About Fran: Your New Favorite
Portrait Photographer in Raleigh, NC

pink flowers on green leaves
Duke chapel with blue sky

Capturing Life’s Most Beautiful Moments, One Frame at a Time

My sessions are relaxed, laid-back, and full of fun. I believe the best images happen when you’re at ease and enjoying yourself, which is why I focus on creating an experience that feels natural, stress-free, and true to you.

Whether it’s the joy of celebration your senior year, the start of a new career, or the excitement of capturing a new milestone, my goal is always to deliver light-filled, timeless images that you’ll treasure forever.

When I’m not behind the camera, you can find me spending time with my family, sipping a warm cup of tea, exploring Raleigh’s beautiful parks, or managing our three cats – Lucky, Lacy, and Ollie (they keep life interesting!).

Photography has always been my passion, but it wasn’t until I started capturing the essence of high school and college seniors that I truly found my calling. I believe that every individual has a story worth telling, and I’m dedicated to showcasing your personality and spirit through my lens. My core values revolve around creativity, authenticity, and a genuine connection with my clients. Let’s create something beautiful together!

Hi, I’m Fran Dickenson – a light and airy portrait photographer based in Raleigh, NC, capturing life’s most beautiful and meaningful moments. My love for photography began in high school during a photography class, where I fell in love with the magic of storytelling through a lens. I’m a Certified Professional Photographer with PPA and hold a Bachelor of Arts degree from UNC-Chapel Hill and a Master of Fine Arts from UNC-Greensboro. My brother, Bill Russ, a talented travel photographer (check out his work here) has been – and continues to be – a huge inspiration in my creative journey.

I love to work with high school and college seniors for senior portraits. I also offer headshot sessions for corporate portraits and branding. I have been known to make people laugh out loud to obtain authentic smiles for portrait sessions! Now offering school portraits!

When I’m not behind the camera, you can find me spending time with my family, sipping a warm cup of tea, exploring Raleigh’s beautiful parks, or managing our three cats – Lucky, Lacy, and Ollie (they keep life interesting!).

Where do I photograph?

I photograph clients in a variety of settings, whether it’s in my cozy home studio, on-location at a spot that’s meaningful to you, or somewhere we choose together to fit your vision. I’m also happy to travel to surrounding areas (Durham, Chapel Hill, etc!) to make your session as convenient and comfortable as possible.

My portrait photography style is light, airy, and full of life, focused on capturing genuine moments with a soft, natural feel. I aim to create images that are timeless yet relaxed, with an emphasis on real connection and beautiful, flattering light. Whether I’m photographing seniors or professionals, my goal is always to make you feel at ease so your true personality can shine through.

My Style:

Blue logo with letters F and D separated by a vertical line, inside a quatrefoil shape.
Fran Dickenson portrait photographer located in Raleigh NC wearing white shirt and holding photography camera
trellis in a garden

Let’s capture your story

Your session is all about you. Be your true self. Show your fun, quirky personality. Do the things that make you happy. Laugh loudly. Enjoy yourself.

I would love to share your story through my unique perspective and creative lens. It is important to me to capture the essence of you in a way that reflects your vision. Contact me and get the process started!