The Icon Within
The Icon Within
A Timeless Exploration of Self
The Art of Being Seen
You’ve spent a lifetime becoming who you are today.
You’ve lived, loved, triumphed, grieved, laughed, and grown into a presence that is both radiant and unforgettable.
Now, it is time to capture that truth — not just for yourself, but as a legacy for those who will one day look upon your portrait and see who you truly are.
More Than a Portrait
A Fine Art Experience
The Icon Within is beyond a traditional photoshoot.
It is a curated, black-and-white editorial portrait experience designed to reveal the full spectrum of your humanity.
Through a guided conversation of 25 evocative questions, I will capture your expressions as they unfold naturally — joy, vulnerability, pride, tenderness, strength, and everything in between.
The result is a body of work that transcends “what you look like” to these portraits speak to the icon you already are.
Timeless, Elegant, and Unforgettable.
For Those Who Are Ready to Be Seen
This experience is designed for those who:
Value art and wish to celebrate themselves as living works of art.
Desire to leave a lasting memory for family and future generations.
Appreciate the intimacy of authenticity over perfection.
Are ready to honor not just their beauty, but their truth.
Graciela Laurent Photography is Western North Carolina’s only private, forested destination studio where award-winning portraiture meets bespoke retreat experiences, offering clients unparalleled privacy, luxury, and soulful transformation.
About Graciela
As a soul-led guide and visual storyteller, Graciela doesn’t just capture images — she facilitates emotional metamorphosis. With 15+ years of award-winning photography and a sacred space designed for healing and radiance, she is a trusted expert in the art of becoming visible — both emotionally and visually.
A Private Destination Studio
Nestled within a secluded four-acre forested sanctuary in the mountains of Western North Carolina, my studio is a space of privacy, luxury, and soulful discovery. Clients travel from across the country to step into this retreat-like haven — where time slows, and space is created for you to simply be.
The Legacy You Leave Behind
Your portraits from The Icon Within are not just photographs. They are heirlooms — intimate works of fine art that carry your essence forward.
They become touchstones of memory, reflections of love, and timeless reminders of your strength and humanity.
Begin Your Journey
This is more than photography. This is The Art of Being Seen.
Are you ready to explore The Icon Within?
What Clients Are Saying!
“She was very open, affirming and accepting. I felt loved and I never felt judged.
I like that Graciela made me feel comfortable. Graciela is obviously comfortable working with large and lovely women and transgender women.”
— Misty A.
“Growing up I suffered from years of self-esteem issues. This shoot solidified everything that I am. And my inner child is healed!
If you are looking for a photographer with vision, professionalism, commitment, and excellence, LOOK NO FURTHER!
Thank you, Graciela!”
-ShaRhonda G
“I couldn’t write enough to express how grateful I am to have met and been a client of Graciela Valdes. She was extremely professional, talented and genuinely caring.
Her exceptional eye for photography is so evident in her work and the photos that I received.
She wants to make you feel and look your best and I think that’s so important when choosing a photographer. Thank you so much again for everything. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Graciela!!”
— Ms. C
“When I think back to the session, this slight wave of confidence comes over me... It’s pretty powerful”
— Mrs. L
“Graciela’s incredible talent is obvious when you see her work. That she gives self-confidence to her clients makes the entire process priceless.”
— Mrs. C
“Graciela is a fantastic photographer. She made me feel so comfortable and empowered and the pictures came out amazing. Truly a gem!”
— Mrs. V
Get in touch.
Fill out the form below! I’ll be in touch via phone, email, or text with pricing & other session details!
Not a fan of forms?
I’ll tell you exactly what you need to know.
Email me at: graciela@gracielalaurent.com
Call me at: (828)998-3988
Visit me in: Murphy, NC
Our private, By-Appointment-Only studio is situated on 4 wooded acres just a few minutes from Downtown Murphy, North Carolina. We are also available for on-location portraiture photography in the Western North Carolina and Northern Georgia regions as well as travel to destinations beyond. From anywhere in the world, fly into Atlanta (ATL), a major international hub, then take a scenic 2 hour drive across Georgia and North Carolina’s gorgeous countryside!
You don’t need to be “ready.”
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
All you need is a whisper of yes.
I’ll take care of the rest.
More About Graciela
I’m Graciela — soulful visual storyteller, intuitive space holder, and celebrator of women reclaiming their worth.
For over 15 years, I’ve guided women through transformational portrait journeys that begin with fear and end in fierce self-love.
I don’t just take pictures.
I see you.
Whether you’re stepping into your power for the first time or remembering what’s always been there — this experience is for you.
“Graciela truly listens to her clients!” - Amanda
“She creates a very personal experience that makes you feel so special!” - MD
Testimonials
“My absolute favorite part, was the reveal of my proofs with Graciela… We both cried.”
“I loved doing the shoot, I was in the zone and Graciela really made me feel so comfortable. I have never been so blown away in my life. She brought my vision to life with my shoot. I will cherish this forever.””
— C.B.
“She has an amazing, positive energy which is infectious when you're working with her.”
“She makes you feel relaxed when you are nervous and knows all the right things to say so you can be comfortable - therefore she can get that most authentic, perfect shot of you.”
— A.G.
“The studio atmosphere was peaceful and the setup was amazing. It made me feel at my best when I posed for the shoot.”
“Graciela is one of the best Photographers I've encountered. The photos were outstanding and she handled with the spirit of excellence. The makeup artist did an outstanding job as well. She was amazing. My face was flawless. Everything was very professional and worth it every minute.”
— L.W.
“A celebration of strength, power, beauty, and confidence! This session changed my life!”
It is, Graciela, as you say, a celebration of femininity. I feel it every day! Meeting women like you and those you touch is so inspiring! Makes the indefatigable part of us keep going!
— Mrs. A
“You don’t have to look a certain way and it doesn’t have to be perfect. Just be yourself.”
“I loved that the portraits were classy with a little bit of sexy at the same time. I even did a little bit of nudity! I would 100% recommend this experience to anyone! It’s all about having fun and being yourself.”
— Mrs. L
“I now have a set of pictures I am proud to display and that will always remind me of what a positive and professional experience I had.”
It was evident that the experience would be transformational. Any insecurities I had about my physical appearance were put at ease. She and her team made me feel beautiful. We laughed and even came to tears at times as we shared stories, that clearly informed her in getting to know you better to help bring out your best in front of the camera.”
— C.F.C.
North Carolina portrait boudoir and branding photography studio. Graciela is a published, award-winning, and professionally certified portrait photographer.
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