Photography has always been a huge part of my life. I know that phrase is over used heavily by other photographers out there, but I believe this statement to be very true for me. My entire life has been photographed and documented by my mother who was always trying to capture every memory of me and my two younger sisters. I guess it is safe to say I practically had a camera following me around everywhere I went. I cannot begin to tell you how many scrapbooks or photo albums my mother has of me and my family. It is unbelievable. Some people would be embarrassed to look back on the photos taken of them as a kid, but I surely enjoy looking back on good times!

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Photos are more than just taking a selfie or posting your outfit on social media to get likes. Photos, to me, are like tickets to memory lane where you can look at them and remember that family vacation or that first date. It's about capturing a moment you never want to forget or get tired of looking at. Photography is more than just pressing the shutter button and calling it a day. It's about getting out there, looking for the image you want and making it happen through the art of photography. Not many people look at photography as an art because it seems so simple to just point at something or someone and shoot. I only wish it were that easy and simple. Photography takes a lot of planning, organizing, getting the right elements, adjusting your camera settings and so much more. It's an art that teaches you patience, gets your creative juices flowing, and even inspires you to create art outside of photography. To me, photography is my outlet and I have never been more proud to call myself something in my life as a photographer. 

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My name is Samantha Raymond-Castro. I am the Owner/Head Photographer and Project Design of Aperture Mind Modeling and Portraiture. I would like to thank you for taking the time to view my website and see what all goes on here. Aperture Mind Modeling & Portraiture is a unique photography service based out of Newport News, VA and is specifically designed for models of all experiences. I work with new models to help get their portfolio started as well as feature experienced models in conceptual photography projects. Aperture Mind Modeling & Portraiture is friendly and excepting of ALL gender types and is a Mental Health Safe Place. Each and every session I do is with an open mind expecting endless possibilities.

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Not only does Aperture Mind Modeling & Portraiture work with models, I also work with YOU. Aside from modeling, I also do other various forms or portraiture ranging from individual, business, and family portraits to boudoir and intimate type sessions. Every session, whether paid or for portfolio building purposes, is done with care and ensuring you get quality photos each and every time. You always have the option for digital photos or quality prints from a professional lab, courtesy of White House Custom Color. Each photo is personally sized and edited by me to ensure photos retain their original quality and last for years to come.

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I look forward to working with you and hope that you enjoy what you see here. You can find Aperture Mind Modeling & Portraiture on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aperturemindphoto/. I can also be found on Instagram @aperture.mind.model and Model Mayhem as Aperture Mind. 

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All the best to you and yours!

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 Samantha Raymond-Castro

 Owner/Head Photographer/ Project Designer

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