Princeton-NJ-premier-family-and-headshot-photographer-Julie-Dassaro-Photography

Meet Julie Dassaro

Princeton Portrait PhotographeR

There was a time when I wasn’t sure who I was anymore.

Motherhood, as beautiful as it was, unraveled everything I thought I knew about myself. I’d been a teacher, structured, passionate, and deeply driven by connection. But once I became a mom, the identity I had worked so hard to build felt like it had dissolved. The rhythm of nap schedules replaced lesson plans. My days were filled with love, yes but also a quiet, aching sense of “What now?”

Photography started as a whisper. A part-time idea, something flexible while I figured out what came next. I started photographing families on the weekends. 

What I didn’t know then? I was about to fall in love and not just with the camera, but with what happens when a woman sees herself clearly, maybe for the first time in years.

Over a decade later, I’m still in awe of what a photograph can hold: power, softness, legacy, joy. 

The moment I watched a client tear up seeing herself on screen, I knew I had found my calling.

A Studio Rooted in Empowerment, Elegance, and Ease

My studio isn’t just about taking pictures. It’s about creating an experience that feels like coming home to yourself. 

From our first phone call to the moment you hold your final images in your hands, I’m here to walk you through every step.

I believe deeply in the power of full-service photography, complete with hair and makeup, outfit planning, guided posing, emotional support, and heirloom-quality products that last far beyond the scroll. Every detail is designed to make you feel safe, seen, and celebrated. This is what differentiates me from other portrait photographers in the Princeton New Jersey area.

I’m not here to photograph just anyone. I’m here to photograph the woman who understands the value of having elevated photos that portray her brand and show her as the expert/leader in her industry. 

I do not take it lightly when you choose me to bring out what is perhaps hidden underneath the complexity of your layers but begging to be seen, witnessed, and understood without a word.

You Belong Here

Whether you’re coming in for branding photos to elevate your business, a 40 Over 40 session to celebrate your legacy, or a family shoot that captures the heart of your home, I’m here to create space for your story.

This studio is for the ambitious, the bold, and the beautifully complicated.

It’s for the woman who’s done playing small.

“My mission is simple: to show you the beauty, power, and spark you might forget to see in yourself.”

MY VALUES

  • Empowerment: I believe every woman deserves to feel beautiful, confident, and in control of her narrative. 
  • Connection: I create a space of ease, trust, and joy. My sessions feel like spending time with a friend who happens to know exactly how to pose you.
  • Excellence: From prep guides to wall art delivery, I bring detail-oriented care to every touchpoint.

A Few Fun Facts About Me

I’m a Manifesting Generator, a Life Path 5, and an Aquarius Sun with Scorpio Moon, which basically means I’m a fast-moving, freedom-loving, deep-feeling powerhouse who loves helping people come alive through creative transformation. So basically, I have found the perfect career!

A Few Fun Facts About Me

I’m a mom, wife, and lover of long beach days with seafood dinners and late-night ice cream. Sourdough bread is my love language. 

A Few Fun Facts About Me

Photography has evolved alongside me. It’s not just my career, instead it’s truly the mirror that’s helped me reclaim the pieces of myself I thought I’d lost. 
Kind Words
Julie effortlessly brought my ideas to life! I’ve had many photo shoots before but this was pure magic. Thank you Julie for honoring my vision and making it even better.
Liana R.

From our first call I knew Julie was it. Her studio is intimate, calm and the whole process felt like working with a dear friend who just happens to be incredibly skilled.
Dannie KW

Julie turned my rushed headshot into an affirming, luxurious experience. These photos resonate with everyone who sees them.
Madeline B.

A Few Personal Tidbits

I live in South Brunswick, near Princeton with my husband and two children (you’ll find me on the back patio with strong coffee most mornings).

I’m obsessed with self-development books and always up for a beach day.

I believe photos should make you feel something.

I believe you can be bold, soft, glamorous, ambitious, playful, and radiant, and often all at once.

WHOM I SERVE

I work with high-achieving women, soulful entrepreneurs, busy professionals, and families who want their love captured in all its messy beauty. My clients often tell me they feel seen, celebrated, and safe in front of my lens.
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How far in advance should I book?

Most clients book 4-6 weeks out so we have time to plan every detail. For headshot marathons, spots can go even quicker.

Do you include hair & makeup?

Absolutely. Every full-service session includes professional hair & makeup so you feel your best.

What should I wear?

I’ll guide you on wardrobe at your consultation. We’ll pick looks that align with your brand or story.

I’m nervous in front of the camera. Will you help?

I’ve got you. I’ll demonstrate poses, give clear feedback, and hype you up the whole way.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. I want this to be an accessible luxury, so we’ll work out a payment option that suits you.

Where are you located?

I have a cozy studio right here in Princeton,  also serving Montgomery Township, South Brunswick, West Windsor Rocky Hill & beyond.

Can I see my images right after?

Yes! You’ll come back for a relaxed reveal session where we pick your favorites.

Do you offer prints and albums?

Definitely. I’m passionate about creating art you can feel, not just files that live on a hard drive.

Do you work with kids & families?

I do. I love capturing genuine, playful moments that become lifelong keepsakes.

Is professional photography really worth it?

If you ask my clients, absolutely. They’ll tell you it was empowering, confidence-boosting and completely worth the investment.

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If you’re craving images that reflect the powerhouse woman you are, or the playful family memories you never want to lose – I’d be honored to be your photographer. This is more than a photoshoot. It’s a celebration of you.