Meet Denise Watrous....

The Photographer Who Sees More

Photography isn't just what I do for a living, it's who I am. I picked up a camera in first grade and never put it down. Since 1988, I've been crafting high-end portraits that are more than just images. They're art. 

I specialize in senior portraits, destination sessions, pageant head shots, branding images, and maternity & family portraits. My style? Vibrant, bold, and a little bit dramatic. I seek out stunning locations, striking lighting, and next-level posing to create portraits that don't just capture you-they showcase you! 

I work with clients who want more. More creativity. More luxury. More adventure. Whether we're shooting in a castle in Europe, a desert in Arizona, or right here in Wisconsin, I bring energy, passion and a vision that transforms an ordinary session into an extraordinary experience! 

If you're ready for jaw-dropping portraits that demand attention and make you feel unstoppable, let's talk. 

 

Why Professional Photography?

Moments fade, but memories captured by a professional last forever

Moments pass quickly, but professional photography captures them forever - not just as snapshots, but as true works of art. This time in your life deserves to be preserved with intention, care and expertise. A professional photographer does more than simply click a shutter; they know how to craft beautiful light, guide you with expert posing, and bring out genuine emotion that tells your story. Every detail - from location to lighting to the final artwork - is thoughtfully designed to ensure you have timeless, breathtaking portraits that celebrate exactly who you are right now. These images aren't just photos; they are a legacy. 

THE EXPERIENCE

I'm Not For Everyone

Not Just a Session. An Experience

If you're looking for simple, ordinary pictures, I'm not your photographer. But if you want a high-energy, luxurious, fully customized portrait experience that leaves you speechless, then welcome. You're in the right place! 

Step 1: The Call.  Yes, we start with a phone consultation because your portraits deserve much more than back-and-forth emails. We will chat about your vision, and my vision, answer questions, go over lots of fun information and then select a date for the session. 

Step 2: The In-Studio Consultation. Every incredible portrait begins with a personalized in-studio consultation. This is where we bring your vision to life! We'll discuss outfits, locations, styling, and the artistic direction of your session, ensuring that every detail reflects your unique personality and goals. You'll also have the chance to see and feel the stunning products I offer. Luxury albums, breathtaking wall art, exquisite prints. Feel the materials-soft leathers, vibrant metals, sophisticated acrylics, classic canvas, and more. You'll be able to fully envision how your portraits will be displayed. 

Step 3: The Session! This is where the magic happens! Your portrait session is more than just a photoshoot. It's a high-energy, luxury experience designed just for you. From the moment you step in front of my camera, I'll guide you through expert posing, dramatic lighting, and personalized vision that will bring out your confidence and personality. Whether we are capturing vibrant senior portraits, powerful headshots, dazzling pageant images, breathtaking maternity or family portraits, or an unforgettable destination session, every detail is carefully crafted to make you look and feel incredible! Get ready for fun, over-the-top, and one-of-a-kind experience that ends with portraits you'll treasure forever! 

Step 4: The Reveal & Ordering Session: After your session, we will again meet at the studio to view your stunning images. You will see them for the very first time on a 55 inch state of the art, high definition OLED television. This ensures that we don't miss a single detail in our favorite images! You'll select all of your favorites, then get to choose from custom designed albums, unique image boxes, show stopping wall art. Choose the materials you love to create custom pieces to display your portraits in a way that truly wows! 

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

What Clients Are Saying

The Experience. The Art. The Wow.

Every portrait I create is more than just a photo. It's a work of art, a moment captured, and an unforgettable experience. But don't just take my word for it! Hear from the incredible clients who have stepped in front of my lens and walked away with stunning portraits and memories to last a lifetime! 

Real Words from Real Clients:

Diane N.

The energy shifts the moment you step in front of the camera with Denise behind the lens. Her ability to bring her vision to life and capture the essence of a moment is truly unmatched. For over 20 years, Denise has created stunning photographs of my sons, my family, and most recently, myself for a magazine cover. These images have given me cherished memories, especially after the heartbreaking loss of two of my sons. Don’t miss the chance to capture family photos. With Denise’s incredible talent, personalities shine through in every shot. I speak from experience—one day, you may find yourself holding onto a photograph as the only reminder of a loved one. Make sure it’s one that truly reflects their spirit.

Leticia G.

With her, it's never just a photoshoot. It's an experience. The music, the energy, the way she brings the vision to life...it's a full vibe. I don't just show up. I get to feel it, live it, BE it. That's the kind of artistry I'll always show up for! Always preparing to be blown away by the captures.

Trinity H.

