I am Rosemary Ragusa, a fine art photographer specializing in portrait and wedding photography—in Portland, Oregon, and worldwide.

My Mission
My mission is to help individuals and families capture the memories of their lives with inspiring photography, and then displaying those works in creative and unique ways. I believe great wedding and family photography is the most important thing you can have to help you remember how you felt during the most cherished times in your life.

My Background
As a kid I always wanted a camera in my hand. My very first subjects were my beloved cats! In my teenage years, I moved on to photographing some of my favorite bands in the Washington, DC area. After moving out west, I earned a degree in Fine Art Photography in San Francisco, moved to Portland, and started Mon Amour Photography (now Rosemary Ragusa Photography) in 2004.

With a background in fine art photography and a passion for the stop-action photos favored by photojournalists, I bring a unique perspective to weddings and portrait sessions: an ability to capture a split-second emotion—that first postnuptial kiss, a baby’s whip-fast expression—and turn it into a memento.

I have been recognized for my work with several gallery shows and am also available for fine art commission work.

How I Work
Intuition plays a huge role in my process as a photographer. My instinct for what makes a great photo comes from years of experience, and also from a sense of fun. I have a playful nature for color and images. I know the effect I want—and that means I can look at something and know it’s going to be right. I believe this shows in my fine art prints as well as my wedding and family portraits.

Family Portraits: I like taking pictures of people: babies, senior citizens, and everything in between. I have a knack for creating a comfortable environment and capturing both posed shots and candid moments. Informal portraits, ones done in the comfort of the family home, are a particular favorite of mine. The more familiar children are with their surroundings, the more relaxed they will be. I give kids a chance to come up with their own ideas. One little boy wanted me to take pictures of all his monster faces; this helped him loosen up and act more naturally. His parents had fun trying to choose the best shot.

Wedding Photography: During the initial consultation, I encourage the bridal couple to talk about their ideas for pictures. I focus on listening to what they want, which is not always a traditional photo shoot, and I offer creative suggestions (and practical ones, too) that ensure the final photos are perfection. I think it’s important to combine my ideas with my clients’ so that I’m not just taking a picture that only I am going to like. Weddings can be a challenge—which is why some photographers avoid them altogether—but I have an upbeat, easy-going nature, which makes it a snap for me to go with the flow (with a smile on my face) on what can be a hectic day.

My Values
• Integrity: I produce high-quality products that deliver on the promises I make.
• Creativity: I honor new ways of understanding and expressing.
• Growth: I look for ways to learn and grow as an individual and as an organization.
• Customer Satisfaction: I treat my clients like royalty and good friends. If you’re happy, I’m happy.
• The Planet: I minimize the negative environmental consequences of my work whenever I can.

To learn more about Rosemary Ragusa, please join our Facebook Fanpage.

For more information, please contact Rosemary at 503.313.2427 or rr@rosemaryragusa.com.