RICHMOND FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
ANNA DOBROVOLSKAIA
An artistic, documentary-style family photography experience, preserving genuine connection and quiet beauty. Based in Richmond, VA, Anna Dobrovolskaia creates heirloom imagery that celebrates your story with honesty and heart.



Serving Richmond, VA and beyond
Meet Anna Dobrovolskaia — timeless, artistic family photography in Richmond, VA, capturing love, connection, and the quiet beauty of everyday life. Specializing in documentary-style newborn, maternity, and motherhood sessions, serving families who value authentic storytelling and heartfelt moments.
“Your candid moments through my lens”
Welcome!
I’m Anna Dobrovolskaia, a documentary-style family family photographer based in Richmond, VA. Originally from Russia, I spent over 11 years in Shanghai, China, before making Richmond my home. With over three years of professional photography experience and over 350 photo sessions behind me, I’ve developed a deep passion for capturing genuine moments.
My approach to family photography goes beyond creating images — it’s about preserving emotions. I want you to feel your photos every time you look at them. My goal is to transport you back to those moments — the warmth of a hug, the sound of soft laughter, the stillness of a quiet pause. These photos aren’t just pictures for your wall or pages in an album; they are windows into your life, your love, and your story.
I believe in capturing the real and the raw. As a family photographer, I’m not chasing perfection — I’m chasing emotion, depth, and truth. I want the photos we create together to resonate with you, to remind you of who you are and the beauty of your life as it is right now. Every time you look at them, I hope they make your heart skip a beat and remind you of what truly matters.
If you’re looking for a family photographer in Richmond, VA, who is dedicated to creating emotional, meaningful images that capture your story, let’s connect. I would be honored to help you preserve the moments that matter most.

I’ve come to realize that the true beauty in photographs doesn’t lie in perfection — it’s in authenticity. It’s in the way a child’s laughter lights up a parent’s face or how a couple’s fingers naturally intertwine in a quiet moment. It’s in the subtle tilt of a head, the shared glance, the joy, and even the vulnerability exchanged without words. These are the threads that weave the fabric of our lives — real moments that carry weight, meaning, and emotion.
When I look through my lens, I’m not searching for flawless poses or magazine-worthy perfection. I’m searching for you — the real, unfiltered version of you in all your beautifully messy, wonderfully imperfect glory. I’m drawn to the way the sunlight filters through your hair, the way your child clings to your leg, or the crinkle of your eyes when you laugh. These are the details that make your story uniquely yours, and they’re the moments I want to preserve.
While I will offer gentle guidance to make sure your photos feel cohesive — ensuring that colors and textures complement the emotions of the day — those suggestions are simply there to enhance your story, not define it. Because at the heart of it, it’s not about the perfect dress or flawless backdrop. It’s about connection. It’s about the life you live, the love you share, and the moments you hold most dear.
Life is unpredictable, beautifully unscripted, and full of surprises. And that’s what makes it so special. The imperfect, unplanned moments — the giggles, the quiet tears, the way the wind plays with your hair — those are the moments you’ll cherish most. So, let’s embrace the chaos, the imperfections, and the rawness of life because that’s where the magic truly happens.
Let’s capture your story, exactly as it is. Real. Honest. Unforgettable.

Published in Heartful Magazine
Published in Heartful Magazine and named one of the top 20 family photographers in the Spring 2025 Ones to Watch list, my work has been recognized for its honest and intimate storytelling. Heartful Magazine highlights photographers who are redefining family photography, capturing raw, soulful moments that reflect real connections. Being selected from over 10,000 submissions is a true honor and a reflection of my passion for creating meaningful, authentic images.