I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Denise on multiple occasions, including pageant shoots, a stunning destination shoot in Austin, Texas, and my senior pictures in Chicago. Every time, she blows my expectations out of the water. Her creativity, attention to detail, and incredible eye for capturing the perfect shot make every session unforgettable. Denise not only makes me look my best but also makes me feel my best. Her ability to create a fun, comfortable, and energetic atmosphere means there is never a dull moment while being photographed by her. She brings out the best in her subjects with her imagination and passion, turning every shoot into an amazing experience. If you’re looking for a photographer who will exceed every expectation and bring your vision to life, Denise is the one!

Natalie S.

Denise is so creative, fun, and professional to work with! Her photos are gorgeous and she always knows how to bring out the best of her clients! Not only is she great with her photography skills, she is an amazing stylist having a whole wardrobe and jewelry closet you can try on for photos! I always look forward to the next time I will get to work with Denise!

Kim G.

“Denise always exceeds our expectations. She captures the essence of the moment & the individual with perfection due to her creativity & sharp attention to detail. Traveling with her multiple times, we can attest to the many laughs & adventures that are to be had. The end product is stunning & she is easy to work with.”

Jen B.

Three times over, so much fear, hope, worry, surgeries, appointments, pain, healing, treatments, hiding the reality, perfecting the illusion of reality, accepting and moving forward, I decide to beautify the space. Then…the beautified space is glorified. So simply sophisticated in an empowering session of studio time. My multiple diagnosis of breast cancer, a masking and thoughtful tattoo come to life and Denise brings forward the best and most beautiful images and the most conquered feeling after breast cancer tries to knock me down so many times, Denise depicts PERFECTLY how well I’ve stood back up again. No one but Denise could be trusted and commissioned to capture something so very personal and I couldn’t be happier. Ladies, do REAL boudoir photos of today’s beautiful self. Own what you are blessed with. The courage to do it makes it all the more precious, and Denise can capture every bit of it.

Jenna W.

Denise is an absolute master behind the lens! She made my pageant headshot session effortless and fun, capturing stunning images that truly reflect my personality and confidence. From elegant crown shots to beautifully composed miss and teen portraits, every photo was flawless. Her attention to detail, professionalism, and ability to bring out the best in her subjects are unmatched. If you’re looking for a photographer who will make you feel like royalty and deliver breathtaking images, I highly recommend Denise!

Kiana S.

I have worked with Denise for quite a few years now. Through those years we have also traveled for photo shoots to create some of the most priceless, memorable, and epic pieces together. I am so grateful for her vision, talent and friendship.

Emily J.

Denise made me feel so special throughout the whole process of my senior portraits and she captured the many facets of my personality through her incredible photos. I often found myself wishing I could do it again, so years later when I was in the market for professional headshots I knew there was no one better! This time, she captured the business professional that I had become in a personalized and unique way. I’d recommend her services to anyone and everyone!

Corie K.

Our experience with Denise for our son’s senior photos was absolutely wonderful! Her professionalism and upbeat energy made the entire session enjoyable from start to finish. She has an incredible eye for detail, ensuring every shot was perfectly framed and natural. She took her time, making sure we never felt rushed, and her warm, positive attitude helped our son feel completely comfortable in front of the camera. The final product was beyond our expectations—truly over the top! These are photos he will never forget, and we’re so grateful for the beautiful memories she captured.

Lauri E.

Denise did a wonderful job when she allowed my 17 year old to just do her thing. She is comfortable in front of a camera, but Denise encouraged her to step outside her box. Over the years, Ky has had the opportunity to help Denise on various photoshoots, and every time, the photos are incredible and Ky gets to be who she wants to be. What more could we ever ask for!

Alexandra B.

I was photographed by Denise Watrous for my senior photos. She not only did a fabulous job taking them, but also provided some location suggestions that fit my personality so well! She was patient- allowing me to change outfits multiple times and drive to multiple places. She’s professional, respectful, supportive, and a joy to work with. I am grateful to have chosen her for my senior photos and would recommend her to anyone that wants professional photos taken of them or their family.

Jordenne B.

Having your photos taken can sometimes feel uncomfortable or nerve-wracking, but Denise makes the experience enjoyable and effortless! She has an incredible eye for detail and creativity, bringing your vision to life with ease. I highly recommend Denise to anyone looking for a talented and professional photographer who makes you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

Julie P.

Loved both our daughters photo shoots with Denise! One involved a prom dress in Great, great Grandpa's barn and the other was an urban photo shoot on a 100° July afternoon! Exciting, artistic, fun and beautiful are just a few words to describe the adventure of the photo shoots for graduation photos! We have stunning collages of both our daughters hanging in our home as a result of Denise's expertise!

Ready for More?
WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN
WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN
WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN