Andrea Pender Photography, Roanoke

Andrea Pender's sunny attitude seems to reflect her love of outdoor photography. A shutterbug since childhood, she has learned to channel natural light to enhance both urban and earthy settings. Her studio sits by a patch of woodland and a burbling creek often featured in her shoots. She doesn't get bored of the scenery, though, because she brings her signature chipper spirit and a fresh artistic eye to each new session.

Andrea specializes in family portraits and weddings, though she also snaps baby photos, boudoir images, and headshots. By building a comfortable repartee with every visitor, she is able to capture candid moments without first disguising herself as a piece of topiary.