I was thrilled when Emily and I discussed the idea of shooting their staff head shots.  I had done a fitness session with her and some of her staff last year.  Many of the images can be seen on their website.  Connecting the staff photos and site images with the same aesthetics, just made sense.  These would still fall into more of a classic head shot – meaning, focus on the face rather than whole body.  However, with a textured background, and pose variation, I still think you get a sense of the their personalities. Head shots have come a long way over the years.  Some companies may still require the basic shot, but many privately owned businesses are leaning towards a non-traditional style.  One that captures the personality of both the company as well as their staff.  Staff photos that are interesting, and intrigue the viewer are a must in today’s media saturated market.

Enjoy the pics, and stop into Estudio.  You’ll love the experience!

After Dark is a photography conference I attended just a few weeks ago in St. Louis.  A very good photo friend of mine filled me in on the details (he’s a 5x After Dark guy) after I expressed my desire to go to WPPI this year.  I had never gone to a conference – or really a workshop of any kind for that matter.  That always sounded so crazy to me – given that I’m self taught.  Don’t get me wrong, I had thought about it – but I guess never really actively sought out information to make it happen.  Why?  I honestly don’t know!  LOL  I know I  tend to procrastinate when I don’t know how to do something, maybe that was it?  I also know that I believe more and more that things happen when they are suppose to, when you are ready for for them.  Maybe it was a combination of the two.  As soon as I started to look into After Dark I knew I would be attending. Clearly, this would be the perfect hands on experience I was looking for!

I went as an assistant – which basically meant that I would be assisting mentors (the best in the business) some of the time, and then could attend other components that interested me.  Although there were a few experiences that I missed because I was assigned to assist during the same time – what I learned working so closely with the mentors was incredible!  I used lighting products that I’d never  heard of, and may not have had the chance to actual manipulate otherwise.

To keep this post from becoming it’s own book – LOL  I’m going to break here – showing you some images from one shoot where LED lights, and an ICE LIGHT were used.  Not at all how I normally light a shoot, and not at all the style I typically generate.  From composing, to lighting, and post-processing these images – I had to think out of the box.  It’s a bit hard for me to explain how stimulating this whole process has been for me. Creative sparks, energizing me, and at the same time bringing more self doubt than I’m used to! All good things, all creative energy – enjoy these different images – and of course feel free to let me know what you think

And to elaborate on her amazing clothing choices – I want to stress how incredible sheer fabrics and shirts are!  They are perfect to cover a bit, still allow the lines to be seen, and are just plain sexy and feminine.  Draping a shirt to just below a pantie line is also a great way to show some but not all.  Some women are very concerned about having a full, bare shot taken of their backside.   Again, strategic placement of clothing and posing you well is the key.   Although I have not been yet – she mentioned shopping at Miss Scarlet’s in Clifton Park – a suburb of Albany, NY, definitely a must check it out place!   Of course this last shot didn’t require much in terms of clothing.  Throw on a pair of awesome shoes, grab a white sheet and some skin.  It really can be that simple!

Besides using some of these sheer clothing options this year, I’ve also been playing with lighting a bit more. Many photographers are striving to create that film feel, despite using digital equipment.  Dramatic shadows also works very well when trying to create a mysterious feeling in an image.  When working with the light source, watching the shadows is just as important as watching the power of the light hitting the skin. This second client was so much fun.  Up for anything, and trusted me to guide her through her session.  I love it when it all comes together!

I find that using more dramatic lighting, even intensifying the contrast and shadows works.  After we ditch the shades and the vest – unbuttoning the shirt, or having a tie hang open…again its just sexy!  I’ve had to privilege to work with this guy a few times over the years.  So we have an established relationship, and he trusts my eye.  Given that men don’t tend to have the body image issues that women have – establishing that trust doesn’t seem quite as difficult.  However, I still believe that communication is key from the start.  I love the pre-session consults, brainstorming ideas, and mapping out a plan for the session.  Letting these fellas know… “I’ve got this”  seems to put them instantly at ease.  Leaving their only job, to rock it out for the camera.

Wrap it up with some time in the sheets, and you’ll have a collection of images with great variety!  The posing of men is different, which requires shifting my thought process.  I know many photographers hate when clients suggest “Pinterest”.  Believe me, I get it!  The best advice for you, is do not go into your photo session requesting image after image, expecting your photographer to replicate a shot you’ve seen.  Bottom line – it’s incredible restricting to the creative process.  That being said, I’m all for using it as inspiration. You must keep in mind that you are not that guy or woman in the shot. You are not in that location.  And, I am not that photographer.  You will only set yourself up for disappointment if you think you can come out of your session with THAT EXACT SHOT.  Instead, use photos you like as concepts.  Discuss the feel, or vibe you like about it.  And most importantly, allow your photographer to interpret your ideas, and create their vision for you.  The best shots, are often the ones that happen in an instant, organically! 

