Valerie Eidson is a portrait photographer based in Asheville, NC, specializing in family and senior photography, with a deep passion for creating dreamlike composites in Photoshop. Since beginning her portrait photography journey in 2016, she has earned numerous accolades, including being named the 2024 NAPCP Photographer of the Year. Valerie is known for her artistic vision, technical skill, and dedication to community within the photography industry.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in digital media in 2004, Valerie moved to New York City to pursue a career in the fashion industry. Throughout her creative career, her love for Photoshop remained constant. When she picked up a camera after the birth of her second daughter, everything she had learned over the years came together, sparking a lasting passion for photography and editing. Having used Photoshop daily since 2000, she brings a deep understanding of both capturing and enhancing images through thoughtful post-processing.

In recent years, Valerie’s enthusiasm for teaching and supporting fellow photographers has flourished. She has taught multiple classes for the Milky Way Online Family Retreat, led local workshops and shoot-alongs, and was most recently invited to speak at the 2025 Lens and Light Photography Summit on creating magical children’s portraits. Valerie is committed to continuing her work as an educator and mentor, sharing her knowledge and passion through the NAPCP community.

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