From Florida to Italy: A Family Portrait Goes the Distance

Why Meaningful Portraits Matter—No Matter Where Life Takes You

By Diane Dultmeier | Stuart, Florida Family Photographer

Three children smiling and holding a large canvas print of their family portrait

The children proudly display their family portrait before it travels with them from Florida to their new home in Italy

Did you know that displaying family portraits in your home can actually support your child’s self-esteem?

Psychologist David Krauss, in his study Phototherapy in Mental Health, explains that when children see themselves in portraits, they begin to “see themselves as a valued and important part of the family unit.”

I believe that applies to us grownups, too—especially during seasons of transition or challenge. A portrait can remind us of who we are, who we love, and why we do all the hard things we do for our families.

A lifestyle portrait of a family walking hand-in-hand through nature

Family of five standing together in wooded Palm City area during portrait session

A warm, relaxed family portrait surrounded by trees and sunlight

A Family Portrait’s Journey Across the World

This 20x30 vivid metal wall portrait recently made a long journey from Florida to Italy. The family who owns it will be living abroad for the next three years as part of their service in the U.S. Air Force.

Before the move, the portrait hung in their Florida home, a constant reminder of the love and connection they’ve built together. Now, it’s headed to their new home in Europe—bringing a piece of familiarity and emotional grounding to a brand-new setting.

Words from Mom:

We are so thrilled that we had these family portraits created before our move to Italy! Diane photographed me as a child, took my senior portraits, and now captures images of my own growing family. She’s especially skilled at working with my children and bringing out their true personalities through natural poses—not the stiff smiles I usually get. If you’re looking for an experienced, personable photographer, Diane is absolutely the best.
Smiling couple embracing in a sunlit forest setting during a family portrait session

A loving portrait of husband and wife taken in a golden-lit Palm City wooded area

A Visual Anchor for the Whole Family

Family portraits do more than fill your walls—they become emotional anchors. In times of change, they remind us of who we are and what matters most.

Have you ever looked at your family photo and felt a little steadier, a little more grounded?

If this resonates with you, don’t wait. The seasons change quickly, and the moments you want to hold onto won’t wait around.

Family of five kneeling together for a natural light portrait in wooded Palm City setting

A heartfelt family portrait captured in Palm City before their move overseas

Schedule a phone call and take the first step toward creating something that will travel with you—wherever life leads.


Diane Dultmeier

Diane Dultmeier is a portrait artist based in Stuart, Florida, specializing in outdoor family photography, high school senior portraits, and heirloom artwork that turns fleeting moments into lasting legacy pieces. With over 25 years of experience and a background in photojournalism, Diane creates relaxed, meaningful portraits that reflect connection, personality, and belonging. Her full-service approach includes expert guidance from planning to installation—so families walk away with more than just images: they have finished artwork that warms their home and tells their story.

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