I was thrilled when asked to shoot Creo Restaurant in Albany, NY.  If you’re not familiar with it – be sure to check out their web page HERE and Like them on Facebook Here.

As soon as you walk in, you can’t help but notice the decor.  Modern and inviting – making you want to either pull up a seat at the bar or walk through to the dining area.

As you look at their menu – you’ll notice American cuisine items with Asian and Mediterranean influences.   The “Farm to Table” concept is not new to them, as they have operated that way since 2008.  In fact, they even have an on-premise garden to grow  herbs/spices as well as purchase their own livestock!  I first went down to meet partner Brian White, and to get a tour of the space.  Of course seeing the beautiful restaurant was fun, and it certainly helped me start to conceptualize ideas for the session.  I met a handful of their staff, and management who were all very friendly.   No surprise that they were beyond helpful the day of the shoot.

Over the course of a few hours I captured the decor, incredibly prepared dishes, and customers enjoying their Creo experience.  Brian gave me some ideas of what he’d like to see in the images and let me run with it.  That piece is key to getting creative corporate shots.  Any photographer, or artist for that matter, would tell you that suggestions work best.  It enables the creative process, and gives inspiration without inhibiting unique ideas.  I’m thrilled to know that they were happy with the images, and love seeing them using them already.  It really was a pleasure to work with Brian White, and the staff at Creo.  I will be making a trip there soon to enjoy their service, and some of these incredible dishes!  Be sure to put them on your list of places to try.  Is your mouth watering yet?

If you’ve been following me on facebook you’ve seen the buzz about my event for cancer Survivors.   Incredible. Powerful. Uplifting. Emotional. Just a few words that describe the   dynamics that took place last weekend.   What started as an idea between stylist Erica Sherman( Jean Paul Spa and Salon Albany, NY) and myself soon became a reality with 5 amazing women.

Our original idea started with breast cancer.   But we soon realized any woman having fought the cancer fight deserved to shine and be pampered. I contacted the owner of the Morgan State House,  a gorgeous Bed and Breakfast on State Street in Albany, NY,  and started talking dates.   That followed with phone calls and messages to area stylists. I was thrilled at the responses. There were so many that wanted to be involved, and even a few that rearrange their schedules to be there.  I was honored that the talented Erica Sherman, Destiny Slover (Lipstick Beauty Lounge), Ruth Dollery  (Studio Orlo Hair Design), and Kate Fox (Four Star Salon Service) would be joining me.

Facebook was the next piece.  I had already started hinting that an event to “give back”  was on the way.  Within hours of my announcement and request for cancer survivors,  my schedule was full.   As I told them, all they needed to do was grab a friend, or someone important to them – an outfit they loved, and show up at 10 am.  The rest would be handled by us!  Chuck Kuhtic – the owner of the Morgan State House – graciously donated the space.  I provided beverages and appetizers – and of course the talented stylists donated all the makeup, hair products and lashes we needed!

A few days before I received an email from Ben Pliss of Ben Pliss Media.  As we chatted about other topics, a light went off.  I filled him in on the upcoming event.  I asked him if he would be interested in donating video work to help capture the energy of the day.  Immediately he was on board.  Ben’s mom is a breast cancer survivor.

This is a day I will never forget.  I witnessed these incredible women sharing their stories, bonding with one another, and feeling beautiful.   I fought the tears at many moments, especially when they hugged me.  The hugs felt so powerful,  that I swear they touched my soul.   I could write forever – but instead I will let you see for yourself the beauty of that day.

Enjoy the video and the images … xxoo

CANCER SURVIVOR VIDEO — click!!!

One of these amazing companies is The Revolution. Recently they opened a second location in Latham, NY. They still have a location in Clifton Park, NY as well.   I  met Nancy, one of the owners last year when she hired me for her own head shot sessions.  She really opened my eyes to what Spinning is – and isn’t!  I’d taken a few spin classes before – years ago at a gym I went to.  Anyone who has ever done it, knows it’s an intense cardio workout.  However, Nancy informed me that not every spin class is like that.  They have a variety of classes that you can find HERE.  With 9 class styles to choose from, you’ll be sure to find one that is a good match for you.  Changes to your workouts, and challenging your body is a sure way to get results.  I have been in myself and took the Circuit class with Nancy.  I can honestly say … it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be!  Don’t get me wrong – it was tough, and I got a great workout.  You’re on and off the bike throughout the class which helps you mentally believe you can get through it!  She incorporated body bars, bands, mat and exercise ball work all within the 1 hour class.  The best part… the music!  Upbeat, fun songs that help you through.  It also doesn’t hurt that the music is loud enough so you can’t hear your heavy breathing!  And I must say, Nancy’s energy and enthusiasm are contagious.  She makes you smile, and want to do better.  Bottom line – this is a full body workout with the cardio built in (which is the part I really hate  LOL ).   So as you start your 2013 – give it a try!  They are offering a free class on February 10th at their Latham, NY location.  You can keep up with them on Facebook HERE – which is where the free class info was listed.

