About | Dave Holton Photography

Welcome to
Dave Holton Photography

Who is Dave Holton?

I’m a New Orleans–based photographer who specializes in portraits and events for creative and business professionals, organizations, and families. I’m here to help you tell your story clearly and honestly, whether that’s through a single headshot or a full weekend of events.

My path hasn’t been a straight line. I started as a civil engineer and project manager, moved into an MBA and business strategy consulting, and eventually returned to my roots as a photographer and creative producer. Along the way, I learned how to pair analytical thinking with creativity, so every portrait shoot has both a clear plan and room for inspiration, and every event shoot combines an artistic eye with a penchant for problem-solving.

My Core Philosophy = Storytelling

My photography is built on narrative… on knowing what makes moments matter and seeing how each moment connects to a larger story.

Good photographers understand the technical aspects of light and composition. I’ve studied all of that and know it well, but great photography is more than a pretty picture.

I’ve always loved great stories, in every medium, and along the way I’ve also been a writer, film and theatre maker, and actor. I approach all my engagements the same way: as a storyteller first, photographer second.

Whether you need portraits or event photos, I’ll talk through your goals, find the throughlines, and weave them into every choice I make as a visual artist.

The result: headshots that feel like your most authentic self, photos that capture the beating heart of your event, portraits you can pass on to future generations, and branding images that help your work stand out in a crowded world.

What Customers Say…

Renee G.

Our whole photography experience with Dave could not have been easier and it was such a fun morning shoot. Since the moment I contacted Dave to see if he was available to take engagement photos of us out-of-towners, Dave was extremely professional and gave clear instructions on his contract, what would be provided during and after the shoot, and he gave helpful suggestions while working along with us to create the route, look, and vibe of what we were trying to capture. He quickly sent us over a route to review with spots and shots he was thinking of, which put our minds at ease as we got to review and collaborate with him once we could visualize where we would be, our wardrobe, and poses. He not only was an amazing photographer and captured the sweetest moments we were looking for, but he was a wonderful guide around New Orleans, as we got to visit areas along the way that were already on our bucket list. Thank you for an incredibly fun, smooth, and lovely experience - Dave made this shoot TOO EASY in the BIG EASY! 🙂

Robin Smiley

David did a fantastic job with our event and was a pleasure to work with, I’d recommend many time he really got the essence of the event!

Andre Kar

Fantastic photographer and an absolute pleasure to work with!

Veronica Diaz

I wanted to do something special and fun for my 40th. I came up with a vision or a photoshoot in a NOLA cemetery and the FQ. Since I am not from there I had no recommendations to go off of. I found Dave by chance - and so glad I did. He called me right away and talked to me about what I wanted and came back with a plan! He brought my vision to life and gave me a birthday to remember. The photos are great, but more than that, he was a blast to work with.

Jamie Nash

I searched for a photographer on yelp for family pictures. Not being from the area, I was completely green on the who, what and where. Dave is amazing! He scoped out our b&b we were staying at ahead of time, he did exactly what I asked for and was so incredibly accommodating. And the pictures... WOW! They are more than I could have hoped for. I highly recommend calling Dave for any and all photos you need.

Chelsea Langevin

Dave was so great to work with! He is easy going and wants you to be comfortable and have a good experience. For me this is super important; he listens to what you want but also helps you figure out new ideas. I worked with Dave on a show a few years ago and knew he also did photography, so it was an easy call to make. Dave is also very reasonably priced! I'm so happy with how my headshots came out. I was desperate for something new to showcase my current look and style and Dave as able to capture it perfectly. Would definitely work with him again!

Jennifer steuart

Dave was absolutely fantastic! He helped my 16 yr old daughter with her headshots, and the professional results were beautiful! As first timers, we had no idea what to expect , but Dave's friendly knowledgable demeanor made the entire experience easy and enjoyable. He walked us through every step of the process and truly went above and beyond to make sure my daughter felt comfortable and confident.This is the start of her theater journey, and we are so grateful to have Dave's expertise at this important milestone ! Highly recommend!

Shannon Zinovis

Our family gets together on the Outer Banks every year and we look forward to this all year long. I witnessed other professional photographs of beach vacations on social media and thought that my family would love to do something like this during our week in 2023. I learned about Dave Holton Photography from a friend and I couldn’t have been more pleased with the entire experience. From the beginning, Dave walked us through his vision for optimizing both the terrain and lighting, as we were taking the photos near sunset. We went in with a plan and the pictures captured everything that we had hoped that they would! Also, Dave was great with our entire family, ages ranging from 1 to 72 years. When it came time to review and order photos, everyone had the opportunity to pick their favorites and order just the ones that they wanted. Dave walked us through that process as well, and we all agreed that the venture was a complete success!! We highly recommend Dave Holton Photography and we would hire him again if the circumstances ever arise Gus and Shannon Zinovis

Adrian Bruneau

Dave Holton is a storyteller… To market yourself as a professional or your business to the consumer, it is essential that you tell your story! Holton creative is extremely talented, he tells the story through real genuine photography, poignant, written content with the craft of a superior artisan And the skill of a degreed engineer! This is what sets Holton creative apart from its competitors… Dave and his team will craft and write your story into a brilliant display and narrative that will grasp the attention of the consumer world! Rarely have I seen the ability in a firm to excel at every element of telling the story and marketing that in such a unique way. They are truly a 360° marketing firm. Let’s get The story of you and your business to the free market! Contact Dave today! (Photos from my session with Dave)

Emily Ann Mohler

Dave takes beautiful, professional photos that really capture the essence of the people and the moment involved. He is fun and easy to work with while still being professional and keeping a high standard for his work. I would absolutely recommend him as a photographer for your professional business needs or cultural/artistic events.

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What I Typically Shoot

A quick list of professional photography genres I specialize in…

And when I’m not working on a client project, I enjoy taking my camera out into the world in search of magical moments in Travel & Street Photography… continuing to practice and hone my craft in the genre that initially sparked my passion for visual storytelling.

Where I Work (Anywhere)

I’m based in New Orleans, Louisiana, but please feel free to reach out from anywhere. I work well both in the studio and on location. Whether you live in Tahiti or Timbuktu or want to travel somewhere special for your shoot, I’m genuinely happy to work with you to make it happen. I love exploring new places!

The Bottom Line

I’d love to help you tell your story, so please reach out via email, my contact page, or Instagram to connect & book me for your next photoshoot. Let’s make some photo magic together, and show the world your truth in a way that feels authentic to you, in a format that will last a lifetime (& more).

Wishing you health and happiness,
Dave