vancouver portrait photographer

expect depth in the work.
Ease in the EXPERIENCE.

portrait photography rooted in the art of simplicity

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Vancouver Boudoir portrait of a brunette woman in an artistic effortless pose wearing gold jewelry posed on a hand painted canvas backdrop
Black and white portrait of Ava Shadmani photographed by Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus — bold, minimal, and timeless
Lifestyle portrait of black woman posed on a chair in soft romantic mood and natural styling
Contemporary black and white portrait of a blonde woman with short hair in a black dress photographed by Vancouver Portrait Photographer Michele Mateus

Hi, I’m Michele!

Award-winning Vancouver photographer. I work with people who want portraits with soul and a little swagger, rooted in the art of simplicity. Think effortlessly cool and vibrantly alive, that’s the vibe we are going for.

I specialize in black and white photography, offering lifestyle personal branding, intimate portraits and artistic studio portraits.

I am not for everyone. I’m here for those who value artistry over conformity, honesty over perfection, depth over likes. If that aligns with you let’s work together.

let’s chat

awards & features

portrait masters . rangefinder . Bold Journey . By the north

“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

Black and white portrait of contemporary dancer Shion Carter photographed by Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus
Black and white minimalist portrait of woman wearing a white tank top while laughing with contemporary styling
Mature woman in black and white artistic portrait with creative composition and styling
old portrait by Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus — personal branding and creative portrait photography
Woman in open vest revealing tummy artistic intimate portrait
  • : Vancouver boudoir portrait of woman on hand-painted canvas backdrop wearing vintage pattern lingerie
black and white portrait of a woman wearing a black suit with a white hoodie sweater and white converse sneakers sitting on a concrete floor with a brick wall. photo taken by vancouver portrait photographer michele mateus
Black and white portrait of Shruti Ramani against a artistic canvas backdrop wearing a white tank top and suspenders with black pants, photographed by Michele Mateus
Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus captures dancer Natalie in intimate expressive studio portrait
Black and white fine art portrait of a Black Woman by Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus
Fine art portrait of a woman, self-acceptance photography session by Michele Mateus Vancouver
fine art nude image of woman's back, hair falling down back and hand on her arm
Black and white portrait of a Black woman photographed by Vancouver portrait photographer Michele Mateus

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 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.

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!

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