Strike a Pose! The Top Portrait Photographers Serving Southwest Missouri
Spring has finally arrived, and the gentle sunlight, scenic greenery, and blossoming flowers makes it a very busy season for photographers. Today we are highlighting some of the most talented shutter-bugs in the Jasper County area, from Joplin to Springfield and beyond.
Whether you’re a budding solopreneur looking for new headshots, a busy mom planning a family photo shoot, or a seasoned influencer looking for more lifestyle content for your feed—hiring a professional portrait photographer is an important step.
Why invest in professional portraiture? Because the perfect shot has the power to preserve a moment or memory in time, forever. It can tell a story about a season or a chapter in life, or capture someone’s timeless energy and personal brand like nothing else.
Not all of us are blessed with the camera-loving, photogenic gene, but thankfully these professionals have the artistry and skill to make you look your very best—no filter required! They also will know the best background and lighting for your session, saving you hours of research, logistical planning and stress.
Check out these creatives and support them with a like, a follow—or better yet, booking on your spring calendar!
Kalynne Bready
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Kalynne Bready is a Joplin-based photographer specializing in families, engagements and portraits. A wife, mom and teacher, she serves the Jasper County area and even as far as Kansas City. We love her soft, romantic style!
The XO Photography
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Jessica Kennedy of The XO Photography is a Springfield wife and mama of three. Prior to maternity and family photography, she had a winding career path ranging from cosmetology to accounting. For the coolest angles, check out her drone portraits!
McGee Creative
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Springfield power-couple Austin & Alex of McGee Creative specialize in videography and photography for individuals, families and real estate. Looking for the perfect show-stopping ensemble to wear in your shoot? They are also owners of Missouri dress rental company, @missourigowns.
KW Photos
Jenny of KW PHOTOS is based in Joplin but travels nationwide for photography gigs. She specializes in portrait photography and has a roster of connections to makeup artists and stylists to pull from for the perfect shot. This single mama started her business 9 years ago and has even gotten to the point where she is able to offer mentorships to other photographers. What’s “KW”, you ask? Her grandfather’s initials, whom the biz is named after because he inspired her to do what she loved.
Andy Neher
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Andy Neher is a nationally-featured Jasper-based artist and photographer who specializes in all types of photography, from portraiture to landscape. His wife and daughter help manage the business behind the scenes, including scheduling and marketing and lighting support. It’s a family affair! We love Andy’s crisp, sharp and stunning style that can make anyone look and feel like a movie star.
Honey & Pine
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Tyffanie Rogers of Honey & Pine Photography is a fellow aesthetics specialist who moonlights as a professional photographer. Tyffanie’s photographic style could be described as deep, raw and moody—just like the great outdoors where many of her session backdrops occur. Tyffanie loves capturing the most intimate, tender and authentic moments in her lifestyle, family and wedding portraits and we love how natural and authentic her subjects appear in front of the lens.
Mitzi Starkweather
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Mitzi Starkweather is an award-winning photographer specializing in women’s portraiture in Joplin. Like us, she believes every woman is beautiful, valuable, and worthy of greatness. It’s not uncommon for her clients to show up with nerves, joy, pain, and years of insecurity, but through trust-building and vulnerability the result is powerful. From black and whites, to boudoir, glamour shots, commercial, branding and beyond—Mitzi can help you feel confident and empowered. The best part? Each of Mitzi’s magazine-style portrait packages include styling consultation, professional hair & makeup, and full posing direction. Get ready to shine!
Our Top Photo Tips
- Wear clothes that you feel most comfortable and yourself in!
- Loosen up your body and relax your mind by dancing or laughing to get the most authentic posture and facial expressions.
- Aim to “make triangles” with your body, by positioning your arms and legs at angles to create visual interest and aesthetically pleasing lines.
- Don’t be scared of bad weather on the day of your shoot! Oftentimes, cloudy days or even snow on the ground can make the most striking and stunning photos.
Ready for your Close-Up? With all of these amazing photographers waiting to capture your smile, it’s time to look and feel photo-ready. Triple-board certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Talon Maningas and his expert aesthetics team are here to help you find the rejuvenating skin treatment that’s right for you at our Joplin med spa, from injectables and fillers, to anti-aging facials and laser services. To schedule your consultation, call us at 417.437.0303 or contact us online today!