julie-adams-portrait

Blackwood Castle

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 20:13:07 GMT

featuring designs by Chelsey Ceja

I'm in love with the elegant and dark vibes of this photo shoot for Blackwood Castle featuring Chelsey Ceja! Chelsey is so sweet and fun but she (at first) felt nervous to be in front of the camera, which you would never guess by looking at the results. That is one of the things I am so proud to do for my clients - when my subject comes in worried they will be "awkward" or "not photogenic" but they leave looking and feeling like a total movie star. ��

Chelsey designed the pants and top in collaboration with Blackwood Castle, and styled it up with some of her favorite accessories.

Adding the gloves, glasses, and head scarf took this look to the next level! It was giving old Hollywood with an edge...

I knew that the contrast of the black outfit on my white wall in the natural light would look stunning!

Then we stepped outside into the afternoon sunshine... I have a big field with trees that were bare in the winter for a beautiful woodsy backdrop. The sky was bright blue, but I brought the tones down for a more moody look.

Last but not least, we went back inside and brought out one of my favorite things, my fog machine! ��

This is what it looks like when a creative collaborator sees their vision come to life! Thoughtful direction, strong visuals, and a process that actually feels easy. Hearing that we knocked it out of the park directly from the model, who also designed the pieces, is so special and rewarding. Thank you Chelsey and Blackwood Castle for trusting me with this editorial!��

Halloween Editorial

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 04:25:03 GMT

Our Halloween editorial tradition continues!

My full production team at 24 Creative came together for an epic Halloween project that let us go all in creatively. The concept followed a mummy reawakening, slowly unraveling, and ultimately revealing a striking, glam look beneath it all. It was a beautiful mix of storytelling, transformation, and impactful visuals, and one of those shoots where everyone brought their A-game.

Production team: 24 Creative

Model: Emmaline Chappell

Designer: Model Haven Design Group

Photographer: Julie Adams

Lead Production + Stylist: Aliyah Coley

Stylist Assistant: Aaliyah Ponton

Hair Stylist: Dajour Artis

Mua: Dominique J. (Ashley Taylor Studios)

Videography: Jason Brown

Creative Direction: Steffene Cheeks

Fun fact - the gown was made almost entirely from bedsheets! Our designer D'An did an incredible job creating this look with the corset top, structured hip shape, frayed edges, and extra long skirt.

We just needed to dirty it up, so we went outside and rubbed coffee grounds into the dress, and soaked the extra gauze strips we were using later in coffee grounds and water.

We actually shot the story in reverse, to capture the full glam and full gown first. Then we partially wrapped up the gown and the model's arms with more strips of bedsheet and gauze, and finally shot the fully wrapped look last.

Why shoot it in reverse? Because the full wrap would mess with the hair and makeup, and we needed that to be perfect for the unraveled reveal!

One thing I knew I wanted to capture in this shoot was an eerie, blurred shot by using a longer exposure. I used a strobe along with a constant light, and had the model hold still first, then move as the photo was still taking.

Even though our model was already very tall, with the extra long skirt we placed her on a box to create a whimsically long silhouette.

Here is our videographer Jason Brown's edit:

Sassy Jones - Handbags

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:40:16 GMT

location: DOWNTOWN RICHMOND, VIRGINIA

goals: E-COMMERCE, SOCIAL MEDIA, MARKETING

models: BRICKELL FRENCH, IESHA MASON

photographer: JULIE ADAMS

wardrobe stylist: ALIYAH COLEY

assistant: ASPEN BROWN

For this lifestyle handbag shoot, we used the streets of our home city! And myCNTR provided the perfect HQ for us to meet and get ready.

Aliyah styled the models while I did some product-only shots, then we walked to a few spots I had picked out on my location scouting mission.

I love creating GIFs for my clients... they are so eye-catching and can usually be inserted anywhere on your website, emails, etc where a still image can go (like I did for the cover image of this page!) It's a quick and less expensive alternative to video, and they work awesomely for short, looping reels.

Take a peek behind the scenes… this all-female shoot was so much fun & a what FABULOUS team to work with!

