I’m Steve - A Professional Photographer With Over 25 Years of Experience
In Frederick, MD serving DC, MD, VA
Capturing Weddings, Mitzvahs & Commercial Branding with Soulful Precision
My Photography Style & Process
Technique and emotion should never compete — they should move as one.
Here’s how I make that happen on every shoot.
Lighting That Flatters
Whether natural or controlled, I shape light to enhance mood — not overpower it.
Direction When You Need It
I step in with guidance when it’s helpful — and step back when the moment takes over.
Invisible When It Counts
Quiet, journalistic coverage that captures real emotion without interrupting it.
Images With Purpose
Whether personal or commercial, every shot is designed to be used — not forgotten.
Services at a Glance
-
![Bride and groom at Dulaney with classic car and powerful lighting by Whysall Pho]()
Weddings
Your wedding day is a collection of moments — laughter, tears, quiet glances, and joyful celebrations. I capture it all, creating a beautiful, timeless documentary that tells the story of your love and the people who share it with you.
With a photojournalistic approach, I focus on the real emotions and personalities that make your day unique, preserving memories you’ll treasure forever.
Each wedding includes two photographers, capturing every angle and perspective so no moment goes unseen.
-
![Bat Mitzvah girl held high in chair by Whysall Photography]()
Mitzvahs
A Bar or Bat Mitzvah is more than a ceremony — it’s a milestone, a celebration of years of learning, and the beginning of a new chapter in life.
I capture every laugh, every glance, every moment of connection — all without ever interrupting the day’s flow.
From the sacred ceremony to the joyous celebration afterward, my mitzvah photography packages are designed to preserve the moments that matter most.
Let me tell your family’s story — naturally, beautifully, and as it unfolds.
-
![Food photo with blue gel background by Steve Whysall Photograp]()
Commercial
Whether you’re building a brand or updating your family album, I create purposeful, elevated images that connect.
My commercial photography spans fitness, gourmet food, headshots, products, real estate, and advertising, delivering visuals that make an impact.
With expert lighting, I bring your website, products, and people to life. From soft, even illumination to bold, edgy setups with vibrant colors, I tailor each shot to make your subject pop and stand out in the frame.
-
![studio portraits whysall photography]()
Portraits
Capture More Than a Moment — Define a Legacy
With over two decades behind the lens, I don’t just take portraits — I craft stories. Trained at The Corcoran and mentored in lighting by National Geographic, my work balances art and realism to reveal the essence of who you are.
Serving Frederick County, MD and the greater MD / DC / VA region, I specialize in senior portraits, child & pet portraits, studio sessions, and family portraits. Whether you want something artsy, playful, dramatic, or timeless — let’s make an image that speaks.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER WITH CREDENTIALS?
Educated at The Corcoran for Creative Compositions
Trained by National Geographic For Expert Lighting Techniques
Client Praise
-
--Chau
“We have heard from so many family members, friends, and coworkers tell us that our photos are the best photos they have ever seen.”
-
--Tee
“Steve is not only an artist, a visionary, a professional and a perfectionist when it comes to his craft, he is a genuinely nice and caring human being.”
-
--Beth
“Wow! Walking around in the studio feels like being inside of a National Geographic magazine.”
-
--Devi
“Steve was wonderful to work with! His creativity really brought our products to life.”
This was Photographed for Audubon Magazine
The photos below were also shot for Audubon. Watch the landscape change with the light changing.
There’s No Substitute for Great Lighting
In photography — whether commercial, portrait, or wedding — lighting isn’t just an element of the image. It is the image.
Over the years, I’ve mastered when to rely on natural light and when artificial lighting is essential. Strobes have their place, but nothing competes with the warmth and authenticity of golden-hour sunlight. The real skill lies in knowing when to use each. Sometimes the best decision isn’t adding more light — it’s recognizing the perfection of the light already around you.
Professional photography is where art meets science. Composition is the art. Exposure is the science. Blend them with intention, and you elevate an image from ordinary to extraordinary.
When training my assistants, I emphasize the technical fundamentals — aperture, shutter speed, and depth of field — but I always return to one core principle: lighting is everything.
You don’t just see the light — you feel it. You become aware of how it wraps around a subject, how it shifts throughout the day, and how a location can transform under different conditions.
Great photographers don’t just chase moments — they chase light.
And the more you learn to notice it in everyday life, the stronger your instincts become behind the lens.
Remember to Turn Around When Shooting
Yes, the art lies in composition — knowing what to frame and when to press the shutter.
Yes, I’ve said that the science is in mastering light — because great lighting isn’t accidental; it’s engineered.
That’s why professional photographers are always aware of where the light is coming from.
Sometimes, the most powerful photographs happen when you’re not looking for them — or even facing the right direction.
While shooting in Sedona with renowned NATGEO photographer Richard Nowitz, a storm suddenly rolled in. We grabbed our gear and ran for cover. Within minutes, the storm passed, and the sky exploded with that golden, post-storm glow.
Something made me turn around.
There it was — a single red tree blazing against the glowing sky. We forgot the shot we planned to take and captured the one we never expected.
That image became a portfolio favorite — all because we stopped and looked behind us.
