Wahoo!

Welcome to my first ever blog...

& the WHY!



If you are interested in getting to know your photographer a little bit better, I would love for you to stick around for a little read. Where do I start, where do I start. If you made it this far already, found my page, clicked on a few tabs, you know my name is Gretchen Thompson (hence the name, Gretchen Thompson Photography...hehehe), and I am here because I love to take photos...obviously :). I am a natural light family portrait photographer based in Fauquier County, more specifically Warrenton, VA. I shoot around Northern Virginia, but also love exploring new places.

If you ever wondered why someone one choose to become a photographer, here is my WHY.

Why did I want to become a photographer? First off, I love pretty photos! I have always admired couples that had gorgeous photos on their walls, but I always felt self conscious about being in front of the camera. We can all a bit self critical of ourselves, and I was no different. My weight has fluctuated up and down, and in the past few (at this point it's been many) years it's been more high than low. I avoided pictures, I didn't snap away at the camera nearly as much as I did when I was in my 20s. It wasn't until I had my daughter. I started not to worry about what I looked like, but rather if my daughter would be able to have those photos of me and I of with her. I realized it wasn't about what I looked like, but rather the importance of the image. The time it was captured and the memory that was made. It was then my mind changed and wanted to be in every photo, every moment, every memory. Since then, I wanted to change that mentality for others. I wanted to help others gain confidence, be comfortable in front of the camera, and love the photos they receive. Photos are such an important part of preserving the past, and I would love to be a part of capturing memories for families and couples.

Many people have come to me and have said (especially dads) "I hate taking photos." " I never look good in photos."

"I am so awkward." I am going to clue you in on a little secret...guess what?... most people feel the same way. But, some of the best compliments I've gotten are from those very same dads that have said "I'm awkward, I hate photos" turn into "Oh that wasn't bad." "That's it? I didn't mind it." I'll take that as a win! haha.

I have worked in customer service to some capacity for almost 20 years. I wouldn't continue to put myself in a position where I serve the public if I didn't love what I do. I love to make peoples day. I love when they absolutely are so thrilled when they are happy with the outcome of my service. Being a photographer is no different. I love to capture families. More importantly, I love to deliver images that will last a lifetime. And truthfully, professional photos are practically free! You pay once and you get to admire them for many many years to come-if not the rest of your life(girl math)!

Rapid Fire!

Here are some fun facts about me:


  • Proud Filipina (born and raised in Guam!)
  • Favorite food : Sushi (or anything asian)
  • Favorite Filipino Food: Kare Kare or Tortang Talong
  • Favorite dessert: Suman (sweet sticky rice steamed in banana leaves)
  • Favorite place I've traveled (in the United States) : Asheville, NC
  • Favorite place I've traveled (outside the US): Philippines/Guam
  • Places I want to visit: Japan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Korea, Thailand etc.
  • I was a former chef (and still loved to cook!) - Le Cordon Bleu Pittsburgh is my Alma Mater.
  • Favorite thing to cook: Anything quick and easy!
  • Some hobbies of mine: Crochet, finding a good restaurant and coffee shops (no big chains here!), and exploring new places. I have also recently go into ice skating! This would be the first time in 15 years (and I was never any good)!
  • Favorite music genre: Reggae or hip hop...but I do love me some good catchy pop music!
  • What's one movie I can put on and never get tired of : 50 First Dates!
  • Favorite TV show of all time: I couldn't pick just one...MONK and Avatar: The Last Airbender
  • You need a cocktail what is your drink of choice: MOJITO all day!


Truthfully if you want to know more, all you have to do is just ask!