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Portraits by Spencer

Alexandria, Virginia, Alexandria

(29)
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‘19 Certificate of Excellence, 2019

About

We are a modern photography studio that captures the individuality and beauty in every client.

We enjoy making my clients look confident and poised while still coming across as friendly and approachable. We do this by focusing on their expressions and those expressions are the heart of our work.

1 hire on Bark

Reviews (29)

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5/5

29 customer reviews

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7 October 2019

My fiance used Henry to do his head shot for work. They were together all of 15 minutes. That was plenty enough time for Henry to show his talent. My fiance's head shot was breath-taking. And it was just a head shot! It was a no-brainer to go to Henry again when my fiance was looking for someone to capture our special moment as he proposed to me in front of the Washington Monument at the Lincoln Memorial. The whole situation was a complete surprise to me, and the moments that Henry captured are invaluable. Once I knew that he had been there the whole time, I immediately became nervous that I wasn't "posed" well for the pictures. That didn't matter. Henry snapped the best pictures and took the entire time he was hired for to make sure that he optimized all views and lighting. This was my first time ever having professional pictures taken, and Henry definitely made sure that we were comfortable. We will be using him again! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

29 March 2019

I needed a professional head shot for corporate media. The entire process was fast and easy. Henry was very friendly and took some incredible pictures. I am extremely happy with the results! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

20 March 2019

Fantastic service. I needed a headshot for a new position with a quick turnaround, and Henry did a wonderful job of getting me the exact look I was aiming for.  The studio is classy and comfortable, and I got my shots within 2 days.  For the quality, price, and customer service, you can't go wrong here. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

27 February 2019

The only place you should get headshots in Alexandria ,Booking is easy and Henry is super easy to work with!!Great photographer. Pictures are quality and everything I expected. On of the best photographers in Old town Alexandria. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

29 December 2018

Henry did a great job with my social media sized picture! His studio was very cute and is located in a house on the second floor. There is parking on the side of the house in a designated parking spot. I booked my appointment completely online and showed up on the day with no problem. I will be back in the future for more photos and would recommend him to others! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

18 December 2018

This is quality work. I reached out to get ideas of reasonably priced photos, and while I got many replies, he included his work which is why I chose to go with him. And then wow - the quality of our photos with him. I'm no doubt getting more photos with him. We got so many good shots right off the bat I feel like was only in front of camera for less than 5 minutes and we had captured the look. I'm sure we could have gone longer, but didn't need to. He must have great equipment because the camera quality was great. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

29 November 2018

Mr. Spencer was on time, professional, and the quality and results of the photos were exceptional. He was great to work with and I definitely recommend utilizing his services. Mr. Spencer, thank you!

Reviewed on Google Maps

29 November 2018

Little or NothingHenry Spencer can make miracles happen! My oldest son surprised me with a visit from Denver. He would only be here for 32 hours. I contacted Henry, asking for him to update my family photo with my sons. No notice, no set, just get ready go!! And go he did! He produced our pictures with stunning a background, literally in my aunt’s front yard. The results are breathtaking. I last saw my oldest son 3 years ago, so being able to update our family photos were very precious to me. Thanks Henry for a job well done, well above well done. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

30 September 2018

Henry is a PRO at headshot photography. He was all set up for me with studio lighting and knew how to get me to look my best and the type of photo I wanted. He gave me a great selection to choose from. First time I paid a pro myself. my employers have had some at business events in the past..but the personalized experience and equipment in studio was worth it. Henry is easy to work with. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

20 August 2018

Henry is one of the most personable people you will ever meet. He will talk you through the process, make you feel comfortable, and your essence will shine through the portrait.

Reviewed on Yelp

2 July 2018

It was an absolute pleasure working with Henry! This was my first professional headshot experience, and it didn't disappoint. Henry coached me through different angles, and helped me capture a natural yet professional look. He was fun to work with! His studio is absolutely adorable - decor is super chic and the historical building is beautiful. One of the best aspects of his process is that you can review your photos in real time. Overall, the process was quick, online scheduling and payment was simple, and my final headshots were delivered electronically the next day. I highly recommend using Portraits by Spencer for your photography needs! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

2 July 2018

Henry is a fabulous photographer and a joy to work with! I had him take photos of my house --inside and out--and the gardens. They turned out superbly! He listened to my vision and made it happen. My husband and I are new to Alexandria and Portraits by Spencer will definitely be the company I go with for any future photography needs. Simply top rate!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

22 June 2018

I came here to get my headshot done for my Medical Residency application and I could not have asked for a better experience. The pictures all came out amazingly and will hopefully help me make a great impression on my interviews. I am a major perfectionist with terrible self esteem when it comes to having my picture taken, Mr. Spencer made the experience very comfortable and easy. This took a huge weight off of my shoulders during a very stressful time. I would definitely recommend anyone to have their pictures done here and I would definitely return if I ever need new pictures done. Thank you so much! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