Timeless Wedding Photography Client Reviews
-
868 Estates Vineyard
The most under-rated and perhaps brilliant photographer within the D.C. Metropolitan area. I simply cannot recommend a better or more talented individual for any of your photography needs. Whysall Photography is hands down, the best kept secret in Northern Virginia. Your pictures will turn out remarkable, trust me! ((:-”
— Amy
-
Breaux Vineyard
Steve is absolutely fantastic. He will give you art. I honestly want to hang his pictures everywhere. I was completely surprised at how quickly he took pictures after the wedding. This guy knows what he is doing. His assistant Patrick is great as well. I wanted someone who wouldn’t just take still shots of everyone, and more candid, and he gave me exactly what I wanted. The moments he caught are magical.
— Cathleen
-
Bluemont Vineyard
Steve is AWESOME! He is edgy, creative, and far from your traditional photographer! He has an amazing eye and great vision! Great traditional pictures and breathtaking edgy pictures with flair, but still family appropriate. Such a true pleasure to work with! We would recommend him to all our friends and family! Best photographer EVER!!!!!
— Suzy
Gold Award Winning Photographer
Steve Whysall is the winner of The Gold and The Silver Award in international competitions sponsored by the Artistic Guild of the Wedding Photojournalist Associations. (AG)WPJA is comprised of outstanding wedding photographers.
How I shoot
Cinematic Mood
I don’t just light what’s in front of me — I sculpt it. Every frame should feel like a still from a film you want to step into. I have done this consistently, reliably, and professionally over the last 25+ years.
Documentary Truth
No stiff poses. No fake moments. I wait for the split-second when something real happens — and those are the ones I keep.
Human Connection
The best photos don’t come from the camera — they come from trust. I make people comfortable, so they forget they’re being photographed.
When your wedding day is over, all you have are your memories and your photos
Once the music fades and the guests go home, your photographs will be the lasting record of your wedding day. That’s why choosing an experienced photographer is essential — someone who can capture every breathtaking moment beautifully and intentionally.
Do You Really Need Two Photographers for Your Wedding?
Yes — if you want it done right.
Most couples ask me this question, and my answer is always the same: a single photographer simply can’t be in two places at once.
Here’s what two professionals make possible:
While I'm photographing the bride getting ready, my fully trained second photographer is with the groom and groomsmen.
During the ceremony, one of us focuses on you walking down the aisle while the other captures your partner’s reaction.
Throughout the reception, we cover both candid moments and wide-angle storytelling shots — without missing a thing.
Even if you book me for a shorter package, I always bring a second shooter or assistant — because that’s how I create the magazine-quality images my couples choose me for. Lighting, timing, and angles all require teamwork.
Worried About the Cost?
Don’t be. My pricing remains competitive with other photographers in Frederick — even with two professionals included. You can compare for yourself on my Pricing Page, where I’ve listed local industry averages for transparency.
Want to Know What It’s Really Like Working With Me?
Visit my FAQ page, where I answer the top questions real brides and grooms have asked over the years — including what to expect on the wedding day.
Your love story deserves full coverage — not half of it.
Let’s make sure every moment is captured beautifully, from both sides of the aisle.
A Few Commercial Photography Client Reviews
-
![The Perfect Gourmet shoot of food with blue gel background photo steve whysall]()
The Perfect Gourmet Review
“I was searching for a local photographer to do food photos for our website, and talked to several before deciding to work with Steve— whom I chose because he was the most pleasant, had the most experience, and was a former chef! I definitely made the right decision. I’ve worked with him on three separate occasions now, and have had nothing but wonderful experiences. He is professional, accommodating, and super fun to work with— as is his assistant. He was able to translate our vision (which was admittedly vague at times) into gorgeous photos that we are very excited to showcase on our new website. Cannot say enough good things, and would definitely recommend his services. Thank you, Steve”
— Clare
-
![GWSPA REVIEW Doctors performing surgery with orange gel backround by steve whysall photo]()
GWSPA REVIEW
I can’t quite remember how I happened upon this photographer, but I am so very glad that I did! We hired him to take photos of our staff and facilities for our Doctor’s office and he definitely exceeded our expectations.
The work that he does with lighting alone is simply incredible. He gave us amazing corporate head shots, group shots, and action shots to name a few.
His patience and professionalism during a day long shoot with almost 20 women was extremely admirable. Take a look through his amazing portfolio and see his work for yourself. I would definitely recommend him for anyone’s big occasion.
— Alexis
-
![Head Shot Review photo of gregg in blue white striped shirt shot in photography studio by steve whysall]()
Head Shot Review
Spectacular personal service. Extremely creative, and an absolute pleasure to work with. Far exceeded any expectation I had. Steve is a pro and won’t stop until he gets the shot(s) that satisfy your taste.
— Gregg
Commercial Client Photo Shoot Example
Client Vision VS My Vision
My client, Genius Jerky, wanted a clean, simple, photoshoot of his genius jerky bags.
As we interacted in my studio during the shoot, I learned about all the ingredients he included that made his jerky special. At that moment I realized that simply shooting his bags was not powerful enough to sell his product. While I continued shooting his bags, I sent him to the grocery store to pick up some ingredients I gave him to get for the shoot. For about $50 he changed the entire presentation of his product….and he was so glad he did!
