Fast forward three years and my lifelong dream of becoming a Portrait Photographer has truly come to fruition.
I spent fifteen years working in the fashion industry in New York City before moving to Connecticut during Covid-19. Like many people after having children, I needed a change from the crazy pace and unbalanced schedule that I had gotten myself into.
I'm Erin. I live in Fairfield, CT with my two sweet children and wonderful husband.
I'm so honored you're here. Let me introduce myself.
about erin belles photography
Yep, ck one
My passion for photography began when I was about ten years old. I would set up photo shoots with my friends and family, complete with large fans for special effects.
My mom, seeing my love for taking photos, pulled out all her old equipment and set up a darkroom in our basement. She taught me how to develop film and prints and it became such a treasured activity for us to do together.
Above: a photo my sister took of me circa 1994 - can you guess what inspired this look?
before the age of digitals
A photograph I took and developed of my sister in 1995
Watching the images slowly appear in the developer was such a magical thing to experience and I've had a deep love for photography ever since.
I love what I do.
And I will make sure you love it too.
I've worked tirelessly on honing my photography skills to make it a full time career. Courses focusing on lighting, posing, composition, editing, framing and more. I've taken courses in person in Connecticut and workshops in NYC. After putting my kids to bed, I spend my evenings in online courses, perfecting my techniques and editing images.
my studio sitting area with an open view of the shooting area
me in my studio with the sweetest young model
I've always had a love for old, unique things. I wish I could go back in time and spend a week in the life of an old Hollywood movie star. My love for oil paintings with carved gilt frames inspired my hunt for a more authentic family photograph.
That's when I discovered my love of Fine Art Portraits.
I bet you're here because you're looking for an elevated way to capture & display your family photographs
In my family shoots, I use my editing techniques to enhance the mood of the image and use a painterly style that is reminiscent of days when portraits were painted on canvas.
In my more creative portraits, usually of children, I try to bring out an emotion in them while we are shooting. I will create a story and have them imagine they are the character in the story. This makes for a more authentic photo - and a more enjoyable experience as well.
For me, I look at myself as an artist using photography as my medium, versus a photographer capturing moments artistically.
Fine art portraiture is defined in many different ways - it's subjective. However, a common theme among opinions is that fine art edits are more artistic in nature.
What is a Fine Art Portrait?
i know you're THINKING it...
This is my favorite part. This is why I do what I do. The feeling my clients get when they see their final products is so satisfying - especially because I know they will feel a bit of this elation every time they walk by these photographs in their home.
The Portrait Reveal - Henrietta and Beatrice
The final product
My signature style comes from my unique editing process. I spend a lot of time perfecting each image.
Before & After
After you receive your final images via online gallery, you can choose which ones you would like to display in your home. I personally do custom framing and matting that will last for many generations. There is no pressure to purchase prints or wall art from me, however I can walk you through the benefits.
prints & custom framing
We discuss wardrobe for all members of the family. I can create a customized style board with ideas that match your family style.
We pay fine attention to fit, color palette, texture and movement.
For studio sessions, I offer the use of my client wardrobe, complimentary.
wardrobe & styling
During our pre-session consultation we discuss if you want a studio or outdoor session. I also get to know your home interior design style which will guide our wardrobe and styling choices. It will also play a factor in the colors that I use for backdrop, lighting, emotion and editing.
pre-session consultation
My customized creative process allows us to design your photographs so they blend into your personal & home decor style.
creative process
Click the numbers to scroll through some of my favorite pieces in my Client Closet. You'll have access to all of these, and much more.
Click the numbers to scroll through some of my favorite pieces in my Client Closet. You'll have access to all of these pieces, and much more.
Click the numbers to scroll through some of my favorite pieces in my Client Closet. You'll have access to all of these pieces, and much more.
Click the numbers to scroll through some of my favorite pieces in my Client Closet. You'll have access to all of these pieces, and much more.
Click the numbers to scroll through some of my favorite pieces in my Client Closet. You'll have access to all of these pieces, and much more.
Click "Next" to scroll through some of my favorite pieces in my Client Closet. You'll have access to all of these, and much more.
client closet
Building custom frames for my gorgeous clients' photographs
004. number four
Hosting parties and organizing vacations with my best friends
003. number three
Volunteering in my community and paying it forward with my talents.
002. number two
My family: these guys + a husband
001. number one
