Black and white studio portrait of contemporary dancer Shion Carter photographed by Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus

Vancouver Editorial Photographer Michele Mateus shows a portrait of older woman posed sitting on edge of sofa in rusty brown dress

Intimate & RAW

Vancouver Portrait Photographer

michele mateus / since 2015

portraits with soul & swagger

Portrait of a white woman with long black hair in a white blouse by Vancouver Portrait Photographer Michele Mateus

Black and white fine art portrait of a Black Woman by Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus

work with me

SEEN IN

portrait masters . rangefinder . CBC . By the north . Ripple of Change. Between the Covers. Bold Journey

“If I could give one million stars, I would. Michele is the best of the best. Not only is she technically skilled with shooting, lighting, posing and more, she creates the most amazing atmosphere just because of the person she is. And not every photographer has that.”

Adrienne Miller

Vancouver portrait editorial photographer creates sophisticated image of owman sittin on floor leaning casually against a chair with timeless styling

Black and white portrait of Diego, non binary vancouver model by vancouver photographer Michele Mateus

minimalist

but never boring

work with me

Portrait of a nude woman sitting on a wooden chair with her legs pulled up top her chest by Vancouver Fine art portrait photographer Michele Mateus

Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus captures dancer Natalie in intimate expressive studio portrait

Hi’ I’m Michele!

Award winning Vancouver Portrait Photographer, known for my laid back approach, published for my editorial eye. My work is intimate, raw and intentional.

I believe the human experience is beautifully messy, and that all parts of ourselves deserve to exist in portraits.

But I have to tell you honestly, I am not the photographer for everyone.

I am for free spirits, who appreciate artistry over conformity. Those who run on their own frequency, ready to ditch perfection for presence.

I welcome your vivacious energy, sensual self expression, and the quietly poetic sides of you, to create wildly alive portraits that embody a full reflection of you.

work with me

Frequently asked questions

Artistry over conformity, always. I’m not interested in making you look perfect. I’m interested in making you look like yourself, on your best, most alive day. That’s the whole philosophy.

Intentional, minimalist, and editorial. My work is simple and artistic. No over-processed images, no beauty standards, just you.
I focus on emotional depth and timeless imagery over trends

I offer personal brand photography and editorial portraits and a contemporary approach to boudoir photography, though I try not to stuff people into a genre box, offering photoshoot experiences where you can explore a full range of yourself. Your final portraits can be used for personal use as art in your home or on your website.

I work with a range of people, from purpose-driven professionals needing personal branding to individuals seeking intimate portraits.
My clients value authenticity, appreciate a minimalist aesthetic, and are ready to be seen as they truly are.

I’m based in Vancouver, BC and work with clients locally in my studio as well as on location throughout the Lower Mainland.

Yes absolutely! Depending on your location a travel fee may be applied.

Every session includes a pre-session style consultation, a 2-hour photoshoot in studio or on location, and a neuro-affirming approach.
There’s no pressure, just exploration and fun.

I make portrait sessions feel less like “getting your photo taken” and more like hanging out with a friend who happens to have a camera.
My easy-going, playful energy helps you relax and be yourself. The connection we build shows up in every image.

Hair and makeup is optional. I can arrange professional services for you, or you’re welcome to come exactly as you are.

I keep my pricing tranparent and easy to understand, you can view my full pricing menu HERE

Ideally, 3 weeks in advance to ensure availability and time for our pre-session consultation.

I typically work on weekends, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

Your final gallery will typcially be delivered within 2 weeks of your session.

Your comfort is important to me! I ask consent from all my clients around their sharing preferences, the choice will be all yours.

let’s do this!