mateus studios

Vancouver Portrait Photographer

Where minimalism meets emotional depth

Editorial Portraits for Everyday People.

since 2015

artistic & minimalist

Hi, I’m Michele Mateus

Award Winning Vancouver portrait photographer creating intentional, intimate imagery for people in their slow living era, those who value authenticity over perfection. My work is emotional, simple, and editorial. No over-processed images, no beauty standards, just you as you are.

Vancouver & Beyond
604-562-7219 [email protected]
Personal Brand photo of Jodi Proznick, Juno nominated Jazz musician
vancouver portrait: jodi proznick
vancouver portrait editorial photographer michele mateus
Portrait of Shruti Ramani by Vancouver Editorial Portrait Photographer Michele Mateus

VANCOUVER PORTRAIT: SHRUTI RAMANI

for those who
laugh easily and
live thoughtfully.

Portrait of a black woman with an afro laughing taken by Vancouver Portrait photographer Michele Mateus
Portrait of a woman with short brown hair and red lips in slip ace top taken by portrait photographer Michele Mateus
Portrait of a woman with albinism with red curly hair by Vancouver Portrait Photographer Michele Mateus

VANCOUVER portrait: SUzanne

My approach

I believe portrait photography should be about connection, not conformity.
Whether we’re creating personal branding images or intimate portraits,
my process is the same: intentional, deeply personal, and collaborative.

I work with clients who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic, clean lines, thoughtful composition, emotional depth. People who are ready to be seen without filters, without pretense, without performing for the camera.

My style is editorial, raw, and understated.

I’m drawn to simplicity, to moments of quiet confidence, to images that feel timeless rather than trendy. I’m not for everyone, and that’s okay. I’m here for people who want portraits that feel like them, honest, elegant, and unapologetically real.

When I don’t have a camera in my hand you can find me experimenting in the kitchen with a groovy playlist, or vegging out with comedy shows and big bowl of popcorn with extra nooch!

More about me

vancouver portrait: Terra Nova

Vancouver Portrait Photographer Michele Mateus creates contemporary portraits of Vancouver Contemporary Dancers. Pictured here is dancer Shion Carter with a focus on their movement.

VANCOUVER portrait: Shion

  • Editorial Portrait of an women in her sixties on a vintage couch in a warehouse taken by vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus
    • Vancouver Boudoir Photographer Michele Mateus creates portraits of women embodying their feminine energy. PIctured here is a woman connecting with a flower in a meditative moment.

    vancouver portrait: Nicole

    PORTRAIT: celeste

    Vancouver Boudoir portrait of a brunette woman in an artistic effortless pose wearing gold jewelry posed on a hand painted canvas backdrop

    I’m Here to Help You

    Frequently asked Questions

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

    I offer personal brand photography and intimate portraits, 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.

    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 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.

    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. Sessions start at $1,300 and range to $2,500 depending on your needs.

    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.

    BOOK A CONSULTATION