THE STUDIO THAT COMES TO YOU.
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A private portrait commission is a different kind of portrait experience.
I bring the complete studio experience to you, so that you never have leave your home.
I've photographed thousands of personalities over two decades—from musicians and artists to entrepreneurs, professionals, families and people whose stories deserved to be photographed.
THE APPROACH
My approach (that's resulted in thousands of incredible, perfectly-captured personalities) isn't built around a rigid sequence of poses.
It's conversational and collaborative.
Good light. Good direction. A comfortable environment. And enough time to let the person in front of the camera become themselves.
THE portrait EXPERIENCE
BEFORE OUR SHOOT
We'll talk about what you're looking for in your portrait session. I'll help you think through wardrobe options and anything else that will make the experience—and the photographs—better.
DURING
I'll arrive with the equipment necessary to create a professional portrait studio in your location of choice. Our session will be fun, casual, and will last about two hours. We'll work through different looks, expressions, lighting and compositions until we've created all the content we need.
AFTER the shoot
I'll apply my 20 + years of editing experience to carefully review the photographs from your session and create a finished collection of the images I believe represent you at your best.
For more than 20 years, Sandlin Gaither has created honest, personality-driven portraits for clients throughout the Southeast. His relaxed approach and genuine connection with people put even the most camera-shy subjects at ease, resulting in photographs that feel natural, authentic, and unmistakably them.
THE FINISHED WORK
Every private commission includes
25 edited and individually finished portraits presented in two formats:
The Portrait Book
A beautiful physical album containing your finished collection.
Digital Gallery
High-resolution digital files for personal use, safekeeping and sharing.
THE PRICE
Private Portrait Commission
$3,250
Includes phone consultation, approximately two hours of photography at any location in North Carolina, professional lighting and studio equipment, post-production, twenty-five finished portraits, Portrait Book and private digital gallery.
WHO IT'S FOR
Private commissions are particularly well suited to:
Individuals
A portrait of yourself that actually feels like you.
Couples & Families
Something more exquisite than the standard family photograph.
Artists & Creatives
Portraits with personality rather than a generic promotional headshot.
Professionals & Entrepreneurs
A portrait with enough character to live beyond LinkedIn.
Milestones
A new chapter, anniversary, birthday or simply a moment worth keeping.
Or perhaps you don't need a reason at all!
Professional portraiture, crafted in your home, office, or other private location.
All sessions include a variety of guided poses, candid captures, wardrobe options, and lighting arrangements to produce a comprehensive selection of edited, high-quality images for personal, promotional and commercial use.
Let's make something
worth keeping.
If you've been thinking about having a portrait made—or you've simply never seen yourself photographed the way you'd like—I'd love to hear what you're imagining.
I'm Sandlin Gaither, an Asheville-based photographer with over 20 years behind the lens. I've photographed thousands of musicians, entertainers, and private clientele and my images have appeared in dozens of publications, album covers, book covers, juried shows and on The Grammy Awards.
I enjoy traveling throughout the southeast and beyond photographing portrait work for clients as well as anything that catches my eye along the way!
About the Photographer
FAQ
How much space is needed for the studio set up?
The standard studio arrangement consists of a canvas backdrop, 8-10 feet wide and raised to a height of 8-10 feet, and two light units with soft box modifiers raised to an optimal height of 10-12 feet. I'm happy to discuss any space to determine if we can make it work.
How long does a session take?
Commissioned sessions are never rushed and are intended to be be an enjoyable experience. A full session, from my arrival to departure, typically lasts 3-4 hours. Set up and break down times are around 20 minutes, and shooting time is around two hours.
When should I expect to receive my portraits?
Typical delivery time for your digital gallery of portraits is 7-10 days, and 21 days for your printed album to arrive by mail. Prints and framed works purchased through my print house (via your digital gallery) typically arrive in 7-10 days from purchase.
What should I wear?
Your wardrobe plays a huge part in the success of your portraits. There is no limit to the number of looks you'd like to try, so having a well-planned variety of options will serve you well, even if you don't end up wearing everything during the session.
A few pointers: Well-fitted clothing is always recommended; avoid busy patterns and words on clothing whenever possible, wear outfits that make you feel good about yourself, the more glamorous and stylish, the better. And don't be afraid to have fun with flair - hats, scarves, sunglasses, jewelry can really make an image pop!
Should I have my hair and makeup professionally done?
Yes, I recommend having hair and makeup professionally done. Though certainly not a requirement, there's a very noticeable difference between those who have invested in the services of professional stylists. Most stylists are available to come to you as well. I'm happy to help source these services in your area if you don't have one in mind.
Can I purchase additional images?
Yes. If you'd like a larger base of images, typically because we've incorporated a greater variety of looks, wardrobe, etc., that can be arranged. I also offer a selection of prints and framed imagery through the client's private digital gallery, fulfilled via my print house.
What if my home isn't suitable for a studio set up?
There are plenty of options if you don't feel your home is suitable for a studio set up, ranging from a potential outdoor set up to renting a nearby location. I'm happy to discuss all possibilities, so don't let your space stand in the way of making great portraits!
Can I see all of the photos from our session?
My approach to portraiture involves taking many images in an attempt to capture each subject's true personality and character as accurately as possible. From this extensive collection of images I will select only the very best for delivery to each client and do not provide unedited outtakes.
Can I have other people photographed during my session?
Commissioned portrait sessions are best for individuals and/or couples. Any additional person(s) should be discussed prior to our session with clear expectations set for the number of images devoted to each person and/or arrangment of groups, etc.
Do you travel outside of North Carolina?
Portrait commissions are readily available throughout the southeast and may involve additional travel expenses. Private commissions are accepted nationally/internationally on a case-by-case basis and may need to be customized according to gear availability/limitations.