Warm Words
“I’m thankful for the work you do, bringing so much value to people’s lives. You do incredible work!”
What I’m all about…
You’re here because you want your family photos to capture real emotions — the candid, raw moments that truly reflect your life. As a documentary-style family photographer, I want these images to make you smile and feel nostalgic years down the road, to look at them in your album and be grateful you took the time to preserve these moments.
I have a deep love for natural light, and when I take photos, I notice every detail — the light, the air, the play of shadows and highlights. These subtle elements add depth to my photos, making you feel the moment, not just see it.
Let’s work together to create memories that you’ll treasure forever, moments that feel as real and full of life as the day they happened.
♡
Newborn, Maternity & Family Photography
SESSION OFFERINGS
Fine Art Prints & Albums
Preserve your cherished moments with timeless elegance. I offer high-quality fine art prints and beautifully crafted albums that bring your memories to life. Made with carefully selected, vegan-friendly papers and archival-grade inks, each piece is designed to last for generations. Whether you’re looking to decorate your home or create a meaningful keepsake, my prints and albums are crafted with exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
Q&A

We’re awkward in front of the camera. Can you help?
Absolutely. Most of my clients tell me they were worried about feeling awkward but ended up feeling relaxed and pleasantly surprised by how easy and stress-free the experience was. My approach is all about living in the moment rather than posing. I focus on capturing genuine connection, movement, and those unique, fleeting moments that make your story yours. If you ever feel unsure, I’m always there to gently guide you and suggest ideas that feel natural and true to you.
What is your photography style like, and how do sessions usually unfold?
My style is a blend of documentary and lifestyle photography. That means I focus on real moments, genuine emotions, and natural interactions rather than stiff poses. During our session, I’ll gently guide you if needed, but most of the time I encourage you to simply be present — with your family, your baby, your partner — and enjoy each other’s company.
In classic, more posed photography, the goal is often to create a “perfect” image where everyone looks at the camera and smiles. In documentary and lifestyle photography, the goal is to capture the feeling of the moment. It’s about creating a collection of images that feels personal, alive, and true to you.
How long is a session, and what if my children can’t handle being photographed for that long?
Most of my sessions last between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the flow of the day and your family’s needs. I know it can feel a little worrying, especially for moms, to imagine young children lasting that long — but I promise, my sessions aren’t about standing still or forcing smiles. Children usually enjoy the experience because they’re free to be themselves — running around, exploring, snuggling with you, or just being playful. The focus isn’t on being “perfect” or posing a certain way; it’s about spending meaningful time together, connecting, and letting real moments unfold.Many parents tell me afterward that the session felt more like a slow, joyful pause in their busy lives than a photoshoot — and that their kids had a great time.
Do you offer mini sessions?
I typically don’t offer mini sessions because the heart of my work is about connection, storytelling, and capturing genuine moments — and that takes time. My approach is slow, relaxed, and focused on letting you settle into the experience without feeling rushed. Mini sessions, by nature, are quick and often more posed, which doesn’t leave space for the depth and authenticity I aim to capture. I want your photos to feel meaningful, not hurried. On rare occasions, like around Mother’s Day, I offer limited short sessions designed very intentionally to still reflect my style. Otherwise, I focus on full-length sessions where the magic can unfold naturally.
How do we book you?
To reserve your session, you’ll sign a simple contract and pay a retainer. Once that’s complete, your date is secured! I take a limited number of sessions each month to ensure a personalized experience.
Can we order prints or albums from you?
Yes. I offer fine art prints and custom-designed albums made with high-quality materials. These heirlooms are crafted to last and are a beautiful way to hold your memories in your hands.
When will we receive our photos?
You’ll receive an online gallery with your final edited images within 3 weeks after your session. I spend a lot of time carefully editing each image to preserve the feeling and beauty of the moment.
What should we wear?
Clothing that feels comfortable, flows with movement, and reflects your authentic style photographs best. I love soft tones, soft textures, and pieces that allow for connection — think cozy knits, linen dresses, or bare feet on the grass. After your session is booked, you will receive my outfits guide.
Where do sessions take place?
Most sessions happen in your home, where you feel most comfortable, or outdoors in beautiful natural settings. I can recommend locations that match the feeling you’re envisioning — soft, intimate, and full of natural light.

