Welcome!  In order to view my galleries, please click on the link below:
http://valleyvisionsphotography.smugmug.com/
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What clients had to say about
Karen and Valley Visions Photography:

 "The experience was unforgettable."
Leslie Paquette, Central High School

“My experiences with Valley Visions Photography are always better than I could imagine. Karen is so unbelievably patient with our family and has the best ways of getting our kids to smile. My family all live out of town so having the proofs online for viewing is a real gift to them. The actual images always seem to capture my family for who they really are and her prices are the best around. I think the best thing about Karen is that she is NEVER in a rush. Most other photographers are trying to get done so they can get to the next person but you always feel like you are the only thing Karen is doing that day. It is so nice to feel special! Thanks Karen.”   - Carla and Jason Stanton, Holmen

“Karen does an excellent job!  Not only are the pictures amazing but the photography sessions are wonderful as well!  Being a parent of a two year old, I appreciate that Karen takes the time to know and play with my daughter to really bring out her personality in the pictures.  The portraits really show the spirit of our bubbly little girl!  Karen takes breaks and doesn’t “push” our child to fit into an adult’s timed session.  We have been so lucky to have Karen as our photographer for the last three years.  Every year she gets better and better.” – Todd & Laura Roessler, Rochester, MN

“The best part about working with Karen was that she is professional, yet friendly and caring. She also followed through on every one of her commitments as far as timing and pricing. Many times, the finished products were completed before I expected them. I like the way everything is priced so that you can pick and choose several different photos and not be stuck with a package deal where you end up buying things you don't want. Karen is very patient. At times, the child and parent may not agree. She helped us work through those times. In fact, I would say the photo sessions were the best times I have had with my son all year. It was so much fun!! Karen has very creative ideas on where to take outdoor photos. Some of our best photos are next to a muddy creek!!   I do not take my personal recommendations lightly. I have high expectations. I feel that Karen offers everything you want/need in a Senior Portrait session with the added bonus of reasonable pricing. I am sure you will not be disappointed.” Mary Isaacs (Patrick Isaacs, Central High School)

“I can't just say that there was one "best thing" about Karen because there were many "great things". First of all, she made my 2 year old very comfortable with the camera. She spent about 10 minutes just playing with him and getting to know what made him laugh. Second, she took time to discover what the true characteristics were of our children...each photo was unique. Working with Karen was like having my friend take snapshots of our everyday life!”  -Jill Anderson, Cottage Grove

“Karen did an excellent job with our outdoor family portrait.  She came to the site before hand and looked it over.   She gave suggestions on props and colors.  The day of the shoot she made it very painless. Our family consists of three big boys and one little princess so it isn't easy coordinating the different sizes. I can say Karen made even our family look great.  The most awesome part was she incorporated our baby plan and our family portrait into the most awesome Christmas Card.  It has been two seasons and I still see that card displayed in many of our friends and families homes.  She does an awesome job with the finished product.  Karen comes HIGHLY recommended.”

-LeAnne Mlsna, Cashton

 “What I like about Karen, opposed to other choices, is that she really "gets" kids.  She is so patient with them, and makes them feel comfortable with her.  The kids get to be themselves, and we never feel forced, or rushed.  I will not take my kids anywhere else!”       -Cori Fortney, Viroqua

 “Karen did an absolutely wonderful job with my senior pictures.  She did an excellent job at catering to my specific wants and needs by getting to know me before my session.  She did her "homework" so well, that she was able to find a field of flowers on private property that we could take pictures in because I love flowers.  I am so glad that we chose Karen for my senior pictures because it was nice having flexibility in choosing pictures as there was no set packages.  She made two custom graduation invites for me, too, which I absolutely love.  During my session, I felt comfortable enough around Karen that I felt like I could be myself which definitely came out in my photos.  I am so glad that we chose Valley Visions Photography for my senior pictures and I know my brother’s images this summer will turn out as well.”  –Sara P., Central High School

 "Working with Karen was great!  Her friendly personality puts everyone at ease.  She takes the time to get to know her clients and their interests, which enables her to capture their true personality on film."  -The Haugens', Westby

