Headshots & Personal Branding
Professional portraits that capture your confidence and authority. Perfect for executives, entrepreneurs, and creatives.
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Charlottesville Portrait & Headshot Photographer
Portraits of Your Most Confident Self
Premium portrait photography celebrating your beauty, confidence, and story. Every session is a transformative experience.
More Than a Photographer. Your Biggest Fan.
With over a decade behind the lens, I have learned that the most powerful photographs come from genuine connection. Based in Charlottesville, Virginia, and working with clients across Richmond, Northern Virginia, Washington D.C., and beyond, I specialize in headshots and portraits that reveal the beauty you might not always see in the mirror. Whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply ready to invest in yourself, I am here to make it unforgettable.
47years photographing
|1,000+sessions captured
|1,000+happy clients
Arnel Gonce
Portrait Photographer | Charlottesville, VA
“Every person who walks into my studio walks out seeing themselves differently. That is the magic I live for.”
What I Offer
Sessions I Photograph
From headshots to destination shoots, every session is crafted around you. Find the experience that fits your story.
Mini Sessions
A shorter, simpler session for a beautiful image without the 3+ hour commitment. Available across most session types.
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Fabulous Over 50
Celebrating the beauty, strength, and elegance of women over 50. Because your best years are happening right now.
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Portrait Sessions
Creative, personalized portraits that reveal the real you. Every session is tailored to your personality and story.
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Family & Couples
Authentic moments between the people who matter most. Engagements, anniversaries, and family milestones captured forever.
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Maternity Creative Shoots
Artistic maternity sessions that celebrate this incredible chapter. Currently booking three months out.
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High School & College Seniors
Senior portraits that stand out from the crowd. Fun, fresh, and totally you. Mark this milestone in style.
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Destination Photography
Take your session anywhere in the world. From local Virginia vineyards to international dream locations.
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Recent Work
Stories From the Studio
A glimpse into recent sessions. Click any story to browse the full gallery.
Headshots
Maria K.
Family Session
The Grossmans
Maternity
Brooke R.
Senior Portraits
Annalee H.
Couples & Engagement
Matt & Steph
Boudoir
Client
Fabulous Over 50
Stephanie K.Headshots
Maria K.Family Session
The GrossmansMaternity
Brooke R.Senior Portraits
Annalee H.Couples & Engagement
Matt & StephBoudoir
ClientFabulous Over 50
Stephanie K.Google Reviews
In Their Own Words
Reviews left on Google by people who sat in front of my camera. I have not changed a word.
“A friend talked me into participating in Arnel’s 50 Over 50 Photography Project, and I’m so glad that I did! It was so much fun, and Arnel was wonderful in making me feel at ease, especially as I’ve never liked to have my picture taken. She truly has a gift and I was so pleased with the pictures; I could not recommend her more highly. It was an honor and a privilege to be a part of this project celebrating women over 50!”
“I could not be happier with my photography sessions with Arnel Gonce! She is so talented and I felt so comfortable during each photo shoot. From the start, with ease of scheduling, to providing a makeup artist and with the finish of choosing my final photos and delivery of photos she was so professional. I love her creativity. I would book her again and again! 10/10 would recommend!”
“I had a maternity shoot with Arnel. She made the whole process very easy. She gave great direction and was a huge cheerleader when I wasn’t feeling very confident in my own skin. My pictures turned out beautiful and I loved the confidence I walked away with. Highly recommended.”
Kind Words
What Clients Are Saying
Real experiences from real people. Nothing means more than knowing my clients leave feeling their best.
Patti A.
Headshots & Personal Branding
I had put off new headshots for years. The old one was awful and I hate being on camera. Arnel made it surprisingly easy. She told me where to look, what to do with my hands, when to laugh. The photos look like me, not like a stock image. Worth every dollar.
From the Journal
Local Guides, Straight From the Studio
Where to go, what to wear and what it all costs, written from real Charlottesville sessions.
12 Best Places for Family Photos in Charlottesville (A Photographer's Shortlist)
Twelve Charlottesville locations I actually shoot, what the light does at each one, and what goes wrong where.
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How Much Do Professional Headshots Cost in Charlottesville? A 2026 Price Guide
A straight answer on what headshots cost in Charlottesville, what moves the price, and the seven questions to ask before you book anyone.
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Fabulous Over 50: The Story Behind My 50 Women Over 50 Project
Where my Fabulous Over 50 sessions came from: a photographer I never met, a calendar that stuck with me, and a campaign that ran far longer than planned.
ReadFAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your session. Still have questions? We would love to hear from you.
Your story deserves to be told beautifully
Ready to Book Your Session?
Every session is a transformative experience. Let us bring out your confidence, your story, and your most beautiful self.