“Whether we’re chasing golden hours in the woods or capturing the quiet magic between loved ones, my goal is always the same: to reflect the beauty that’s already there.”
Cindy Villarreal
the face behind CVV Photos
About Me.
My love for photography started young, over time it grew into something deeper — a way of seeing the world. From the texture of tree bark to the glimmer in someone’s eye, I’m drawn to the little details that tell big stories.
I’ve been taking photos for as long as I can remember, from disposable cameras to classroom darkrooms. A few photography classes in college taught me to really see. Understanding light, composition, and balance opened my eyes — it showed me a new way to look at the world, at nature, and at people. And an unspoken way to express it all. Once I started traveling, my camera became an extension of me.
Outside of photography, you can find me barefoot in the sand, planning spontaneous road trips with my son, or catching the sunrise in a new country—camera in hand!
My Style
Candid. Natural. Story-driven.
I believe the most powerful photos are the ones that feel like you — unposed, relaxed, and real.
I specialize in lifestyle portraits, candid connections, and natural settings — the kind of images that feel like memories, not just photos. Whether we're chasing golden hours in the woods or capturing the quiet magic between loved ones, my goal is always the same: to reflect the beauty that’s already there.
And while I enjoy shooting people, I’m also endlessly inspired by nature — details in plants, light through the trees, a quiet trail just before sunset.
My Gear of Choice
I’ve been loyal to Canon since high school — from my first point-and-shoot to my current workhorse, the Canon R6 Mark II. At this point, I might as well have Canon red running through my veins. (Nikon folks, no hard feelings — we all make choices. Some just better than others.)
Right now, I’m in love with my RF 70-200mm f2.8 — buttery smooth, crazy sharp, and somehow always right for the moment. It’s my go-to for capturing portraits that feel alive and unfiltered… and just as handy when I’m trying to sneak up on baby howler monkeys swinging through the rainforest treetops.
I also keep a couple of macro lenses close — there’s something magical about getting lost in the details. The soft curve of a petal, the texture in tree bark, the glint in someone’s eye — all the small things that most people miss but that make an image unforgettable.
And while some people save for a down payment on a house, I’m out here daydreaming about the Canon RF 600mm f/4L — the wildlife lens of my dreams, with a price tag that could cover a small wedding. But hey, priorities.
Let's Work Together
I shoot throughout Maryland, D.C., and Virginia — and I’m always open to traveling across state lines for the right story. If you're looking for someone to capture your moments with intention and heart, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s create something beautiful.
“Understanding light, composition, and balance opened my eyes — it showed me a new way to look at the world, at nature, and at people. And an unspoken way to express it all.”
