I'm Lena Di, a portrait photographer based in New York City. I photograph people the way I photograph for exhibitions: with attention to light, gesture and what's going on behind the eyes. My goal is a portrait that looks like you on your best day, honest, unforced and quietly striking.
About me
I was born in Russia, raised in New York, and have been a full-time photographer since 2015. My fine art photography has been exhibited in New York and internationally, and that background shapes every portrait session. I don't rely on stiff poses or heavy retouching. I'd rather find the natural angle, the real laugh and the moment you forget we're working.
Portrait sessions for every reason
- Personal portraits. For yourself, a milestone, a gift, or because you've never had a photograph you truly love.
- Creative and editorial portraits. For artists, musicians, writers and creatives who need images with character for press, album art, books or websites.
- Couples and family portraits. Each additional person in the frame is $125.
- Business and LinkedIn portraits. A polished, approachable look for your profile, speaker bio or website. See my NYC headshots page.
- Maternity portraits. Elegant, timeless images of this chapter. See maternity photography.
- Fine art and boudoir portraits. Intimate, editorial and private. See boudoir.
Studio or location
My studio is at 25 Broad St, New York, NY 10004, in the Financial District. It's a calm, private space with controlled light, ideal for clean, timeless portraits in color or black and white. I also love to photograph on location: rooftops, streets, parks and homes across all five boroughs. Location sessions within the five boroughs add a flat $125. Long Island, Westchester and New Jersey within 50 miles add $200. I'm based in New York, but I shoot worldwide, so destination portrait sessions are welcome.
How it works
- Message me on WhatsApp or at lena@lenadi.com with what you're looking for and the dates you're considering. I work by appointment only.
- We plan wardrobe, location and mood. I'll send ideas and a short guide on what to wear.
- We shoot. Relaxed, guided and never rushed. I show you images as we go.
- You choose your favorites, and I retouch them naturally.
Portrait session pricing
- Quick One, $375: 30 minutes, 1 look. Editing $30 per image.
- Quick Two, $425: 60 minutes, 3 looks. Editing $30 per image.
- Package One, $525: 60 minutes, about 3 looks, 4 retouched images included.
- Package Two, $925: 2 hours, unlimited looks, 7 retouched photos included.
- Package Three, $1,150: 2.5 hours, 10 edited photos included.
- Package Four, $1,600: 4 hours, unlimited looks, 18 edited photos included.
Add-ons: hair and makeup $300, extra half hour $225, each additional person $125. A 50% deposit secures your date. See the full price list.
What to wear
Choose clothes you feel great in and that fit well. Solid colors and rich textures work better than busy patterns or big logos. Bring two or three options so we can vary the mood. For black-and-white portraits, contrast and texture matter more than color. If you're unsure, send me photos of options on WhatsApp before the session and I'll help you decide.
Why clients choose me
My clients come to me for a fine art eye and a calm, kind process. You can read what they say on my client reviews page and on Google.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a portrait session cost in NYC?
Portrait sessions start at $375 for a 30-minute, single-look Quick One. Packages that include retouched images start at $525.
Where do portrait sessions take place?
In my Financial District studio at 25 Broad St, or on location anywhere in NYC. I also travel worldwide.
Can more than one person be in the portrait?
Yes. Each additional person is $125.
Do you photograph black and white portraits?
Yes. Black and white is at the heart of my fine art work, and I'm happy to deliver both versions.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. A 50% deposit secures your date.
How do I book?
Message me on WhatsApp or email lena@lenadi.com. Please message rather than call; I work by appointment only.
Let's make a portrait you'll keep
Message me on WhatsApp or email lena@lenadi.com to check availability. See recent portrait work, pricing and my fine art prints.