I’m Patrick Bertolino, a Houston photographer with over 25 years of experience, specializing in real estate, commercial, and aerial photography. I’m a native Houstonian, a veteran, an award-winning photographer, and have been recognized in the Professional Photographers of America International Photographic Competition, with work featured on the cover of PPA publications. I hold the Master of Photography (M.Photog.) and Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) designations, along with FAA Part 107 certification for commercial drone work.
I specialize in architectural photography in all its forms, from luxury homes and apartment communities to commercial properties, industrial sites, and aerial photography. As an FAA Part 107 certified drone pilot, I’m able to safely and legally capture aerial perspectives that add context and scale to a project.
I think of light as a language. Every space speaks differently, and my job is to read it, shape it, and capture it in a way that feels natural without overdoing it. If it looks forced, it’s gone too far. The goal is simple. It needs to look and feel real.
If you have a project in mind, feel free to get in touch or explore my real estate, commercial, and aerial galleries to see more of my work
As a Houston photographer, I provide photography services across residential, commercial, and aerial projects. Each type of work has its own challenges, and I approach each one with the same goal. Clean composition, natural light, and images that hold up over time.
Real Estate Photography
From luxury homes to apartment communities, I create listing photos that are clean, accurate, and ready for the market. You can view more in the Houston real estate photography services.
Commercial Photography
I work with businesses, property managers, and developers to photograph office spaces, retail, industrial sites, and large-scale properties. See more in my Houston commercial photography services.
Aerial Photography
Drone photography provides context and scale that ground-level images can’t. I offer aerial coverage for both real estate and commercial projects. View examples in the Houston aerial photography services.
It’s more than just the photos.
When people think about photography, they usually focus on the final images. Lighting, composition, and editing all matter, but there’s an entire experience that comes with hiring a photographer. That’s where I set myself apart. My goal is to make the process smooth, professional, and easy from start to finish.
Punctuality and preparation
I take being on time seriously. I know Houston’s traffic patterns well and rely on Google Maps to arrive exactly when I say I will. If I’m ever late, there’s a very good reason. Before every shoot, I review the details so I know what I’m walking into and have the right equipment ready. Being prepared allows me to focus on the work instead of reacting to problems.
Adaptability on site
Every space is different, and every client is different. I don’t follow a script. I adapt to the situation. If someone offers a walkthrough, I take it. It helps me understand the space and often reveals details that improve the final images. Things don’t always go perfectly, and that’s fine. Whether a space isn’t ready or something unexpected comes up, I stay calm and work around it.
Professional, easy interaction
I keep things straightforward and comfortable. I’m happy to answer questions, show images if someone is curious, and keep the process moving without making it feel rushed. Small things matter. Even something as simple as greeting a homeowner’s dog or keeping the tone light can make the experience better for everyone involved.
Delivery and follow-through
My delivery process is simple and clear. You get one email with everything you need, including download links and instructions. I keep organized client folders so past work is easy to access. If something needs to be adjusted, I handle it quickly and without friction. The goal is to make everything after the shoot just as smooth as the shoot itself.
You can read more about my approach here: how to make the best photographic experience.
lagniappe
/ˈlanˌyap, ˈlanˌyäp/ noun Something given as a bonus or extra gift.
When you work with me, you’re working directly with me. I’m the guy who shows up, shoots the project, and delivers the images. In a world full of photo companies and rotating photographers, I keep it simple. One person, one consistent approach, every time.
I’ve always thought of myself as a blue-collar photographer. I show up prepared, I know what I’m walking into, and I get the job done without overcomplicating it. I’m consistent with how I work, how I show up, and what I deliver. That consistency is what clients come back for.
I’m not trying to make every space dramatic or over-produced. The goal is to create images that feel natural and true to the subject. Whether it’s a home, a commercial property, or an industrial site, the work has to hold up and make sense for the client using it.
The process matters just as much as the photos. I stay calm, adapt to what’s happening on site, and keep things moving. If something changes or doesn’t go as planned, I work around it. Clients don’t need more stress. They need someone who can handle it.
At the end of the day, it’s not just about delivering images. It’s about delivering a smooth, professional experience from start to finish. That’s the lagniappe. The part people remember.
Every project is a little different, and pricing depends on the type of property, the scope of the shoot, and how the images will be used. I keep things straightforward and will always put together a clear estimate based on what you need.
For residential projects, you can view full details and place an order directly through my real estate pricing and order page. That covers most standard shoots and add-ons.
For commercial photography, pricing is based on the complexity of the project, usage, and overall scope. If you have something specific in mind, the best approach is to reach out so we can dial it in properly.
Based in Houston, I regularly photograph properties throughout Houston, Galveston, Sugar Land, Katy, and The Woodlands, and I never charge extra for travel within the greater Houston area.