PortraitMasters and our processing lab, Portrait Express, have deep Oregon roots. The lab was founded in 1982 in Silverton Oregon.
Three generations of the Sherwood family have built these Oregon companies. Tom Sherwood started it all back in the 1980's. His vision and leadership built a solid foundation. Dennis Sherwood and his wife Eileen continued that success. Their son also played a role in the business. Today the companies are owned by long term employee Chris Fournier, and his wife Robin.
Someone once said, "When people go to work, they shouldn't have to leave their hearts at home." Our employees are certainly a key to our success and our many happy customers. We are proud of our employees and the years they have devoted to our companies. Many have worked here since the beginning and continue to stick around long past retirement time due to it being extended family and not feeling like work. Their dedication and loyalty is deeply appreciated.
After all these years, we are still based in Silverton, Oregon. All our employees live in Oregon except one who moved to Washington, but the loyalty is reciprocated and we made it work to keep him on board. We only photograph students and staff within Oregon. Feel free to contact us as we would love to tell you more of the story.
Chris
President
After 15 years working at the lab and facing the company closing, he chose to purchase the lab and PortraitMasters. This was an incredibly difficult decision especially with 6 children.
Currently he is focused on modernizing and revitalizing both companies. While not working, he is either thinking of work, spending time with family, backpacking in the mountains, riding a Harley, or trying to make fencing goat proof.
Scott
Engineering
Scott's been on the PortraitMasters and Portrait Express management team for over 30 years. He installs and maintains lab processing equipment and lab facilities, works on product designs, production output and many other aspects of the lab.
In his spare time he's always outdoors. He loves to travel and see new places and do new things, anything from hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, home landscaping, and road trips in the Corvette. While indoors he and his wife enjoy gourmet cooking.
Jesse
Director of Photography
Jesse has been photographing for over 10 years, honing his skills and mastering the craft. His journey in photography has been fueled by a dual love for the technical understanding of the medium and the artistic side of capturing images. He ensures the photography team is coordinated in capturing the perfect light to create exceptional portraits.
His pastimes include indulging in his passion for Medieval history, capturing moments through black and white photography, and cherishing the company of his beloved pets, dear friends, and loving family.
Peter
Photography Consultant
Peter's fifty plus years of school and sports photography experience gives PortraitMasters the ability to meet almost any customer request. His great depth of knowledge helps keep our technical standards finely tuned.
Volunteering is an important part of his personal life. Peter is active in the American Red Cross and trains with Silverton's Community Emergency Response Team.