When people walk into my studio, they often have an idea of what to expect- sitting in front of my camera, looking into the lens, and smiling. It is my sincere pleasure to show them that there is incredible beauty in the authenticity of an expression, of a moment, and it doesn’t necessarily mean smiling. […]
One of the most important things you can capture with your camera is your family traditions- and especially holiday traditions. Traditions often go unnoticed because they are so “normal,” but they also risk being forgotten years down the road if they aren’t saved! One of our favorites holiday traditions is that we get our Christmas […]
When a woman books a Signature Session, I want her to know I’m right there with her throughout the process. When she comes back to the studio to see her photographs, I want the first time she sees them to be a beautiful experience, as well. I created this reveal video for a client recently […]
The various elements of a professional headshot session are very important- everything from your clothes to hair & makeup will contribute to someone’s first impression of you when they see it online. For this New Haven Headshot session we decided an outdoor backdrop would provide an interesting context for her engaging, yet professional look, and […]
When a woman inquires about a portrait session, I always encourage them to consider a Signature Session. Each Signature Session is different as each one is designed for a specific woman- who she is and how she would like to be photographed at this moment. For this session, Barbara wanted to be captured in a […]
The best part of family photography, for me, is being able to stop time for my clients- being able to give them a moment to hold onto that will never change. These moments are most pronounced when I photograph babies and young kids because they change so quickly. This sweet little, for example, now scoots […]
As most people who know me will readily tell you, I love good food and wine. Getting to know the local restaurants is not only something to do for a night out, but a personal passion! I met Leslie, the driving force behind the site A Winery Review several years ago and was thrilled to […]
I am beyond excited to launch today a new style of photo session! The studio’s new Signature Sessions are an exploration of who you are and are an incredible experience. They are called Signature Sessions because each session is as custom as your signature- and is all about you. Each Signature Session begins with professional […]
This lovely young woman stepped into my Paris studio with a beautiful smile and a contagious laugh. What a joy it was to spend the afternoon with her! There are so many ways to add a Parisian feel to your photoshoot-–even if you can’t be in Paris! This top hat was from a Paris market, […]
Hello! My name is Karissa Van Tassel and I am a photographer based in New Haven, Connecticut. I am passionate about the power of a photograph to connect us to each other, to our memories, and even to our own reflections.
My team and I create timeless photographs for our clients, but it is so much more than that. We've spent the last decade developing an experience for you that is both fun and memorable. We've created partnerships that give us access to unbelievably beautiful products so your photographs aren't just beautiful, they are truly works of art. In short, we take great care with every detail of your photoshoot- from the makeup we use (do you have any allergies?) to the backdrops and wardrobe we purchase and even the final products you take home.
When I'm not at the studio I love to travel, capturing new photographs for my fine art series. My work can be found in private collections around the world, and has been featured in The New York Times, CNN, National Geographic, Forbes, MSN, and Connecticut Cottages & Gardens. I am a fellow at Yale University's Morse College and live in New Haven with my husband, Dr. Paul Van Tassel, and our three kids.