Galassi + Luxury Professionals

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 22:27:06 GMT

location: JULIE ADAMS' STUDIO

goals: E-COMMERCE, SOCIAL MEDIA + MARKETING, EDITORIAL

models: BELLA BISHOP, ASPEN BROWN, MARIANA CRAVER

photographer: JULIE ADAMS

videographer: DEREK FARMER

creative director: BELLA BISHOP

This was my 3rd time working with Bella on an editorial shoot for her brand; we always seamlessly connect creatively and have so much fun making the visions come to life!

This collection was a collaboration between her boutique Galassi and Luxury Professionals, with the looks being sold in both shops. It was a Valentine's Day editorial representing self-love, self-expression, and confidence, which was a PERFECT alignment with my brand and mission as well.

The natural light in my studio is stunning for video as well! Derek Farmer was on set to create a documentary-style interview video to tell the story behind the collection.

Lingerie Editorial

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 11:25:18 GMT

location: LINDEN ROW INN

goals: EDITORIAL, VALENTINE'S DAY CAMPAIGN

production team: 24 CREATIVE

model: JASMYN WILLIAMSON

photographer: JULIE ADAMS

directors: STEFFENE CHEEKS + LEILANI KABIGTING

hair: DAJOUR ARTIS

makeup: NAYA CAIN

wardrobe stylist: ALIYAH COLEY

styling assistant: DE'QUAN MADYSON

necklaces: SODR3AM

coat: TRAVIAN VANN

This editorial shoot brought the feminine, sensual energy that we wanted to celebrate for this Valentine's Day. We had a pretty tiny hotel room to work with (and a big team of people) but we made it WORK and are obsessed with the results!

Sassy Jones - Beauty

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 05:03:09 GMT

location: JULIE ADAMS' STUDIO

goals: HOLIDAY EDITORIAL, SOCIAL MEDIA, E-COMMERCE

production team: 24 CREATIVE PRODUCTIONS

models: PARIS HOLMES, JAYDUHHH, PHANTASIA MASON

photographer: JULIE ADAMS

wardrobe stylist: ALIYAH COLEY

hair stylist: MARY PUGH

makeup artist: JASMINE MOOS

creative director: STEFFENE CHEEKS

co creative director: LEILANI KABIGTING

The holiday vibes were in full effect for this beauty shoot featuring Sassy Jones lipsticks and glosses! Our models prepped with the beauty team while we set up and took some product photos. This was all at my studio, and I also made a collection of short iPhone video clips, which are perfect for reels and social media. Here’s a peek behind the scenes….

Then we changed into these super cute & cozy pajamas for group shots and switched to a white backdrop… these were maybe my favorite shots of the day! Just beautiful and the girls were genuinely having a great time.

Man's Best Friend

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 17:43:02 GMT

this was my second time doing portraits with this dapper duo...

... so I knew it would be great! Matt always takes his bestie on his travels, hikes, and our photo shoots.

Maternity Wardrobe Inspiration

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 19:50:11 GMT

need some ideas for your maternity shoot?

These are some of my favorite maternity looks for your inspo!

1. Clean & Classic

Neutral colors and clean silhouettes make for a stunning maternity portrait.

2. floating fabrics

Gowns or skirts with extra length are SO fun to play with and toss in the wind of my fans!

Below you can see how we started with one of my infinity dresses, then we added on my huge tulle skirt for some beautiful volume and movement:

3. draping

I have lots of different colored silk, chiffon, and tulle fabrics at the studio - I know how to drape them beautifully around you for a gorgeous, sexy silhouette!

4. Headpieces & accessories

Add some extra fairytale magic to your photo shoot with a halo crown, flower crown, body jewelry...

bonus: my studio collection

Below you can see some of my gowns I keep at the studio, all available to use for your session!

Where to shop online?

My FAVORITE online shop for maternity wardrobe is Mii Estilo! Check them out for more GORGEOUS gowns, bodysuits, and other pieces that would be amazing for your shoot.

And for headpieces and accessories, I love to shop on Etsy !

The Toddler Challenge

julie@julieadamsportrait.com (Julie Adams) — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 19:58:53 GMT

How can you do successful family portraits with an energetic toddler?

