I'm Jonathan: Your Socially Awkward, Star Wars Loving, Metal Head Photographer

I don't do the weird poses or the Terminator vibe. I believe photos should be authentic, meaningful and fun—not a stressful chore. I specialize in dramatic, kick-ass portraits for normal families and seniors who are tired of the "say cheese" photos.

If you’re ready to dump the formality and just be yourselves, you’ve found your guy.

I believe your story is way more important than any fancy editing. We’re capturing the real you, not just a perfect photo.

-Jonathan

My Job is to Make You Forget the Camera Exists.

Look, I know taking pictures can feel intimidating. That's why I keep every session low-pressure, fun and easy. I'll guide you through the process, handle all the technical stuff and deploy a few truly terrible "Dad" jokes to make sure we get real, genuine smiles.

My mission is simple: You show up, relax and walk away with cool photos.

💥I'm going to be straight with you right now: Anyone who knows me knows I am a stats man and there is one stat that is sad but true (did you see what I did there?) : it is estimated that 1 out of every 100,000 photos will be printed, the rest will never be seen again.

That being said, if you're looking only for digital files, you are in the wrong place. I specialize in prints first, digitals second.💥

Outside of photography, here are a few things that inspire me and bring joy to my life (and might explain why I'm a little quirky):

Philadelphia Eagles

Fly Eagles Fly Since 1980. I’m a loyal, loud and long-suffering Eagles fan (but not as bad as a Jets or Browns fan). Which means I understand dedication and passion—the exact kind of energy I bring to your shoot. Go Birds!

A New Hope

Star Wars (A New Hope is Required Viewing). If it’s on, I’m watching it. Every. Single. Time. Seriously, who doesn't want to channel a little Luke Skywalker energy? If you quote the movies, we're probably best friends already.

Heavy Metal Music

Metallica are THE rock gods. Nothing more to say here.

Dinosaurs

I would have loved to be a fossil hunter. They are fascinating creatures we're still learning about. (I promise not to make your photo session feel ancient.)

Modifieds

Nothing beats the sound of a wide open modified engine—it’s pure, raw power that shakes the ground you walk on and I apply that energy to my dramatic, bold editing style.

See More Things That Make Me, "Me"

Don't Just Take My Word For It...

Seniors

"Jonathan took our daughter's senior pictures. His creativity really captured her personality. We highly recommend Mess E Photos" - Rhonda W

Families

“Your session was relaxed. We laughed, we talked, the kids enjoyed the location and the photos turned out beautiful! THANK YOU!!!!!” - Angela M

Need more proof? See lots more real reviews here.

Community Roots

Giving Back

Kayla's Knot & Co.

Wedding Planning

Check out her Facebook page

Flores Flour Shop

At Home Bakery

Flores Flour Shop Facebook page

Creating Tomorrow's Difference

Learn More About Them Here

ZERO Prostate Cancer

Zero Prostate Community

Stop waiting for the perfect moment: It's never going to happen.

So let’s capture the messy, real, awesome life you have right now.

Ready to kiss awkward posing good-bye?

Ditch the Boring. Let's Plan It!

Family, Senior and Sports Photography that doesn't suck in Franklin County, Bedford County, Henry County and Floyd County as well as the cities of Roanoke and Martinsville Virginia.