Cinematic Portraits
Cinematic Portraits. Shaped by Light. Driven by Drama
Service Description
Step into a cinematic, larger–than–life version of your family story with a Dramatic Family Portrait experience in Santa Cruz and the greater Bay Area. This is not a quick mini session or a handful of casual snapshots. It is a fully crafted, one–of–a–kind family portrait designed to look and feel like a movie poster, created on location with a combination of powerful studio flash and the natural beauty of the outdoor environment. Every session begins with a detailed planning conversation where we talk through your vision, wardrobe, and the overall mood you want to convey. Together, we choose a Santa Cruz or Bay Area location that complements your family’s personality—rugged coastline, redwood forests, open fields, dramatic architecture, or a hidden spot that feels meaningful to you. You’ll receive clear guidance on clothing, color palettes, and styling so everyone looks cohesive and polished without feeling overdone or uncomfortable. On the day of the shoot, all you need to do is show up and be yourselves. The lighting, posing, and technical details are fully handled for you. Using portable studio lighting outdoors on location in Santa Cruz or around the Bay Area, the sky, landscape, and atmosphere become part of the set, giving you rich color, depth, and drama that simply isn’t possible with available light alone. Expect gentle direction, bad jokes, and a relaxed, encouraging environment—especially helpful for anyone who usually “hates having their photo taken.” From this session, the goal is simple: one unforgettable hero portrait of your family. This is the image that stops people in their tracks when they walk into your home. It is carefully curated from the best frames, then meticulously retouched to highlight expression, detail, and mood while still feeling like you. You will have the opportunity to view your images and select your favorite, with guidance on which crop and finish will look best on your walls. This Dramatic Family Portrait service is built for families who want artwork, not just files. Serving Santa Cruz, Monterey Bay, and the broader Bay Area, you’ll have access to premium wall art options—including framed prints, canvas, metal, or acrylic pieces—sized specifically for the space in your home where this image will live. From planning to installation, the focus is on creating one signature portrait that your family can enjoy every day, for years to come, while working with a Santa Cruz Bay Area family portrait photographer who speciali
Cancellation Policy
- Purchasing a 30 minute time slot is $200 (and a $10 processing fee) - The session is non-refundable if client cancels. - It is an additional $100 to reschedule. - Each client receives one headshot of their choosing with standard skin retouching within 48 hours of choosing. - Each additional headshot with standard retouching is $50 each. - High end skin retouching is an additional $50 per headshot. - To have all proof shots emailed is $50
Contact Details
(831) 466-6704
mike@shotsbyross.com
1753 Glenwood Drive, Scotts Valley, CA, USA