 “Karen will keep working until she feels she has the perfect shot.  The best part is that Karen works hard to give the customer what they want.  She is fabulous with children!!!  It is great having a wonderful photographer in the area.  Karen always does something different with the kids.  I have a difficult time choosing which pictures I want as there are so many great ones!  Overall, I have had many great experiences with Karen and highly recommend her for your photographerof choice!”  Elizabeth Wood, La Farge

 “Karen has such an amazing talent for taking pictures.  You capture the beauty of each child I have had so many comments on the pictures of the boys taken together.  They are amazing!!  Words cannot express how I feel when I look at them.  Thank you!”  -Scott & Mandy Holtz, Viroqua

 “Karen got to know my son and I so she could capture our real personalities on film.  She's incredibly creative, and worked with us until she got the perfect photo.  As a mother, she knows babies are unpredictable and works around their schedules.  Karen embraces the beauty of motherhood, and the bond between mom/child with great skill.  I have been so happy with the outcomes of my sessions, and the availability of seeing the photos online is wonderful.” – Katie Peterson, Viroqua

 “One of our most cherished photos is actually of our son's beloved stuffed animal that Karen thought to snap a picture of!   While we were busy adjusting Severin's clothes, Karen snapped a picture of 'Piggy'.  Severin now has his best friend proudly framed on his dresser.  Long after Piggy is gone, we'll still have this precious photo to remind us how much Piggy is treasured by Severin.  Thanks Karen!!” – Jennifer Tubbin, Viroqua

 “Karen has a talent that shines through in every session she does!  I feel she puts her heart into all of her work to capture the individuality and beauty of each child.  I could not ask for anything more!  I tell all my friends with children they HAVE to go to Karen.  I will cherish the pictures of Hudson forever.  I can't stop looking at them!!!   I just sit at the computer and smile.  These pictures will bring back many wonderful memories in the future!”  Amanda Running, Viroqua

 “The first time I saw Karen Solverson's work was at Syttende Mai, I was very impressed.  The displays of pictures she had were very good. I decided to call her and have my son's senior pictures taken there. Karen was very easy to work with and very accommodating and made you feel very comfortable.  Karen has many different & fun ideas for your session.  I would recommend Karen for your senior pictures or any other pictures you need!” – Marcie Engh (Jeremy Engh, Westby High School)

 “Working with Karen is always a joy. Karen is one of the most talented photographers I have ever seen or worked with. She is so creative and unique and I am always so pleased with the finished product. What matters most to me is capturing the relationships between child and his or her parents. She has always captured amazing moments for me. I love to see pictures of my daughter being herself and not necessarily a posed portrait. She plugs her ears and shakes her head when we shoot, but that is who she is, and that is how I want to remember this time. Karen "gets" us. She gives me the images that I would want or would only dream of. I love her to death and would recommend her to everyone!” – Steph Neprud, Viroqua

“I absolutely love working with Karen!!  My son is a typical boy and sometimes hard to capture in a way that would make a picture look great, but Karen always finds a way to do just that.  She takes her time and really finds what works.  After trying different photographers, she is the only one we will use.  She is an awesome photographer and you will not be sorry in any way with her work.”  -Cathy Seidel, Viroqua 

 “We really enjoyed our photo session with Karen. We went for our son's 1 year photos and some family shots. The overall experience was pleasant and took place in a fun filled atmosphere. Karen was very professional, and as a mother, she was very understanding and concerned with our son's safety and needs.  When we needed short breaks, we all took a minute to walk around and regroup. We have gone to studios in department stores before but time always seemed like a bigger factor then quality experiences and memorable photos.  At Valley Visions Photography, time didn't even come up as a motivator for finishing the session.  Thanks again Karen!”  -Dan, Erin and Hunter K., Cashton, WI

 "Working with Karen on our family pictures was absolutely wonderful.  She came right to our house and took some amazing photos.  She did a great job working with my 3 year old son and I couldn't have been happier with the photos.  I have recommended her to many others.  There was only one problem - choosing which ones to order since they were all so great!" - Amber Bethke, Westby, WI

 “Karen is absolutely incredible. She was able to capture Braden in a way that not anyone else could. It was truly him - drool and all!”  - Jackie Pederson, Cashton

 “All I can say is wow!!!!!!  You are truly gifted.  Thank you for the perfect card!” -Jamie Dunnum, Westby

 “Your photography is amazing!  I'm so glad I chose to go to you. :)”  - Taylor Schroeder, Viroqua High School  (and from Shelley – “Karen truly has a special eye for making outstanding portraits!”)

