Cathy L. Benton, Photo Cr, FP, AFP, SP
Member of PPA, ASP and VPPA
Cathy Benton is a nationally recognized photographic artist
whose signature style is inspired by the magical works of the Old Masters.
Her honest, timeless portraits unveil a unique talent for
capturing the essence and beauty of her subjects.
“Life moves so fast. We should never wait to capture this moment through a timeless piece of art. It's later than you think!”
Cathy Benton, a full-time professional portrait photographer since 1991, built her reputation photographing women and all things of importance to them; their children, and their families.
She has been published in the international Professional Photography magazine along with FLASH – the official publication of the Virginia Professional Photographers Association (VPPA) as well as Child Couture Magazine, as well as Iconic Child Magazine. As the founder of a ballroom dance studio in Hampton Roads, she has organized dance showcases and competitions., she has been published in several dance and marketing publications.
Among her VPPA leadership roles, Cathy has served as President, Tidewater district governor, and CPP liaison. She is managing editor of VPPA publications and continues to teach, consult, and mentor other photographers.
Cathy has taught lighting, posing, sales, marketing, and motivation to photographers across the United States. She has also lectured about SEO, and website optimization for small businesses. One of her passions is mentoring fellow photographers to navigate through the complexities of running a successful photography business. “It’s an ever-evolving challenge that can be exciting if we maintain an optimistic perspective about our amazing opportunities,” she emphasizes.
One of her proudest achievements was earning her Photographic Craftsman degree from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), in recognition of her willingness to share her knowledge with others. Another milestone was the Southeast PPA Governors Award recognizing her fundraiser efforts for Operation Smile.
“My greatest personal achievements include being a kind and loving mother, wife and friend while working full-time as a successful businesswoman,” she explains. “It’s a juggling act to continue to grow and relevant in an ever-changing world.
Among her other activities, Cathy serves on the Business Educational Advisory committee for Tidewater Community College and has served as President of her church council.