I'm sure you've tried a few times at home, and you may have found that it's no easy task when your little one is just not interested in sitting still OR looking at the camera OR making a nice smile...

I have a lot of photographer friends, and a lot of them tell me they do NOT enjoy the challenge of taking family portraits involving little kids and toddlers. But I actually love it! I'm down for the challenge, and I have the patience and skills needed to make it happen. Here are my 3 tips for your next family photo shoot!

tip #1 - add a prop

A prop that your kiddo can safely hold and enjoy can work wonders, while also adding a personal touch to the photos. Here are some ideas:

Fake florals
Favorite blanket
Special stuffed animal

tip #2 - playtime

Take a look at how we channeled this little one's energy into a series of candid, fun photos. Mom absolutely LOVED these and so did I!

TIP #3 - don't stress

My family portrait sessions are never rushed or constrained to a short time period, and you can trust me to get the shots, whatever it takes!

they're growing fast... don't wait!

Book a free call today.

I can't wait to create something special for your family!

With love,

julie adams

A Soft Glam & Boudoir Photo Shoot

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 12:47:22 GMT

on a down-pouring summer day like this one was...

I was feeling EXTRA grateful to have my INDOOR playground, AKA my studio! I had recently met Adrienne at a networking event, and we were both excited to do a boudoir shoot together.

Based on our pre-planning & wardrobe for the session, I put together these two new sets and we flowed from there.

My amazing friend Nicole Gore was in house for makeup! I love Nicole, she is so talented and fun to work with.

We have done a ton of photo shoots together, even traveling down to the Florida coast, sharing some stressful airport adventures and AM tequila shots!

MY FABRICS!

Not gonna lie, I splurged on my collection of silk, chiffon, and tulle fabrics for my studio, in a variety of colors!

And I LOVE draping them around your body and using the beautiful movement of the materials.

WE ADDED A BODY CHAIN

and OMG! I just love the delicate, sparkly touch.

FINALLY, I WANTED TO PHOTOGRAPH

Adrienne in one of the vintage nighties from my studio collection!

Mixing vintage with contemporary is something I love...

and helloooo beautiful gloomy day window light!!

LOOKBOOK: 4 IDEAS FOR FASHION-STYLE SENIOR PORTRAITS

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 22:50:22 GMT

what to wear, what to wear?!

That is always one of the biggest questions… but also one of the most fun parts about planning a session!

Check out my 4 favorite ideas for your Senior Portrait inspiration...

1. COOL & CASUAL

Favorite jeans that you feel great in

Fun shoes, accessories, hats, etc!

Textures and colors - You can keep it simple and classic with neutrals, or look for interesting textures and colors that you love. BUT - avoid busy or very bold prints - those don't work great for portraits.

2. prom dress

NO DRESS? NO PROBLEM!

I have a collection of amazing gowns in my studio... these are a few of them...

3. INFINITY DRESSES!

If you know me, you know I love them. I have like 8 different colors at the studio!

These are so fun to play with, making different necklines, sleeves, & adding embellishments!

AND FINALLY...

4. CREATIVE & COUTURE

Think outside the box!

Feeling a vintage-style look? Yes please!

A set loaded with florals? Love it.

Abstract or artsy? I am DOWN!

I have a huge collection of flowers, amazing fabrics, and other fun photo tricks for us to play with.

THE OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS - AND MAYBE OVERWHELMING...

but that's why I'm here to help! Everyone gets a free Wardrobe Consultation with my photo shoots.

BOOK YOUR SESSION TODAY!

a luxury estate, 2 ballerinas, & a gold award

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 18:58:16 GMT

AS SOON AS I BEGAN PHOTOGRAPHING ANNA & ELLA, I KNEW WE WERE GOING TO CREATE SOMETHING SPECIAL....

And I was right. With only a couple days until the deadline for the International Portrait Masters Awards, I knew I wanted to submit one of these for the Movement category. We are not supposed to submit similar images in a round, so I had to pick just one for now. A Silver Award is REALLY hard to win, that is always my goal, and the judging is very tough. There have only been a few Gold Awards given in each round, for the most extraordinary portraits out of thousands of submissions, and I never ever EVER thought that would include me...

