A LITTLE ABOUT US

Amanda

I grew up in the Tidewater area and have lived in Charlottesville for the last 10+ years after attending UVA. Photography became a passion during college and I honed my craft as a wedding photographer for many years. I love hiking and spend a lot of my free time creating my own cocktails and planning events for friends at my home in Madison County. My dream is to someday write and photograph a book about craft drinks.

Gailan

I grew up in Virginia Beach but found my way to Charlottesville in 2020 and now I call it home. I spend most of my time as a homebody hanging out with my cats and partner. I have always been interested in photography and have been drawn to beautiful things In life, which is what molded me to be interested in doing hair and makeup. My favorite part about being a member of this team is helping women to see their natural beauty. Watching someone’s confidence instantly grow is the most gratifying part of this work.

Outdoor photography session showing artistic poses with camera equipment.
Casual portrait session against a brick wall and white door showing playful poses with camera.

What is Sûr de Soi?


When brainstorming names for our studio, we knew we wanted to create a brand that captured our vision of an inclusive, empowering, and comfortable space to create stunning images for our clients to enjoy. The French phrase translates to self-assured and confident; those words encapsulate exactly how we want you to feel when you are in our studio.


About Your Team


Amanda and Gailan have over a decade combined of photography experience. Amanda enjoyed a career as full-time wedding and portrait photographers in Central Virginia. Gailan has professional photography experience capturing homes for real estate and taught herself hair and makeup skills. When they met at their current job at a property management company in Charlottesville they decided to combine creative forces to open a studio unique to the needs of the Central Virginia area.


About the Studio


Sûr de Soi Studio is located in Charlottesville, VA and includes two separate rooms for a variety of background options. The boudoir suite includes a bed, chandelier, mirrors, multiple chairs, and much more to furnish this beautiful bedroom fit for a queen. The traditional photography suite includes a variety of backgrounds, including large paper backdrops in multiple color options, a 3D design wall, and a flower wall. Studio lighting is located throughout, and the boudoir suite is blanketed in natural sunlight from the large, antique windows.


Minimalist black and white stage performance photography in empty studio space.
Elegant boudoir photography series with natural window lighting and soft poses.
Minimalist boudoir photography against white backdrop featuring black lace lingerie.
Artistic portrait series showing figure in white sports bra with purple lighting effects.
Dramatic black and white boudoir portraits with expressive poses and moody lighting.
Silhouetted profile portraits with glasses against dark background creating dramatic mood.
Intimate silhouette photography with warm amber lighting creating soft contours.
Low-key photography series featuring dramatic poses in dark shadows.
Sports bra fashion series with vibrant purple and blue lighting effects.
Behind the scenes photoshoot setup in a bright studio space with lighting equipment and a white couch.
Wide angle view of photography studio setup showing lighting gear and white backdrop.
Crystal chandelier with warm lighting creates an elegant ambiance in soft focus.
Professional photography studio setup with natural window light and white furniture.
Luxurious bedroom featuring crystal chandelier, string lights, and plush bedding.
Orange-lit studio photography session with dramatic lighting and equipment visible.
Bright interior photography of an elegant room with natural window light and minimalist decor.
Row of cosmetic bottles and beauty products lined up on light colored surface.
Professional photography studio setup with black backdrop and lighting equipment.
Dramatic black and white studio photography session with silhouetted figures.
Collection of makeup brushes arranged on dark surface with soft focus effect.
Dark moody photography session with dramatic lighting and camera equipment.
Professional photography equipment arranged in a bright room with natural window light.
Soft white bedding and pillows illuminated by string lights create a cozy bedroom atmosphere.
Behind-the-scenes photo shoot setup in a bright studio space with lighting equipment and white backdrop.
Neon blue and pink lighting creates atmospheric effects during a studio photo session.
Black and white photography session showing dramatic lighting and camera equipment.
Elegant vanity setup with framed artwork and decorative items on wooden surface.
Close-up shot of makeup application during a professional photo shoot preparation.
Artistic black and white studio photography session with dramatic lighting and equipment.
Makeup tools and notebooks arranged on wooden surface in natural lighting.
01 / 21