OUR STORY
Block Portrait Studios is a full service portrait studio specializing in custom-designed portrait art.
Life moves quickly, but some moments are too meaningful to let slip by. We don’t just take portraits — we preserve legacy. Whether it’s celebrating your family as it grows, honoring your graduating senior, capturing generations in one frame, or telling your brand’s story with intention — each session is a carefully crafted experience. These portraits become more than images; they’re emotional touchstones that elevate your space and speak to who you are.
When children see themselves proudly displayed at home, it fosters confidence and belonging. A single image can turn an empty wall into a daily reminder of love, connection, and identity. Our custom artwork is designed not only to suit your style — but to anchor your story in your home.
From the very first conversation to professional installation, every step is personal, polished, and stress-free. We guide you through it all — styling, colors, artwork placement — ensuring the finished pieces are as meaningful as they are beautiful.
This isn’t just photography. This is your story — thoughtfully designed and artfully told.
OUR STUDIO
Since 2015, Block Portrait Studios has been proud to call the West Side of Saint Paul home. Our studio was intentionally created to be more than just a place to take photos — it’s a space where personal stories are transformed into meaningful, lasting art.
The mural on our south wall, designed and painted by local artist Suzanne of Studio Moss, is a visual celebration of the creativity and character of this neighborhood. It reflects the same spirit we bring to every portrait we create — bold, personal, and deeply rooted.
We’re honored to serve the families, professionals, and artists who make West St. Paul so vibrant. Whether you’re looking to preserve a milestone, celebrate your loved ones, or elevate your brand through intentional imagery, we’re here to help turn your vision into art you’re proud to display.
meet our team
Jeannine
OWNER + PORTRAIT ARTIST
Jeannine is the owner and a portrait artist at Block Portrait Studios. She strives to create a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment for clients and staff! She is client-minded and values creating a memorable experience from start to finish. Jeannine brings her full personality of puns, smiles, and light to any project she takes on.
Jeannine uses her skills behind the camera to not just bring joy to her clients but also as a form of advocacy. Through her portrait project, Thank You For Telling Me That, she brings awareness to CSA and the resources available to contact.
Since 2007, Jeannine has been documenting fun couples’ wedding days as the main photographer of Jeannine Marie Photography. In 2015, Jeannine moved from her home office to the current space on Saint Paul’s Westside. After 2020 and a global pandemic, she rebranded as a full-service portrait studio, creating custom artwork for families to enjoy in their homes. She loves living in the neighborhood and spending time with her husband and their eight-year-old. They spend much of their time at local restaurants, playing baseball or softball, riding bikes, and visiting family up north.
An organization that Jeannine supports is Corner House
My strength comes with my vulnerability.
Emmerlee
Underwater Photographer
Emmerlee is our resident underwater photographer. She creates surreal portraits of her subjects using the ethereal atmosphere of being submerged.
When she’s not scuba diving, Emmerlee spends her days knitting and loving life. She could spend hours in a yarn shop looking at different spools and on the search for her next project.
An organization that Emmerlee supports is Make-A-Wish.
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.
Adriana
STUDIO MAKE-UP ARTIST
Adriana also works as a makeup artist. Grown out of self-love and self-care, she creates unique looks for each client! Her favorite part is when the bride sees herself for the first time.
When she is not creating unique looks or work for us, she takes her dog to the park, spends time with her nieces and nephews, or rests.
An organization Adriana supports is The Jeremiah Program.
I have the strength to endure the storm.