Meet Diane
For Diane, photography has always been more than a profession—it is a calling. Diane’s journey into photography began at a deeply personal moment, when her mother, on her deathbed, affirmed the artistic gift she was meant to share. Diane left a successful corporate career to pursue photography full-time. Within just four months of opening her studio, she had booked 17 weddings, a testament to the passion, artistry and professionalism that define her work.
EXPERIENCE
With over 20 years of experience in the photography industry,
our passion for photography has only grown.
Over the past 2 decades, her business has evolved alongside her family, shifting from weddings & families to the work she is most known for today: fine art portraits of children, seniors, and equestrians. What sets Diane apart is not only her artistry, but her ability to connect. Her warm, playful spirit creates a stress-free, joyful atmosphere where clients feel at ease, allowing her to craft portraits that are as timeless as they are heartfelt. She coaxes laughter from children through play, helps seniors feel confident in front of the camera, and gracefully guides equestrians with their horses—always ensuring her clients feel comfortable and celebrated.
Her reputation is built not only on beautiful images but also on the seamless experience she provides. With quick turnaround times, expert retouching, and a dedication to going above and beyond, Diane ensures that every client receives impeccable service as well as heirloom portraits.
Away from the studio, Diane shares life with her husband, two daughters—one in college and one in high school—their two Labradors, a pony, and a horse. Her youngest fosters kittens, who are often seen playfully exploring the halls of their home. In her free time, Diane can be found ringside at horse shows, tending her garden, curled up with a book, or sneaking away for a restorative day at the beach.
Her work has been honored with seven consecutive years “Best Family Photographer” awards and published in Southern Bride, Woman’s World, Carolina Bride, and Cary Magazine. With glowing 5-star reviews across Google, Yelp, and Facebook, Diane has built lasting relationships with families who return year after year to preserve their most cherished moments. For Diane, portraiture is more than photography—it is about building relationships and capturing legacy.
For those who value artistry, exclusivity, and legacy, her work offers more than portraits—she creates timeless fine art, imbued with beauty and meaning, to be treasured for generations.
The Studio
Welcome to our photography studio! We are located in historic Boylen Heights just minutes from Downtown Raleigh, Dorothea Dix Park, and NC State. Our building is at the dead-end of West Lenoir Street and McCullough. We are in a building with six other artists. Two artists are outside and the remaining including our studio are located inside. Take the ramp between the two buildings down to the door on the right at the end of the ramp. You will see our sign on the wall adjacent the door as well as on the door itself. We are upstairs, the first studio on the right. Just ask Siri for driving directions to Diane McKinney Photography or click here for google maps.
Our studio is BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, so please contact us before coming.
See you soon!