About Us
Matt & Shea Photography is a family-owned and operated business that has a rich history. It began as Matt’s Photographic Design in a garage 20 years ago, with a simple logo and a presence on MySpace. Over the years, it evolved into Image Photography, leading in portraits in the Chattanooga Area for over 16 years. However, to add a more personal touch, the studio was once again rebranded as Matt & Shea Photography to honor Matt's daughter, Shea, who had been working with the studio for over 6 years. The studio boasts a 3000 sqft space, including a viewing theater for print and product selection, a dedicated newborn studio, and a 1500 sqft custom-designed shooting area with decorated scenes to create the perfect portrait. With a wide range of tools, expertise, and passion, Matt & Shea Photography is well-equipped to bring your family's vision to life
Matt
Photographer/Owner
Matt is a highly skilled and experienced photographer with a remarkable 20-year career based in Chattanooga. His expertise spans a wide spectrum of photography, encompassing commercial, wedding, senior, and family portraiture. As a father of 7, he possesses an innate ability to capture the genuine joy of children, often eliciting laughter with his renowned clipboard trick. Matt is celebrated for his mastery in creating distinctive and captivating lighting effects, both within the confines of a studio and out on location.
An active member of the prestigious PPA (Professional Photographers of America) since 2008, Matt also holds affiliations with the PPET (Professional Photographers of East Tennessee), the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association, and the esteemed WPPI (Wedding Portrait Photographers International).
Matt's work has been featured in prestigious nationally syndicated magazines such as O.K. Magazine and Home and Life, as well as in the captivating photographic novel "The Timeless Journey: A Collection In Available Light Photography." He has won several awards through the Professional Photographers of America and the Wedding and Portrait Professional International convention in Las Vegas, where his image “Dirt Angel” brought home a Silver Image Award paired against the top photographers in the industry.
National Awards and Publications
2022 Professional Photographers Association International Image Competition Image Excellence Collection
2022 Professional Photographer Association International Image Competition Image Merit Award
2022 January Issue Professional Photographers Magazine
2021 Wedding Portrait Professional International Conference and Print Competition Silver Award
Other publications include OK Magazine, Country Music Blog, MTV, Life’s Journey, Mint Magazine, and various articles in the Chattanooga Times Free Press
Shea
Newborn Photographer/Owner
Shea's journey into the world of photography started at her father's studio when she was just 11 years old. By the remarkable age of 13, she had already successfully captured a wedding, a clear indication that she had found her true passion at an exceptionally young age. Fast forward to the present day, Shea has dedicated herself to honing her skills and attending photography classes, leading her to be recognized as one of the premier newborn photographers in our area. Specializing in newborn photography, boudoir, and senior sessions, Shea's artistry and expertise shine through in every shot she takes.
When Shea isn't behind the lens, she can be found immersed in the world of video games on her computer or enjoying quality time with her beloved dog, Ralphie. This year, Shea is gearing up to submit her captivating images to both the prestigious WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photographers International) and the esteemed Professional Photographers of America IPC (International Print Competition), showcasing her dedication and talent on a global stage.
personal life
Matt and Shea have a deep passion for witnessing the beautiful journey of families growing and the joy of children maturing. Their household is lively and bustling, with nine family members creating an environment that's always full of excitement. Having celebrated 22 wonderful years of marriage this past March, Matt and his wife Kristin exemplify a strong and enduring bond that reflects their commitment to making a positive impact and building a loving family. Outside of their professional commitments, they cherish spending time at the movies, exploring the wonders of the Georgia Aquarium, and unwinding in the comfort of their home's sports room during their cherished Movie Mondays. While Thursdays are now dedicated to supporting their two exceptionally talented cheerleaders, Kaylee and Khloe, and their budding football star, Elijah, as they perform at the Hixson Football Field. Below, you'll find a heartwarming family portrait featuring all nine of them, a testament to the love and unity that define their cherished household.
In order from left to right, starting at the bottom row: Khloe, Elias, Elijah, Justin, Kaylee, and then. up top, left to right, are Noah, Matt, Kristin, and Shea. Not Pictured: Russel, Ruby, Reggie, Ralphie, Regan, Raylee & the newest addition Bailey their cats and dogs.
Matt and his loving wife of 22 years knew each other for only 3 months before deciding to share a life together
Matt and Shea are deeply passionate about supporting children in foster care. This compassion is rooted in Shea's personal experience as one of four siblings adopted by Matt and his wife Kristin through the foster care system. Witnessing firsthand the challenges and high number of children in foster care, they are committed to making a difference. They offer deposit-free and discounted photography sessions to foster parents and collaborate with Tennessee Kids Belong, capturing portraits of children in the foster system who are seeking their forever homes. Shea also dreams of following in her father's footsteps by not only pursuing photography but also becoming a foster parent to older children in need of a supportive and loving home. Shea, her brother Justin, and twin sisters Kaylee and Khloe have a bond like no other.
From left to right: Kaylee, Shea, Justin & Khloe, Shea is super upset that her younger brother now towers over her after a recent growth spurt.
still have questions?
If you still have questions about our session offerings or to book a workshop or speaking engagement, feel free to fill out the form below and we will respond, normally in the first 24 hours, or click the buttons below to call the studio or text us with questions.