Business Details
47 Years
experience
Timeless Heirloom Portraits & Santa Art in Lexington, KY
Greer Photography has been creating timeless works of art since 1979, blending traditional techniques with modern technology to honor families through heirloom portraits. Our legacy began with Winnie Greer's passion for photography, evolving into a three-generation family business that combines masterful artistry with cutting-edge tools. We specialize in archival oil paintings, Santa portraits, and storybooks that capture life's most cherished moments. Our Lexington, Kentucky studio merges 1920s charm with smart technology for a seamless creative experience. Led by Leeann Greer, a Brooks Institute graduate and Certified Professional Photographer, our team maintains rigorous standards through proprietary processes and museum-quality materials.With over four decades of experience, we've perfected a multi-stage method that preserves true likenesses using archival oils and canvas. Our custom California-crafted frames and hand-lettered nameplates ensure each piece becomes a generational heirloom. We serve clients nationwide while maintaining personal service through our family-run operations. Our commitment to excellence has earned recognition from clients like Dr. Eva Tackett, who call us 'exceptionally professional' and 'extremely talented.'
Services
Oil Painting Portraits
Santa Portrait Sessions
Heirloom Storybooks
Custom Framing
Photography Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We've perfected portrait artistry across three generations since 1979
- Our proprietary oil painting process combines traditional techniques with modern technology
- Each piece uses archival materials rated to last over 100 years
- Family-owned operation maintains personal service and artistic control
- Custom California-crafted frames with hand-applied gold leaf finishes
What people say
Exceptionally professional
Master at your craft
Most prized possessions
Genuinely friendly
Amazing artist
Services
Oil Painting Portraits
Our archival oil paintings combine traditional techniques with modern technology to create timeless family heirlooms. Each piece uses proprietary oils and museum-quality canvas, with a multi-stage process that preserves true likenesses. The 6-8 month creation period includes hand-applied protective finishes and UV-resistant lacquer for lasting beauty.
Santa Portrait Sessions
Immersive Santa experiences capture children's wonder through nostalgic photography and storybook creation. Sessions include personalized interactions with Santa, milk and cookies, and a special gift. The 15-minute session produces archival wall art and custom storybooks with poetry and illustrations that become generational keepsakes.
Heirloom Storybooks
Custom storybooks combine professional photography with poetic narratives to document family traditions. Each book features hand-painted illustrations and personalized text that transforms portrait sessions into lasting literary heirlooms. Designed for intergenerational sharing, these books use archival materials to ensure century-long preservation of family memories.
Custom Framing
Handcrafted frames from California artisans complement each artwork with historically accurate designs. Gold leaf finishes and proprietary patina treatments create museum-quality presentation. Each frame uses solid wood construction with seamless corners, avoiding industry-standard 'chop and join' methods for superior durability and aesthetic appeal.
Photography Workshops
Guided photography sessions focus on capturing authentic expressions through curated environments and professional lighting. Available for family portraits, individual studies, and special events, these sessions utilize studio technology for real-time image review. The process includes wardrobe guidance and styling assistance for optimal portrait outcomes.
People
Winnie Greer
Founder & Master Photographer
Established the studio in 1979, pioneering the Old World oil painting process. Holds multiple photography awards and maintains creative oversight of all artistic operations while mentoring the next generation of family photographers.
Leeann Greer
Lead Artist & Photographer
BA in Photography from Brooks Institute, Master Photographer with 25+ years of studio experience. Personally executes all oil painting techniques and oversees quality control for every commissioned artwork produced by the studio.
Kelly Greer Culp
Certified Professional Photographer
Studio director with dual expertise in portrait photography and business operations. Maintains CIPP certification while managing day-to-day studio functions and client relations for both Kentucky and Virgin Islands locations.
Questions
What should we wear for Santa portrait sessions?
Children wear provided pajamas (boys) or white nightgowns (girls). No colors except Santa's red accents. Hair should be styled away from face with minimal accessories.
How long does the oil painting process take?
Our archival oil paintings require 6-8 months for completion, including proper drying time between each of the multiple protective layers and finishing coats.
Can we purchase digital versions of our portraits?
Digital files are included with physical artwork purchases, available for printing up to the purchased size. Files delivered via Dropbox download without physical media.
What's included in the Santa experience?
15-minute session with Santa featuring milk and cookies, story reading, gift exchange, and iconic photo scenes. Includes immediate artwork viewing and ordering session with hot chocolate available.
Do you offer payment plans?
Flexible payment options available for all collections and artwork. Contact our studio for specific financing arrangements tailored to your budget requirements.
