About
My name is Anna Dobrovolskaia, and I’m a family photographer based in Richmond, VA with a deep passion for capturing authentic, intimate moments that tell a story. My journey into photography began during my early university years when I found myself drawn to the work of local photographers, admiring how they froze fleeting emotions and stories in time. Even as a child, I was captivated by Polaroid and film cameras, enchanted by their ability to preserve memories. I dreamed of owning a professional camera but dismissed the idea, feeling I lacked the talent and means to pursue photography seriously.
Everything changed in 2021. Burned out from my previous job, I yearned for a new passion and remembered my long-standing love for photography. That’s when I purchased my first camera, a Fuji XT-200, and began exploring this art form wholeheartedly. I started by photographing friends and quickly fell in love with the process. As my skills developed, so did my confidence, and soon I transitioned to being a full-time photographer.
Today, my work focuses on documentary and artistic photography of families, newborns and maternity. I strive to capture life’s quiet poetry — the raw and tender moments that make us human. Inspired by light and shadow, I approach photography as a painter would their canvas, seeking to create cinematic and deeply emotional imagery.
Photography, for me, is more than a profession; it’s freedom and self-expression. It allows me to slow down, embrace the beauty in the ordinary, and share my unique perspective of the world. Through my lens, I hope to inspire others to see the cinematic beauty in their own everyday lives.
Ava Massey
Anna was phenomenal photographing our family. As neurodivergent household finding a photographer to meet our boys needs is not the easiest of tasks, however Anna was able to capture the boys in their natural state smiles and all. We will definitely be booking her for future sessions as our sons grow up.
Chelsea Black
These photos mean so much to me. I was searching for a photographer in the area with a specific style and came across Anna and have become in love with her work. She captures love and all the details so perfectly. I'm in love with these photos and her work and was just beaming the whole time I was going through our gallery. She even captured a beautiful smile from my newborn that I hadn't even seen before! I am so grateful for these photos and will cherish them forever.
Christine Young
WOW! I am absolutely floored and beyond amazed at these photos! They have exceeded my expectations and hopes for what they could ever be! I just kept getting more and more excited (and shrieking) as I was scrolling through, we are so in love with them! I am forever grateful to you for capturing these precious moments and cannot thank you enough Anna!