Northern Virginia Family, Wedding & Senior Portrait Photographer
Based in Fauquier County. Serving Fairfax and surrounding areas
Real moments, meaningful portraits, and photography
that feels natural not staged.
Hi! I’m Amanda
I've been photographing real life for 12 years - weddings, families, seniors, and all the beautiful chaos that comes with them. I'm a mom, a high school photography teacher,and someone who genuinely thrives when things get a little messy. (Crying toddler? Nervous teenager? Couple who thinks they're bad at photos? I've got you.)
My background is rooted in fine art. I have a bachelor's in art, an art education certification, and a master's from VCU, which means I bring a genuine artistic eye to everything I shoot, not just a camera.
My sessions are relaxed, low-pressure, and a little bit fun, because the best images don't happen when everyone's stiff and stressed. They happen when you forget I'm there.
I'm based in Warrenton, VA and photograph families, couples, and seniors all across Northern Virginia- from Fairfax, Loudon to Culpeper and everything inbetween.
You don't have to be a "photo person." You just have to show up.
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You don't have to be a "photo person." You just have to show up. |
real Families. Real Couples. real Life.
In a world where perfection often dominates, I find beauty in the messy and chaotic moments of motherhood and family life. I believe that true joy lies in the candid, unfiltered expressions, the spontaneous giggles, and the heartfelt embraces that happen when nobody is posing for the camera.
Kind Words from Families I've Loved Working With
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“Amanda Kahnell Photography does it every time. She captures the best moments of our family."
The Wakeley Family
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“Mandy was absolutely wonderful to work with. She knew how to make us feel natural and not feel awkward at all, and she knew exactly how to work with my little ones to get some beautiful shots of my family! She was professional, kind, affordable and VERY talented. I wouldn't hesitate to hire her anytime I need photos!"
The Cook Family
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“Amanda is absolute gold. She has captured my family for over 6 years and her photos do exactly what she aims to do... she freezes precious moments in time. She always gets the candid shots that showcase my children's personalities Her calm and relaxing demeanor is an added bonus."
The West Family
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“For years, we have been wanting to take our familv photos locallv in the heart of this amazing community. As soon as the mural was completed in Old Town, I knew it was time! Amanda was an easy choice, as her work and reputation proceeded her. Each step of the process, from setting up our session, to the morning of our shoot, through our gallery delivery...was seamless. Amanda is relaxed, easy going, and was up for anything that we wanted to do. If you are looking to capture lifestyle photos that uniquely reflect your family's personality, Amanda will surpass vour expectations!"
The Williams Family
Wedding Story
Wedding Story
Riverside on the Potomac — Northern Virginia
A story-driven wedding photographed with a candid approach, focused on real moments, connection, and presence throughout the day.
Ready to capture your people? I'd love to hear about what you're looking for reach out and let's make it happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
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I'm based in Warrenton, Virginia, and I photograph throughout Northern Virginia — including Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Stafford, Fredericksburg, Culpeper, Manassas, Gainesville, Haymarket, Alexandria, Herndon, Reston, and surrounding areas. I'm happy to travel for weddings and special sessions.
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I specialize in three areas: family and newborn photography, wedding and engagement photography, and high school senior portraits. All of my work is rooted in a documentary, story-driven approach natural, candid, and real.
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The easiest way to get started is to click any of the inquiry buttons on my site. I'll follow up quickly with availability, details, and next steps. You can also reach out through Instagram (@amandakahnellphotography) if you prefer something more casual first.
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My style is documentary and lifestyle, I focus on capturing genuine moments as they happen rather than heavily posing or directing every shot. I give gentle guidance when it helps, but mostly I'm watching for the real stuff: the laughs, the glances, the in-between moments you didn't even know were happening.
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For family sessions, I'd recommend booking 4–8 weeks out, especially for spring and fall those fill up fast. For weddings, 6–18 months in advance is typical. Senior portrait sessions book quickly in the summer before senior year, so don't wait! I’m very flexible so always reach out and we can work to find a date that works!
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Family sessions and senior portraits start at $500, and wedding coverage starts at $3,500 — with most full wedding days averaging around $4,500. Every session is a little different, so reach out and I'll share full pricing details based on what you're looking for — no obligation, just a conversation.