“Karen did a great job with our grandson, Aiden.  Karen was able to get us in quickly, knowing he was visiting us.  Karen spent time with us knowing we wanted treasured pictures of our first grandchild.  I would recommend (and do) Karen to everyone.” 
- Daniel and Melissa Lee, Viroqua

"I couldn't have asked for a better senior picture experience. Karen did everything possible to make sure that I was happy with my pictures. Not only was she amazing to work with, she took the time to get to know me so that she could make sure I got exactly what I wanted. She listened to my ideas and added imput to make them even better.  The pictures that she took were beautiful and were so full of meaning after it all was said and done. I couldn't have choosen a better person to take my pictures!"

..........Laci Mickelson, Viroqua High School, Class of 2007

"The pictures are amazing...timeless...I love all of them.  Words cannot explain the feelings I have when I look at them.  You captured her so well. :) Thank you so much!"

..........Molly & Nate Buros, Viroqua

"Absolutely outstanding!  We watched the maternity DVD this morning again, and yes, I was crying again!  Phil thought it was such a beautiful piece, too...so professionally done.  He agreed that you had indeed captured Timmy on film.  I truly think that only you could have done that!  You captured Becky’s soul and let her loving personality shine through.  She was so beautiful in all the images.  Thank you so much, Karen!  We love you!"

..........Maribeth S., Viroqua

 "You truly are an amazing photographer.  I have been handing your card out to everyone!  We love what you have done for us.  The pictures are very special and you know how to capture the beauty in such an amazing way.  You are incredible!  Thank you for making this a special remembrance for us."

..........Lacey & Chelsea Vinger, ’07 – Kickapoo HS

"Karen was great to work with. She was very willing to work with us. She was very personal and friendly and she loves the outdoors. We loved her work."

..........Geralyn & Ben Klinkner, Cashton High School

"Karen took my son Ben's senior pictures and did a very professional job.  Ben is an individual who is not comfortable being in front of the camera and his body language and facial expression testify to that comfort level.  Karen actually took the time to get to know my son by sending him a questionnaire and by talking to me about what Bens interests were and some funny stories to get him to smile.  All the poses that Karen had my son do were very natural and relaxed.  During the photo session, Karen would often say "Just do what is natural," and the photos reflected that.  Her personality put Ben at ease very quickly.  It was very difficult to choose which photos to have printed because there were so many that truly reflected who Ben really was. Our whole family is extremely happy with the quality of work that Karen did."

"Karen was able to capture our children at home where they were most comfortable, and the result was images that truly represent their liveliness and relationship with each other.  The photos are exactly the way I think about my kids at this time and how I want to remember them, not the way they would look in a studio setting with a blank backdrop.  I know these photos will be a keepsake for us and our extended family for a lifetime."

...........Myra Reuter, Westby, WI

"Working with Karen on my senior pictures was an amazing experience.  She took the time to get to know who I was and she listened to what I wanted.  That meant a lot to me because I was able to help create my senior pictures right along with her.  I couldn't have been more satisfied with my results and total experience, not to mention the cost was incredibly reasonable.  Karen provides an amazing quality at an affordable rate.  Thanks so much, Karen!"

..........Tasha Mills, Viroqua High School, Class of 2006


"WOW!  We both think that the pictures are AWESOME!  Thank you for being so creative with your photos.  We really love the pictures and can't wait to share them with the family.  We just love them - what a great experience!  We will send the Kickapoo "Seniors" in the future your way.   Great job."

.......Lacey and Chelsea Vinger, Kickapoo High School


 "Karen Solverson did a wonderful job with my children's pictures.  She is creative, quick and gets to know your child. She did a wonderful job with my 3 year old daughter who hates the camera. We went to the park on a playdate and ironically Karen's camera and equipment were there.  The pictures turned out great.  My daughter even asked me if we could go on a walk to the park the other day and have some more pictures taken, major breakthrough!  Thank you Karen, we'll be back!"