This coming Friday I will be heading into the Clifton Park, NY location.  This time it will not be for a class – but instead to photograph their amazing team of instructors.  As I’ve mentioned to many business owners – having unique head shots is a must in today’s world.  Imagine the possibilities with those bikes!  Super excited for this shoot.

Pop back to my blog soon – as shoots are being schedule for The Pilates Principle, and EStudio!

She brought a variety of clothing options – which we went through together and narrowed it down to the best looks.  This is always the way a Boudoir session begins.  We lay everything out, look at colors, and discuss the hair/makeup look that will compliment everything best.  When a client brings sports attire, I almost always encourage them to start with it.  It’s fun, light – and makes those first frames a little less stressful!

I then looked to see if she brought a teddy or a corset – showing more skin, but still keeping some coverage.  Cosette’s are probably my top item to recommend bringing to a session.  They just always look great – and women feel great in them!

Finally, we used her bra and underwear sets.   By this point she was comfortable, and having a great time!  Nerves have completely dissipated – and they shots come pretty easy!  This is also the time I consider seeing if client would like to try maybe a bare back shot – or even something a little edgier like the thong shot!  It just doesn’t get much hotter than that!

Any of the gorgeous women I worked with are eligible to enter a photo of their choice!  They inform their family/friends, and get people to “like” their image – easy as that!!!!

The contest ran for about a week – and the votes/likes just kept coming in!  This year, Danielle was our winner!

As her prize, she’ll be receiving a gorgeous wall piece, a float wrap to be specific, of her image!  These are one of my favorite wall pieces – ready to hang once it’s in your hands! Unique, modern… LOVE THEM!

This year I added another component to the contest – video clips!  A handful of contestants submitted a quick video clip talking about their boudoir experience with us.  As a very special thank you – each of them are receiving a custom photo album app for the their smart phone — with their gallery of boudoir images!  Thrilled that these ladies will be able to pop open their alubms and look through their gorgeous pictures anytime and anywhere they’d like!  Who wouldn’t love that?

I love these apps so much, that they are being added to the 2013 boudoir collections and options!  No doubt that these will be a huge hit – and a favorite item.  I, as well as my stylist Erica Sherman of Jean Paul, are ready to dive into 2013.  Bookings for Valentine’s Day sessions have already been scheduled – some availability is left if you were thinking of it!  Just a reminder, these sessions need to be shot by 1/31 to ensure images will be ready for gifting on Valentine’s Day!   Gifting it to him is sure to be a hit – and gifting her a session will certainly make her feel like a super model… So let’s chat and get you scheduled!!!   Come play with us…. YOU’LL LOVE IT!

We started the day at their long time friends’ home out by Lake Ontario in Rochester, New York.   These two are avid kayak girls – and they often launch right off of this property.  Many memories for them at this beach – making it part of their day just made sense.  We squeezed in a quick group huge before we got ready to head over to the venue for the ceremony and reception.

Jack’s Place – was located not far from the house.  As the excited couple hid away until it was time to start – guests began to arrive.  The music was cued, and it was time.  Finally time, for these two to be married.

As the Minister spoke, I believe her words touched everyone who was there.  There was something very powerful about seeing this couple standing together.  They had stood together for 27 years – through good times and bad, and until now were not able to be joined as a married couple  in New York.  You couldn’t help but feel the positive energy – to feel the support.  And if you took a second to look at the faces of those there – their smiles said it all.  I was not surprised at all, as a full energetic applause erupted once their were pronounced married!

They carried flowers that were their favorites – roses and orchids.  Another symbolic act of joining as one, as they placed their separate bouquets in the vase. The smiles and laughter was contagious.  Wonderful toasts wrapped up the ceremony, and kicked off the reception. Food, drinking, dancing and of course cake all followed.  Only to be interrupted by the signing of the Marriage License.  An interruption that they gladly welcomed!

I can not express how honored I was to be their photographer – and to witness something so meaningful.  I wish them many many happy married years!