28 May 2018

It was such a pleasure working with Henry Spencer of Portraits of Spencer. I was in serious need of professional branding photos for my business. Henry made me feel very relaxed and comfortable during the session. The quick turnaround time of the photos was INCREDIBLE! The finished product surpassed my expectations! All the photos, and I mean ALL the photos were AMAZING. Which made it so hard to make a selection. I would highly recommend Henry Spencer of Portraits of Spencer for social and professional photo sessions. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

28 May 2018

I drove over 1hr to have my pictures taken at Portraits by Spencer. I wanted to make sure that it was done by someone that truly saw Photography as an art. After I saw Henry's pictures, I knew he was not just a photographer, but an Artist. His studio is beautiful and welcoming. I felt so at peace. The end results were more than I imagined. I LOVED them. Thank you Henry for making my trip well worth it. Definitely will happen again. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

21 April 2018

Henry knows how to bring out the best in his subjects. He put me at ease, and has the skill to create just the right mood and expression. He's a pro and made the process painless, affordable and a pleasure. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

29 March 2018

This was the best portrait session I have ever had. I have had professional pictures taken many times for theater and personal branding reasons. Henry is by far the most personable and talented photographer I've worked with. Right from the start, he makes you feel comfortable, relaxed, and reassured that you're going to get the best pictures that reflect who you are - not some artificial version of yourself. All of the pictures Henry took were exquisite. He works with lighting and backgrounds to get the best photo of you and your unique style. If you are looking for the best photographer in Alexandria, look no further! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

27 March 2018

I found Portraits by Spencer during a Google search for headshot photography and was impressed with the quality of the photographs on the company’s website and the outstanding online reviews. Henry is a skilled photographer who takes great care in capturing his clients’ best expressions. He released the photographs in a timely manner, and I was very pleased with the final results. I would definitely consider using Portraits by Spencer for my future photography needs, and highly recommend Henry and his team to anyone seeking headshots or other photographs. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

verified
8 February 2018

Headshot Photographers

I picked Portraits by Spencer because of his aesthetic. I particularly appreciate how he captures his female subjects with a sense of warmth, approachability with a flare of their own personality peeking through. Henry had a tall order to fill. I am a hobbyist photographer, who prefers to be behind the camera. I know how to pose my subjects to make them look good but cannot apply those same techniques to myself. I'm awkward. :-) From the first point of contact, Henry was very prompt and professional. He asked poignant questions to identify my needs and goals for my headshots. We were able to expedite an appointment time at his studio very quickly and he was very accommodating to my busy schedule.
When I arrived, his studio is located in a beautiful old converted historic home with modern furnishings. His setup was nice, clean and welcoming. We chatted for a bit, I appreciated that he does this to dilute the awkwardness of having a complete stranger take photos of you. He's engaging, professional and very easy to talk to.
I admit I've always been overly critical of photos of myself. He got a shot that I was completely happy with within the first 10min. Talk about PRO! Then we spent the rest of my time, having some fun with less business-y photos. The result was, I walked away with a few additional photos that I was more than happy to pay extra for. His promptness and professionalism did not fall short he made good on his promise and delivered my color corrected photos within 24 hours. He was such a delight to work with and I implore you to use him. YES - I know Iphones have portrait mode but guess what, it still looks like you took the picture with an iphone. I wanted to invest in myself bc in order for my future employers to take me seriously, I want to communicate that I take myself seriously. After much research, I found Portraits by Spencer fees to be on par and I thought his fees were very reasonable for the level of service and quality of photos I got.
Take away from this: I will recommend him to any of my friends and encourage you to do the same. I have every intentions to use him when I need to update my headshots. Folks, there's no better investment than the investment in yourself. 5 well-deserved stars to Henry!
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Portraits by Spencer
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Reply from Portraits by Spencer

Alice, Thank you so much for the high grade!This lets me know that I'm doing the right thing by making it a true experience for my clients. Thank you in advance for your referrals and your repeat business. It was truly a joy working with you.

8 February 2018

I picked Portraits by Spencer because of his aesthetic. I particularly appreciate how he captures his female subjects with a sense of warmth, approachability with a flare of their own personality peeking through. Henry had a tall order to fill. I am a hobbyist photographer, who prefers to be behind the camera. I know how to pose my subjects to make them look good but cannot apply those same techniques to myself. I'm awkward. :-) From the first point of contact, Henry was very prompt and professional. He asked poignant questions to identify my needs and goals for my headshots. We were able to expedite an appointment time at his studio very quickly and he was very accommodating to my busy schedule.
When I arrived, his studio is located in a beautiful old converted historic home with modern furnishings. His setup was nice, clean and welcoming. We chatted for a bit, I appreciated that he does this to dilute the awkwardness of having a complete stranger take photos of you. He's engaging, professional and very easy to talk to.
I admit I've always been overly critical of photos of myself. He got a shot that I was completely happy with within the first 10min. Talk about PRO! Then we spent the rest of my time, having some fun with less business-y photos. The result was, I walked away with a few additional photos that I was more than happy to pay extra for. his promptness and professionalism did not fall short. He delivered my color corrected photos within a day. He was such a delight to work with and I implore you to use him. YES - I know Iphones have portrait mode but guess what, it still looks like you took the picture with an iphone. I wanted to invest in myself bc in order for my future employers to take me seriously, I want to communicate that I take myself seriously. After much research, I found Portraits by Spencer fees to be on par and I thought his fees were very reasonable for the level of service and quality of photos I got.
Take away from this: I will recommend him to any of my friends and encourage you to do the same. I have every intentions to use him when I need to update my headshots. Folks, there's no better investment than the investment in yourself. 5 well-deserved stars to Henry!
More...

