ABOUT ME
I create powerful imagery based on
human connection and authentic storytelling
Learn about me
How Photography Helps Me Tell Your Story
I used to wear a lot of masks.
Before I ever stepped behind the camera full-time, I was neck-deep in corporate life: mergers, acquisitions, boardrooms full of people pretending not to feel anything. I got good at blending in. Performing. Saying the right thing.
But that’s not where my heart was.
What I really cared about, and what I’ve always cared about, was connection. Real, messy, human connection.
Photography gave me a way out. A way in. A way to stop performing and start paying attention. Now I use that to help other people drop the act, too.
Matt’s ability to connect with his clients is undeniable. His vision is transcendent.
Matt helped me see myself for who I REALLY am, which is priceless.
Photography is truly his purpose here on earth.
Matt helped me see myself for who I REALLY am, which is priceless.
Photography is truly his purpose here on earth.
Nikki Hunt
Makeup Artist & Performer
I know what it's like to be uncomfortable in front of the camera
Life Is Way Too Short to Have Uninteresting Portraits
Most people have never had a portrait that feels like them.
They’ve had snapshots, headshots, maybe even a few glamour shots. But something deeper? Something that reflects who they are, not who they’re performing to be?
That’s rare. That’s what I chase.
I believe in showing up honestly. I believe the process should feel safe. I believe that when you’re seen with empathy, the whole story changes.
And let’s be real, there’s always room for a good laugh. I’m all about keeping things light and showing you how photography can reveal parts of yourself you didn’t even know were there.
Curious to see if I’m the right photographer for you? Give me a call, and let’s chat about how we can capture something amazing together.
More about me
Why I Do What I Do, For You
At Stonetree Creative, I work with entrepreneurs, artists, executives, and everyday humans who are tired of surface-level imagery. We slow things down. We breathe. We talk. Then we create portraits that feel powerful, soulful, and real.
Whether it’s headshots for your next big pitch, personal branding to match your evolving business, or a fine art portrait for legacy’s sake, I’ve built a process that’s easy, intuitive, and grounded in trust.
Everything I do, from lighting to conversation to delivery, is designed to reflect the best version of your truth, not just your looks. There’s no judgment here. Just curiosity, expertise, and a genuine respect for what makes you, you.
I’ve spent over 25 years in corporate boardrooms and behind the camera.
What I’ve learned? Every person has a story that deserves better than stock photos and forced smiles.
If you’re ready for that kind of portrait, I’m ready to show you what I see.
MORE ABOUT ME
Awards and Appearances
Awards
- 2021: Accredited Master Photographer – The Portrait Masters
- 2021: Gold Award for Excellence – Craft Videography and Cinematography – #SHERO Project – Communicator Awards
- 2021: Gold Award for Excellence – Craft Editing – #SHERO Project – Communicator Awards
- 2021: Gold Telly Award (and 3 Silver, 1 Bronze) – #SHERO Project – Online General Information
- 2019: Maine Professional Photographers Association: Commercial Image of the Year
Appearances
- Canvas Rebel Magazine – Daily Inspiration:Meet Matt Stagliano – October 7, 2024
- Rangefinder Magazine – Podcasting Builds Empires – Sept 4, 2024
- Bold Journey Magazine – Meet Matt Stagliano – June 18, 2024
- The Studio Takeover Podcast with Cat Ford-Coates – Dec 5, 2023
- Rangefinder Magazine – The Portrait Masters Conference: Looking Back and Ahead – Nov 21, 2023
- The Self Value Podcast – Episode #3 – Healing From Childhood Messages: Matt Stagliano’s Journey from Pain to Self-Value – Oct 2, 2023
- Rangefinder Magazine –Diary of a WPPI Newbie: Day 2, The Evening Buzz – March 6, 2023
- Rangefinder Magazine – The Portrait Masters Conference Recap: Creating Connections – Oct 5, 2022
- The Portrait System Podcast – Clubhouse Edition – Q&A: Reframe Your Mindset with Matt Stagliano – March 24, 2022
- Rangefinder Magazine – Diary of a WPPI Newbie: Day 3, Show Floor to Shootout – March 7, 2023
- Rangefinder Magazine – The Portrait Masters Conference: Main Stage Presenters & More – Aug 15, 2022
- The Portrait System Podcast LIVE from WPPI 2022 – a short segment (starting at 17:45) talking about my “superpower in business”
- The Artists Forge– “The Morning Walk with the Artists Forge” – Moderator and Panelist – Daily
- The Portrait System Podcast – Episode 64Â – “Elevating Clients’ Stories Through Portraits” – March 22, 2021
- The Portrait System Podcast: Clubhouse Edition – “The Power of Healthful Balance” – July 1, 2021
- The Portrait System:Â Photography Studio Tour
- The Portrait System Podcast: “Q&A Mental Blocks and Boundaries” – Aug 5, 2021
- The Portrait System Podcast: “Bronze to Silver: Level Up Your Awards Submission” – Jan 21, 2021
- SKILLSET LIVE – Episode 86 – “Going Dark 101 – Crypto Currency and The Dark Web” – Sept 17, 2018
- Staff writer for SKILLSET Magazine since 2016
Here's my motto
What You Don't Change, You Choose
That’s the motto I live by, and it helps me get out of bed and make the most of every single day. We’re not here all that long, so how will you make your mark?
Let’s have that conversation so I can hear all about your plans to change the world.