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WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN

High-End, Over-the-Top Portraits for Those Who Want More

This isn't just a photo shoot. It's an experience! Whether you're celebrating your senior year, building your brand, capturing that first baby bump or your family's legacy, or stepping into the pageant spotlight, your portraits should be as bold and unforgettable as you are. 

I create vibrant, dramatic, one-of-a-kind images that turn heads, capture emotions and showcase YOU in a way you've never seen before. From breathtaking destination sessions to statement making studio portraits, I take photography to the next level because your story deserves nothing less. 

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SESSIONS

SENIOR

DESTINATION

PAGEANT

MATERNITY

FAMILY/PETS

HEADSHOTS/BRANDING

FEATURE OF THE MONTH

The Bride of the Tide: A Haunting Story of Light, Fear, and Creation

Every October, something stirs in me creatively. I've always loved the thrill of a good ghost story...the mystery of the unseen, and the quiet tension that lives in stillness and shadow. For years, I've wanted to create something completely outside my usual work. Something that would challenge me photographically, emotionally, and artistically. This year, I finally did it. 
 
It started at the coast of South Carolina (Hilton Head Island, to be exact!) a haunting figure on a windswept boardwalk. The Bride of the Tide. Shrouded in veil and mystery, she lingered at the edge of the sea, caught somewhere between love and loss, beauty and terror. The mask hides emotion, but the body tells the story. A delicate mix of grace and unease that made me lean into the tension of posing and light in a way I've never done before. 
 
As the story moved inland, she found herself among the cornfields. A ghost displaced, perhaps searching for what she lost or who she was. But she's not alone. In the shadows, another presence emerges. Darker, grounded, almost predatory. The dark figure is never far behind, just beyond the light, always watching. Whether protector, pursuer, or part of her own fractured reflection, I wanted that ambiguity to linger. To make viewers question what connects them, and what separates them. Each image became a cinematic frame from a story still writing itself. One that blurs the line between horror and heartbreak. 

Continued on Blog page 

 
This series has been years in the making-not because I didn't have the opportunity, but because I needed to be ready to let go of perfection and step into the unknown. The lighting, the atmosphere, the posing...everything had to feel intentional yet uncomfortable real. This was about pushing myself beyond the familiar, and about creating for the sake of curiosity and fear and fascination. 
 
And now that she's here...this eerie, delicate, unsettling world...I don't think I'm done. 
 
Next year, I want to continue her story. Maybe she returns to the coast. Maybe she finally turns to face the figure that follows. Maybe you become part of it. 
 
If this haunting, cinematic style speaks to you, if you'd love to step into a story and create something unforgettable, I'd love to hear from you. Because this isn't just about portraits anymore. It's about atmosphere, narrative, and art that lingers. 
 

Stay tuned for next year's chapter of The Bride of the Tide

If you'd like to be part of the next year's haunting story, reach out early...these creative sessions will be very limited.

PHOTOGRAPHER TESTIMONIALS

What the Pros Say

A Photographer's Eye Knows Quality

When professional photographers step in front of my camera, they expect more than just a great portrait. They expect exceptional lighting, expert posing, and a level of artistry that stands out. I'm honored to have captured fellow creatives who trust my vision, experience, and dedication to delivering nothing but the best.

Words from Industry Professionals: 

Brandy Moton, M.Photog., Cr.Photog., CPP

Working with Denise was an unforgettable experience. She brought an incredible level of professionalism, creativity, and heart to my Craftsman ceremony portraits. From the moment we began, she made me feel seen, celebrated, and completely comfortable in front of the camera. Denise has a true gift for finding beauty in every moment. She chose unique, stunning locations that perfectly captured the spirit of the day and brought my portraits to life. Her posing direction was thoughtful and flattering, and somehow, she knew exactly how to highlight my personality and style in every frame. I walked away from our session feeling confident, radiant, and truly beautiful. What sets Denise apart is her ability to not just take a photo, but to tell a story. She captured more than just images—she captured emotion, pride, and joy. Her passion for her craft and care for her clients shine through in everything she does. If you want a photographer who will honor your moment and elevate your memories, Denise is that person. I couldn’t be more grateful.

Molly Beale, C.P.P.

Denise was so agreeable to getting up at the crack of dawn so she could photograph me doing what I love most…shooting sunrise! I’m SO glad I have these portraits, and can’t wait to use them on my marketing materials! After sunrise on the beach, we headed to a super cute candy shop that we had all to ourselves! To say I’m in LOVE with the portraits she made of me there would be an understatement! She knew just how to pose and light me to make me look my very best! I also felt extremely comfortable with how we decided, pre-session, for me to dress. I’m not fancy, and am pretty basic. Denise picked out just the thing that looked like me and I was comfortable in! I could go on and on, but will just say, if you’re considering portraits with Denise, DO IT! You won’t regret it!

Sarah Lindsay, Photographer

Working with Denise is a one of a kind experience! Walking into her studio, she immediately makes you feel at ease and like you’ve been best friends for decades. She is also an expert at lighting and posing you in the most flattering ways. Getting headshots done by Denise was the best decision and I use the headshots she took on literally everything!

Bertha Bishop, C.P.P.

Denise is such a professional. All you need to do is show up. She will take care of the rest and make you feel and look like a million bucks! From lighting to posing and everything in between, the results speak for themselves. Having her take my portrait was truly an awesome experience!

Your Dream Session Awaits...

Let's create something extraordinary! Fill out the form below and let's start planning a session that's as bold, vibrant, and unforgettable as you are. I can't wait to hear your vision! 

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WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN
WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN
Denise Watrous Photography Logo
WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • PORTFOLIO
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  • CONTACT