Valarie Duran

PHOTOGRAPHY

Visit Site Title IT'S SO NICE TO MEET YOU •

HEY THERE, new friend.

Welcome to the love, the laughter, and the in-between moments that will one day mean everything to everyone you call home. 

Since becoming a wife and new(ish)mom, 

 rooted in Honesty, Creativity, curiosity, & connection.   

capturing your love story from marriage to parenthood has taken on an even deeper meaning to me. Together, we’ll create something lasting — an honest, artful reflection of the vibrant heart beat behind your colorful life. 

Through my lens, I’m drawn to the details that remind you how deeply connected you are to one another and to the world around you - from the quiet placement of lover's hands to the bursting laughter shared between siblings. My hope is that your photography experience invites you to slow down, feel honestly, and savor the real everyday moments that so often pass unnoticed, encouraging you to see your story with a gentler gaze and embrace the love, laughter, warmth, wonder, and natural beauty already surrounding you. I love what I do because the photographs we create will become cherished heirlooms, woven into your family’s legacy. One day, your children and grandchildren will piece them together to make sense of where they come from and who they are becoming.

Photography has been more than just an artistic expression.

What began as a gratitude practice, happiness project, and journey to healing  became my mission to give you a gift my inner child once wished for: tangible proof of your life that will one day mean everything to everyone you call home. I hold a B.A. degree in Media Studies from University of San Francisco and a M.A. degree from New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. 15 years of photographing unity in diversity across seven countries taught me how to find connection and beauty in any situation. I get it. You're a busy woman, and I'm here to take care of every thoughtful detail so you can simply be present. I'm not here to see you perfect, I'm here to give you something real, meaningful, and entirely your own. Today, from the charming island city of Alameda to the sun kissed hills of San Jose to the rugged coastline of San Francisco, I'm known for photographing wedding days, newborns, motherhood, growing families, and curious children in discovery with an easy going presence and warm personal touch. When I’m not behind the camera, you can find me chasing my toddler as he explores his new world. 


Till we get our chance to meet, shine on!

Never without

Strawberries & Flowers

favorite TRAVEL memory

Hawaii with my toddler

probably listening to

Laufey on repeat

Currently reading

Loveable by Amber Rae

Happy Place

Anywhere near the ocean

UNIQUE PERKS

inclusive

All are welcome here

My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where you can feel seen, respected, and celebrated exactly as you are. I proudly welcome and serve clients of all races, ethnicities, cultures, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, body types, ages, religions, and family structures.

giving back

Educator's heart

Rooted in service and community, my work is designed to give back. Each year, I support organizations serving women and children, and gift one to three families a complimentary photography experience. You’re warmly invited to join the waitlist and apply here. Educators are always close to my heart. Please mention it when booking to receive a 10% courtesy. 

What makes me different?

Woman owned

intuitive guide

My goal is for you to feel  heard, supported, relaxed, present, confident, and truly yourself. As our time moves quickly, I bring a calm, flexible, intuitive presence that reads the room and adapts with ease. I offer a blend of  planning and organization, with creativity and spontaneity. I know when to step in with gentle direction, and when to step back so moments naturally unfold. 

LATINX owned

culturally aware

As a Mexican American photographer who has worked in seven countries, I understand that every client has a unique set of values. Whether it involves honoring long-standing traditions, meaningful cultural customs, or everyday rituals, I care about what matters most to you.


let's get together

Are You Ready to Make the 1st Move?

Schedule a discovery call to share your vision, ask questions, and ensure we are a sweet fit.

send me a message