.........Karri Yttri, Viroqua, WI

"I just want you to know that I truly love, love, love these pictures. You gave me the exact images that I would have wanted, and I cannot tell you enough how happy Phil and I are with them. They are sooo adorable..I look at them all the time, and I had such a tough time deciding which ones to pick."

........Steph & Phil Neprud, Viroqua

"WOW!  The pictures look wonderful and we are having a difficult time choosing. Brittney's senior pictures are outstanding. We wanted pictures that were unique and creative and Karen did just that.  We were absolutely thrilled with Karens ability to capture her personality and smile on the portraits!  Thanks, it was great fun and I know Brittney had fun, too.  I have been asking everyone I work with to help us decide what ones we like best. Thanks again...We will recommend Karen to all of our friends."

...........Shelley & Brittney Gabrielson, Westby High School


"We absolutely LOVE the pictures!  I haven't even looked at the price list yet, because I just keep looking at the pictures over and over and showing everyone to see what they think.  Thanks a lot!"

.......Cori Fortney, Viroqua, WI

"I love the pictures!!!  Thanks again for being so flexible with us.  I think it really helped us out to get what my mom says are the best photos our kids have ever taken!!" 

..........Sherri Berg, Coon Valley, WI

"Karen was great!  She came right to our house, where the kids would be comfortable.  The pictures were amazing and were exactly what we were looking for." 

........Angie Dahl, Soldiers Grove, WI

"I heard of Valley Visions Photography from a friend I work with that had her family pictures done with Karen.  I thought her prices sounded great, and I liked her style so I thought I would give her a try. I was very impressed; she was wonderful with my daughter, she took tons of pictures in many different areas and with many clothing styles. She was concerned with what I wanted and she took her time, and that meant a lot to me.  The end results were perfect.  They were just what we had been looking for in outdoor pictures.  They were done within days. The collage she put together of some of Erin's pictures were just what we wanted, and if I wanted something changed, she changed it in no time, emailed me right away and I had the new photo to view online.  I couldn't have asked for a better job. The quality of her work was that of a professional who has been doing this for years.  I recommend Valley Vision Photography.  I will for sure be taking my daughter back.  Karen went above and beyond to make sure we were satisfied with our end results.  Thanks Karen, for the great memories."

.........Brenda Torgerson, Viroqua, WI

"I heard about Karen through a friend who had their family pictures taken by her.  Karen did a beautiful job on my son's pictures, which she made fun and exciting. She had several suggestions for poses, outfits, and backgrounds, but was open to our ideas as well. Karen was very patient with my son and made the session very relaxing and fun, which is difficult to do with a one-year-old. Their natural expressions were captured and she took the time for expressions to come."

........Tia Tracey, Coon Valley, WI

"We found out about Karen and Valley Visions Photography by chance, which turned out to be a wonderful thing! She did a beautiful job on our maternity photography and included our three year old into the pictures in some very fun and creative ways. She had several suggestions for poses, outfits, and backgrounds but was also totally open to our ideas as well. The session was very relaxed and fun, even for our three year old! The pictures all turned out beautifully with such a light and airy qualityl that really captures the feel of our family. We now have a very special series of prints and portraits that tell a story about our experience."

........Melissa Hellwig, Coon Valley, WI

"Karen was a great photographer to work with.  Her enthusiasm and professionalism shone through in our entire photography session.  Her efforts to make my photography session a positive experience were astounding.  The collage that Karen was able to put together showed her commitment and imagination with photography.  I very pleased with the photographs and will recommend her to others."

........Jamie Dunnum, Westby, WI

"We thought it was terrific to have found Karen and Valley Visions Photography.  Karen takes the time to find out what you want.  Our son wanted a particular shot for his senior pictures, and she was more than willing to make it happen.  He was completely at ease with her and it showed in the photographs. We will definitely be coming back for more family shots."

........Michelle & Corey Primmer, Viroqua, WI

"You did a great job.  I loved all the black and white the way that you put the hands into a picture was so neat. You really captured her just the way I wanted it. Thank you!  I can't wait for the next photo shoot. Thank you so much, again, we had a great time!"

........Teri Gretebeck, Westby, WI

"Well you made me cry with joy, they look so nice. Pretty!!"

.......Kim, Coon Valley, WI

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Karen A. Solverson, Valley Visions Photography, Just south of Westby, WI, norwegn@mwt.net , 608-634-6263