For Paul Lorei, a family portrait is more than just a picture on a mantel — it's in his blood. Paul's father, brother and uncle have all made household names for themselves in Erie and beyond.

Paul worked alongside several talented photographers in the ad business before stepping behind the camera himself. He took his love of painting, his zeal to learn, his drive to create, and learned the iconic art from his father. From the beginning, his is eye was sharp, clever, creative.

Setting up a tiny office in the back of his house, he started creating well-composed, artistic portraits of families, children and couples. Combined with his hard work and talent, Paul's genuinely charming personality lead him to almost immediate success. Within four years, he created a name for himself while serving the tri-state area. He was awarded the esteemed title of Certified Professional Photographer through the Professional Photographers of America.

Today, Lorei Portraits is closing in on a quarter-century of creating some of the most stunning and beautiful portrait photography anywhere. His painterly niche is often imitated and always admired. His business card reads: Every face is beautiful.

With over twenty-seven years of experience, Lorei says, “the best part of photography is when we create a portrait that the client loves so much they are moved to tears. That's when I say to myself: ‘this is my passion; there is nothing else I would rather be doing.'”