Let's rewind to the shoot day! These two girls from the Richmond Ballet are INSANELY talented, effortlessly graceful, and a joy to work with. This was my first time photographing dancers in motion like this, something I had wanted to do for a long time. I normally shoot in my own studio, but after doing a few fashion shoots at the Estate at River Run, I was itching to create some of my own portraits there.

IT WAS VALENTINE'S DAY,

and my beautiful ballet dancers arrived (we did 3 other amazing shoots that day, but more on those later in another post!). The girls got a gorgeous soft glam look from my makeup artist Jahara , then we started with my #1 vision, the ballroom. With the gorgeous backlight of the windows, I just added one of my lights to fill in the front. We played with different movements, poses, jumps, and my assistant Sarah was fabric tossing and fan-blowing... just SO fun for all of us!

OF COURSE, I ALSO WANTED TO DO SOME DARKER & MOODIER PORTRAITS OF MY DANCERS, SO WE VENTURED TO SOME OF MY OTHER FAVORITE SPOTS IN THE ESTATE.....

& THIS ONE IS MY CHILDHOOD MUSIC BOX

coming to life...

AND HERE IS THE GOLD AWARD WINNER ...

I was on the phone with my husband, telling him I was about to get my scores after a couple months of eagerly waiting, when I refreshed the page and started screaming as I saw GOLD AWARD! Like WHAT it still doesn't feel real to me, but I guess it is. There were over 4800 images submitted, and 6 gold were awarded (!!!!), and I was SO close to winning the Movement category , placing 2nd behind one other incredible photograph. The same image also won a Silver Award from another organization, WPE International Photography Awards, and placed top 30 in the Sports category .

I'm feeling pretty excited to keep trying new things and see what happens next, so STAY TUNED! If you're a dancer and you're interested in doing something like this, don't hesitate to reach out , because I would LOVE to make that dream come true for you.

julie-adams-portrait

Blackwood Castle

featuring designs by Chelsey Ceja

Halloween Editorial

Our Halloween editorial tradition continues!

Sassy Jones - Handbags

Galassi + Luxury Professionals

Lingerie Editorial

Sassy Jones - Beauty

Man's Best Friend

this was my second time doing portraits with this dapper duo...

Maternity Wardrobe Inspiration

need some ideas for your maternity shoot?

1. Clean & Classic

2. floating fabrics

3. draping

4. Headpieces & accessories

bonus: my studio collection

Where to shop online?

The Toddler Challenge

How can you do successful family portraits with an energetic toddler?

tip #1 - add a prop

tip #2 - playtime

TIP #3 - don't stress

﻿ they're growing fast... don't wait!

Book a free call today.

I can't wait to create something special for your family!

With love,

julie adams

A Soft Glam & Boudoir Photo Shoot

on a down-pouring summer day like this one was...

MY FABRICS!

WE ADDED A BODY CHAIN

FINALLY, I WANTED TO PHOTOGRAPH

LOOKBOOK: 4 IDEAS FOR FASHION-STYLE SENIOR PORTRAITS

what to wear, what to wear?!

1. COOL & CASUAL

2. prom dress ﻿

NO DRESS? NO PROBLEM!

3. INFINITY DRESSES!

AND FINALLY...

4. CREATIVE & COUTURE

THE OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS - AND MAYBE OVERWHELMING...

BOOK YOUR SESSION TODAY!

a luxury estate, 2 ballerinas, & a gold award

AS SOON AS I BEGAN PHOTOGRAPHING ANNA & ELLA, I KNEW WE WERE GOING TO CREATE SOMETHING SPECIAL....

IT WAS VALENTINE'S DAY,

OF COURSE, I ALSO WANTED TO DO SOME DARKER & MOODIER PORTRAITS OF MY DANCERS, SO WE VENTURED TO SOME OF MY OTHER FAVORITE SPOTS IN THE ESTATE.....

& THIS ONE IS MY CHILDHOOD MUSIC BOX

AND HERE IS THE GOLD AWARD WINNER ...

SEE YOURSELF IN A NEW LIGHT

Get in touch today,

and let's make some magic!

julie adams

they're growing fast... don't wait!

2. prom dress