art. With a background in watercolor painting and over 15 years of professional photography experience, our founder Portia Shao brings a distinctive artistic perspective to every session. Recognized by the Professional Photographers of America with multiple awards, including a World Photographic Cup silver medal, we maintain rigorous standards of quality through continuous education and industry certifications. Our commitment to client satisfaction is demonstrated through our 'Be Thrilled or Bust' guarantee, ensuring every customer receives portraits that exceed expectations.From corporate headshots to enchanted fantasy portraits, we approach each project with personalized attention and creative expertise. Our studio's location in Santa Cruz's historic Old Sash Mill provides a welcoming environment where clients can relax and enjoy the creative process. Through years of experience photographing diverse subjectsfrom Hollywood professionals to local familieswe've developed techniques that bring out the authentic beauty and personality of every individual. Our technical proficiency with lighting and post-processing ensures consistently exceptional results, while our artistic sensibilities create images that resonate emotionally. This combination of skill, experience, and dedication makes Positive Vista Photography & Art By Portia Shao a trusted choice for discerning clients seeking professional portraits that stand apart.
Services
Portrait Photography
Headshot Sessions
Family Portraits
Maternity Photography
Newborn Portraits
Pet Photography
Fantasy Portraits
Senior Portraits
Artistic Transformations
Photo-to-Painting Conversion
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of professional photography experience with international awards
- Our founder holds Master Artist and Master of Photography credentials from PPA
- We provide a 'Be Thrilled or Bust' satisfaction guarantee on all portrait sessions
- We combine technical expertise with artistic vision for unique, high-quality results
- Our studio has been featured in published photography books and exhibitions
Associations and certifications
- Professional Photographers of America (PPA)
- American Society of Photographers (ASP)
What people say
Amazing creativity
Beyond expectations
Highly recommend
Professional expertise
Enjoyable experience
Services
Portrait Photography
Professional portrait sessions capturing individuals, families, and pets in artistic compositions. Our experienced photographer creates natural, flattering images that highlight subjects' unique personalities and relationships. Sessions include personalized guidance on posing and styling for optimal results.
Headshot Sessions
Corporate and personal headshots designed for professional profiles, LinkedIn, and business websites. We create polished, confidence-boosting images that convey professionalism while maintaining approachable authenticity through expert lighting and composition techniques.
Fantasy Portraits
Enchanted photography sessions transforming clients into mythical characters through costume, makeup, and digital effects. This service combines theatrical elements with artistic photography to create magical portraits for children and adults seeking unique visual storytelling.
Photo-to-Painting
Digital photo transformation into painted artworks using watercolor and oil painting techniques. This service preserves photographic realism while adding artistic texture and brushstroke effects, creating one-of-a-kind wall art from cherished photographs.
Maternity Photography
Specialized sessions celebrating pregnancy through elegant, artistic imagery. We create tasteful compositions that honor the beauty of motherhood, offering both studio and outdoor options with professional styling assistance for timeless keepsake portraits.
People
Portia Shao
Owner & Lead Photographer
Professional photographer since 2007 with Master Artist and Master of Photography credentials from PPA. Specializes in portrait and artistic photography, with international awards including World Photographic Cup silver medalist. Combines technical expertise with watercolor painting background for unique visual style.
Questions
What types of photography sessions do you offer?
We specialize in portrait photography including headshots, family portraits, maternity sessions, newborn photography, pet portraits, fantasy themes, and high school senior portraits.
Do you provide photo editing and artistic enhancements?
Yes, we offer digital editing, photo-to-painting conversion, and creative enhancements using both digital tools and traditional watercolor techniques.
What is your 'Be Thrilled or Bust' guarantee?
If you're not completely satisfied with your portraits, we'll provide additional sessions at no charge until you're thrilled with the results or offer a full refund.
Are you available for location shoots outside the studio?
While most sessions occur in our studio, we can accommodate select on-location shoots for maternity, family portraits, and special events with advance planning.
How do you ensure quality results?
Our photographer maintains industry certifications, participates in professional competitions, and stays current with technical advancements to ensure consistently exceptional quality.
Can I purchase physical prints of my photos?
Yes, we offer professional printing services on various media types, including canvas and fine art paper, with custom framing options available.