30 January 2018

I highly recommend working with Henry Spencer. He is both friendly and accommodating. He worked with my budget and schedule to plan the photoshoot. The price was very reasonable. The whole process was quick and professional. I got the final product by the end of the day as promised and I love it! More...

Portraits by Spencer
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Reply from Portraits by Spencer

Thanks Rachel! We both were accommodating. You took the long trip just to have your session with me!

30 January 2018

I highly recommend working with Henry Spencer. He is both friendly and accommodating. He worked with my budget and schedule to plan the photoshoot. The price was very reasonable. The whole process was quick and professional. I got the final product by the end of the day as promised and I love it! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

22 January 2018

I have had the pleasure of working with Henry and was extremely pleased both times. The first occasion was my engagement and weddings photos which were amazing! Just last summer I reached back out to him because I needed headshots. Of course I needed them in 2 days which he has able to accomodate. You will not be disappointed working with Henry! I will add that I have a strong photography background having worked for Kodak in their professional photography division for more than five years so I know a professional photographer and quality work. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

7 January 2018

Henry Spencer showed up at the appointed time with his equipment for a remote session at our offices. In a very professional manner he setup his lighting and backdrops. He meticulously surveyed the surroundings of the designated conference room to find the most appropriate setting for my professional headshots. When I was in place, he directed me through a series of poses, shots and lighting arrangements displaying a calm and cordial demeanor toward me as his subject. The results were a group of professional headshots. Suitable for use as social media profile pictures, and professional corporate website and marketing bios. Henry is the best. His images speak for his mastery of portrait photography. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

4 January 2018

Henry from Portraits by Spencer took some headshots for me and I couldn't have been happier with the results and the process. He is a true professional and really skilled at putting you at ease and getting a great finished product. He gave me subtle direction that I think improved the images. He delivered quickly and made sure I was happy with the results. I would highly recommend him and hope to use his services again in the future. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

2 January 2018

Henry Spencer did a great job creating my business portrait. I love the outcome. He was very dependable when scheduling the shoot, and was very patient getting the angle and light just right - hiding my flaws that show up in other portraits. The prints and digital images were delivered in quick time, prices are reasonable, and I am very pleased with the result. I highly recommend his services! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

31 December 2017

Henry Spencer makes looking GREAT, possible! He takes inexperience and turns it into a comfortable and fun journey. My daughter and I were so incredibly pleased with the outcome of the session and to date it is our absolute favorite portrait. .. we won't need a better portrayal of us for decades. Thank you Portraits by Spencer! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

28 December 2017

It was such a pleasure working with Henry Spencer of Portraits of Spencer. I was in serious need of professional branding photos for my business. Henry made me feel very relaxed and comfortable during the session. The quick turnaround time of the photos was INCREDIBLE! The finished product surpassed my expectations! All the photos, and I mean ALL the photos were AMAZING. Which made it so hard to make a selection. I would highly recommend Henry Spencer of Portraits of Spencer for social and professional photo sessions. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

19 December 2017

I really cannot say enough about how wonderful our experience was with the photographer, Henry Spencer. I booked him for a mother & daughter portrait and we were blown away with the final products. Our session was fun and very comfortable! Highly recommended and we're using him again for all future private and professional needs! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Q&As

Just like any other craft, you have to practice and stay relevant. Photographing people is a very skilled job. Within a small amount of time, we have to connect with the client and learn what they are looking for. Then create a photo that makes them say "WOW", all the while delivering one of the greatest experience they've had in years so they will come back and tell their friends.

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What are 3 words others often used to describe you?

Portrait Session Preparation
Do you wear glasses? If so, are they glare resistant?(Optional)

What color backdrop do prefer? Black, White, Gray, Deep Blue?(Optional)

Have you taken a professional headshot before?

What types of images do you want from your session?

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Who is your ideal client?

What do you want these images to convey?

I enjoy making my clients look confident and poised while still coming across as friendly and approachable. I do this by focusing on their expressions and those expressions are the heart of my work.

People often tell me they’re not photogenic and I love proving to them that they are. My job is to direct and coach our clients into looking their best. Putting them at ease while we work on the subtle movements of their facial muscles. It is these subtleties that can make a headshot go from something ordinary to something spectacular.

Since elementary school, I've always been creative and artistic. My mother noticed my talent long ago but I was too busy trying to be a football and baseball star. In 2008, I picked up the camera ... and I haven't put it down since. I'm always looking for a creative way to compose an ordinary shot and make it extraordinary.

First and foremost, if my work is in line with your own vision then we may be a good fit for you. It is also important that you feel comfortable with how we work together because getting a great picture is a true collaboration. Ultimately, we want you to be happy with how you look in your headshot at the end of the day.