Rachel Whitley is a Durham-based portrait specialist offering relaxed, professional studio and on-location portraits. Caring, award-winning approach creates natural headshots, family and maternity images.
The Whitley Captures is focused on portrait photography — a specialist studio in Durham where Rachel Whitley creates relaxed, authentic images that feel like you. With an award-winning, caring approach and years of experience, Rachel positions portrait work at the heart of her business: from professional headshots and LinkedIn-ready images to creative studio portraits and natural lifestyle captures on location. Why choose The Whitley Captures for your portrait? Rachel is a friendly, patient host who works hard to put people at ease. Whether you’re nervous about having your photo taken or need a confident, professional headshot for business, she uses a gentle, conversational style to capture personality and presence. Her portfolio shows a consistent mix of posed and natural portraiture — flattering, clean studio work alongside candid, lifestyle images that tell a story. What makes the approach special is the combination of technical skill and thoughtful client care. Rachel brings extensive training, a background in both DSLR and mirrorless workflows, and recognition from industry awards and The Guild of Photographers. She shapes each shoot around your needs — choosing backdrops, props and two complimentary designs when appropriate — so your portraits feel personal and purposeful. Sessions can take place in the comfortable home studio in Durham or at a nearby location for a softer, outdoor look. How Rachel works with clients is simple and collaborative. Before your session she listens to what you want to achieve, offers styling and backdrop options, and helps plan the mood and shot list. On the day she creates a relaxed atmosphere, guiding poses while encouraging natural moments and genuine expressions. Editing is included, with careful retouching to ensure images are professional but authentic. While portrait photography is the core speciality, Rachel also photographs family and maternity portraits — a natural extension of her portrait-first practice. If you need a professional headshot, creative personal portrait, or meaningful family or maternity images, The Whitley Captures offers a warm, trusted service based in Durham, GB, where your most important people become Rachel’s most important focus during the shoot.