Capturing Moments: A Legacy of Portraits That Last
Why My Mission as a Family Photographer Hasn’t Changed Since 1998
Featuring a reprinted article from Neighbors of Stuart magazine
Some photographers evolve with each new trend. Others stay rooted in a deeper tradition.
When I started creating family portraits in 1998, we were still shooting film—measuring light, metering exposures, carefully choosing each frame. There were no galleries in the cloud or digital downloads. Every portrait was printed, displayed, and meant to be enjoyed daily. And I loved that.
Over the years, photography has evolved. But my mission hasn’t.
I’ve always believed portraits are meant to live on walls, in albums, and in your home—not just on your phone. And I’ve built my business around that belief for more than 25 years.
That’s why this article, originally published in Neighbors of Stuart magazine in 2017, is still so meaningful to me. It captures the heart of my work, and I’m proud to share it with you here.
Feature Article Reprint
Capturing Moments: Elevating Portrait Photography to an Art Form
Written by Jessica Chapman for Neighbors of Stuart magazine, 2017
Reprinted with permission
A Lifelong Passion for Photography
Portrait photographer Diane Dultmeier has been taking photographs since she was 16. Growing up in Silver Lake, Kansas, she was on the staff of her high school newspaper and yearbook and went on to get a degree in photojournalism from the University of Kansas. She has worked as a newspaper, wedding and advertising photographer, but her true passion and the focus of her business for the past 20 years is taking portraits.
“I really want my portraits to reflect the personal relationships and closeness of people and have them be comfortable and relaxed,” she says.
A Full-Service Experience from Start to Finish
You will have the best Family Photo Session with Diane Dultmeier in Stuart, Florida
Diane has lived in Stuart for 25 years, is a member of the Professional Photographers of America and is the official photographer for Neighbors of Stuart magazine. She runs a full-service photography company, working with clients from concept to the delivery of finished portraits.
“I work with my clients throughout the whole process, from planning clothing and the session location to producing the final products. If you want to make sure you end up with a beautiful portrait on your wall, you want someone like me who is going to follow through from start to finish.”
Personal Attention Every Step of the Way
Diane is passionate about exceeding her clients’ expectations. She has a gallery where people can see her work and talk about their ideas with her.
“I meet with clients ahead of time so we have a plan in place. We discuss all the details, from clothing to personalities to the feeling they want their portrait to have. When we meet at the location for the session, it’s not stressful. Most people are surprised at how much fun it is and how quickly we get it done.”
Inspired by Family and Community
When it comes to inspiration, she gives credit to her uncle, Ron Dultmeier, who encouraged her to start her own business when she was in her 20s and even loaned her the money to get started.
“He’s a man of great character,” says Diane, who also mentions a Stuart friend who had his own real estate business, Tom Hornaman, who is always there to encourage and advise her.
Building Trust Through Relationships
Just speak with Diane for a few minutes and you’ll soon pick up on her professionalism and the dedication she has to her craft.
“As we go through the process of creating portraits, I definitely feel a connection to my clients and their families and I very much enjoy getting to know their stories. I have clients that I’ve been photographing for 15 to 20 years. It’s fun to see their kids grow up.”
A Mission That Stays the Same
As far as goals, Diane is dedicated to continuing to improve as a photographer and stay current with trends. Another goal is to educate people on the benefits of choosing to have a professional photographer do your family portrait at least a few times throughout the years.
“I really believe in what I do,” Diane says. “I’ve had lots of people tell me they wish they had more portraits done over the years, especially when their kids were younger. No one has ever told me they regret having professional portraits created. Photographs are a way to revisit special times in your life and can even bring back the emotions and connections you felt at that time.”
A Process Designed for Portraits That Last
Diane uses a professional Nikon digital camera during her sessions. Afterwards she narrows down the images and creates a custom slide show. She invests lots of time in helping clients choose images and products that are a good fit for them. Most of her clients want at least one beautiful canvas wall portrait, in addition to other products such as prints, albums and storyboards. Depending what is ordered, the whole process can take four to 12 weeks, since everything is custom-designed for each family.
Why Choose Dultmeier Photography?
“It’s important to me to know that my clients love their finished portraits and are extremely happy with the experience.”
And, guaranteed, she’ll do whatever it takes to make that happen.
End of article
A Few Thoughts from Me—Then and Now
When I look back at this article, I’m proud to see that my full-service, artwork-focused approach was already well established—just as it has been since I opened my portrait studio in 1998.
Back then, I was working with film, developing each image by hand, and delivering finished portraits ready to frame. And even now, after all these years and countless digital innovations, I’m still doing what I’ve always believed in—creating tangible artwork that celebrates your family’s story.
I’ve never believed in "just giving files."
Because your memories deserve more than a thumb drive.
Why Families Choose Me—Year After Year
I’ve served the Treasure Coast since 1998.
I’ve photographed some families for more than two decades.
I meet with every client before the session, so you’ll feel prepared, relaxed, and excited.
I guide you through planning, the photo session, and final artwork selection.
I create finished artwork—beautiful framed portraits, canvas groupings, albums, and folio boxes—that become part of your home and your legacy.
Ready to Tell Your Family’s Story?
If you’ve ever thought, “We really need to do family portraits,” I’d love to help you take that first step.
Let’s create something beautiful together—something real, lasting, and filled with meaning.
Schedule Your Complimentary Phone Call
Learn About the Full Portrait Experience
Based in Stuart, Florida — proudly serving Palm City, Sailfish Point, Sewall’s Point, Vero Beach, and the entire Treasure Coast.