There’s nothing wrong with this image. It’s simple. It’s clean. It shows his product. But, it could be so much stronger of a sales pitch with a little more tweaking.
I don’t know about your thoughts, but I think this vision shows off the ingredients in a much more powerful way.
This is one of many resons why a seasoned professional is good for your brand marketing messages.
Shot for Frederick Magazine
Why Hire Out of State When High-End Quality Is Right Here in Frederick County?
You don’t need to bring in an expensive photographer from New York or Washington, D.C. to get magazine-worthy images. I deliver that same high-end craftsmanship — right here in Frederick County, Maryland and the surrounding region.
A Proven, Published Professional
My work has been featured across major outlets in the DMV. While studying at the Corcoran Gallery of Art, my thesis project was published by The Washington Post, multiple TV stations, and local newspapers.
I’ve also collaborated with National Geographic photographer Richard Nowitz, which led to further publications — and my wedding work has been featured in Bridal Magazine and other publications.
My Philosophy: Treat Every Client Like a Cover Story
I’m proud to be a published photographer, and I bring that same editorial standard to every session. Whether I’m shooting a wedding or a commercial campaign, I photograph every client like they’re stepping into a magazine spread.
Why Hire a Professional Photographer?
With today’s high-end cameras, it’s easy to assume anyone can take professional-quality photos. But the truth is, a camera — no matter how advanced — is just a tool. Photography is still about understanding light, composition, and exposure. Shooting on auto or “P mode” doesn’t make someone a professional. Years of training and hands-on experience are what create consistent, magazine-quality results.
Knowing when to shoot vertical versus horizontal, how to position subjects, or how to make a product truly pop comes from experience, not just a “good eye.”
Imagine how much stronger your website, marketing materials, or product images would look with professionally crafted photography.
My Commercial Photography Services
I specialize in:
Fitness
Gourmet Food
Headshots
Mitzvahs and Portraits
Products & Jewelry
I approach every commercial shoot as if it will appear in a magazine, ensuring your brand is represented with the highest standard of professionalism.
Small, delicate items like jewelry require specialized techniques. Every stone must sparkle, every detail must be in focus. This can’t be achieved by simply shooting next to a window. It takes professional training, precise lighting, and mastery of focus to create images that sell.
I Am Not a “Natural Light” Photographer
A true professional understands when to use natural light and when to create light with equipment. You hire me for my ability to control light, not rely on it. The subtlety and complexity of professional lighting is a skill that is disappearing in today’s digital-focused photography schools. I learned photography the old-school way — shooting film, developing in a darkroom, and learning from experienced mentors — giving me a depth of technical knowledge that ensures consistent results in any scenario.
Don’t Be Fooled
When comparing photographers, don’t just look at pretty images. Ask to see a portfolio under:
Rainy or overcast days
Bright sunlight
Low-light or evening conditions
This demonstrates whether a photographer can handle a full-day session and adapt to every lighting scenario.
The Most Important Part of Being a Professional
Beyond technical skill, the best photographers build relationships with clients. I work closely with you to understand your vision, showcase your products, and create imagery that drives sales and elevates your brand.
Whether you’re marketing products online, updating a website, or creating advertising materials, professional photography is the difference between standing out and being overlooked.
Commercial & Advertising Photography — Done Right.
My Journey as a Photographer
Steve and his dog, Pheonix
While studying at The Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., I completed my senior thesis by volunteering at the Kensington Fire Department. Over two years, I documented the firefighters’ daily lives and emergency responses, creating a powerful portfolio that was featured on local TV, The Washington Post, and across the DMV.
Some of my most memorable shots came during a three-alarm commercial fire, where I worked so close to the flames that I nearly burned my hand and melted my camera — prompting one firefighter to shout, “Get that photographer out of here!” My thesis also included portraits of firefighters both on duty at the station and in life-threatening emergency situations requiring ambulance services.
I’ve always approached photography with creativity and experimentation. For example, I once built a camera out of a kitchen pot, took photos in downtown D.C., and developed them myself in my darkroom — even drawing the curiosity of local police. While I have a passion for artistic portraits, I also excel at still life and product photography, capturing items in ways that sell.
Photography Is Both Art and Science
A great photographer blends art and science. Art helps me compose visually compelling images without clutter. Science ensures proper exposure and mastery of light. While art school taught me composition, my expert lighting skills come from hands-on experience with National Geographic.
After graduating top of my class, I had the honor of working alongside Richard Nowitz, a renowned National Geographic photographer, on editorial assignments across the country for five years. That experience taught me how to think on my feet, anticipate moments before they happen, and capture the candid, authentic images that most people never notice.
Why Experience Matters
Whether I’m photographing your products or posing you for portraits, I approach every assignment with precision, creativity, and professionalism. I understand how to find the best angles, control lighting in the moment, and showcase subjects in the most flattering, striking way.
When you hire me, you’re not just hiring a photographer — you’re hiring a professional trained by the best, with decades of experience capturing moments and creating imagery that tells a story.
