Sometimes when photographing a particular look, it's good to focus on the details. In this case the curve of the models back with the necklace backlit from the window sets the necklace off as the focus and "sells" the romance of jewelry. If the item of focus is jewelry, then draw attention to it, whether if it's by focusing on the jewelry alone, by spotlighting the jewelry with light, or by having the model interact with the jewelry to draw focus to that piece. 

Shannon was open to the ideas I presented to her prior to our shoot. I suggested a few looks and she brought clothing that would fit those looks. Additionally, I made a floral headpiece and brought a corset, pettiskirt, and jewelry. As you can see, my derby had came into play again (I'm having so much fun with that thing!). Shannon was very patient and sweet while we assembled each look. 

Shannon was great at bringing the mood to the image. I wanted to make sure to feature her beautiful, long red hair. However, she has gorgeous blue eyes, too. So, even though for some of the images I wanted her to look away from the camera to help create the mood, I also would snap another image with her looking at the camera. It changes the entire mood, but her eyes are just too mesmerizing to ignore.

On this shoot, I used my grandmother's mink coat that I inherited when she passed away. I also used a beautiful black dress with a gold weave overlay that I've had for years, so I guess it's vintage. Elizabeta's coloring and looks fit both items perfectly. Elizabeta was gracious enough make this a lingerie shoot with the mink to give the images a high-fashion and commercial look. Natalie Nahass Henry created a great dramatic makeup look to accentuate Elizabeta's beautiful face. 

This theme is a bit different from my others. Basically, I took a frilly, purple skirt and dressed it up as several different looks.

p.s. I love that dheap, little bowler hat that I picked up marked down. This is the second shoot in which I've used it and it doesn't disappoint.

Client: Anna Albus
MUAH: Kelly Louise

Devin wanted to create some images that looked like cologne advertisements. Because those images usually show shirtless men with water beaded on them as if they are just out of the pool or shower, we saved those for last. First we started with more catalogue/commercial style looks, worked up to a muscle shirt, then added oil and water to bead the water on Devin's skin.

Natalie wanted to add men to her makeup portfolio. She is a great makeup artist. Showing what a professional she is, she studied Devin's face as soon as she met him. She knew exactly what she wanted to do to bring out his eyes and cheekbones. 

This was Devin's first time modeling and he did a great job. He knew what style images he wanted and he had a pretty good direction for poses very well. 

You want to look your best in your portraits. My job is to help you with that through posing, lighting, and correct image exposure. However, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the day and make it fun for you and everyone involved.

1. If you are going to expose any skin (and I'm not talking nude photos, this goes for exposed arms, legs, etc.), about two hours before your photo shoot, remove any clothing or accessories with elastic. Such items as bras, pants with elastic waistbands, elastic wristbands and bracelets, even socks, leave marks on your skin that will show up in your pictures.
2. Discuss with me ahead of time the look and style of the portraits you desire. Do you plan to be clothed the entire time? Do you love the intimate look of skin on skin (think mom with baby, dad with baby, maternity bellies, etc.)? Will someone else be in the photos with you?
3. If someone else will join you in the pictures, be sure to select clothing and accessories for them that do not distract from the main subject (your faces, maternity belly, newborn, etc.). Bright-colored clothing and shiny accessories (watches, belt buckles, etc.) attract light and lead the eye away from the main focus.
4. Wear medium to dark solid colored clothing. Avoid prints and bright colors. Think about the type of portrait you are taking. If it is formal, dress accordingly. If it is a casual, outdoor shot, wear a good pair of jeans and a solid comfortable top. If this is a family portrait or group shot, wear complimentary or coordinating clothing. It is best if everyone matches.
5. If this is a maternity shoot, you may want to bring a few of your baby's things to hold in your photos. Maybe you have already purchased an adorable pair of shoes, someone may have given you something at your shower that means a lot to you, or maybe there is a family heirloom that you would love to memorialize in your pictures.
6. Avoid rubbing lotions on exposed body parts. You don't want the light to bounce off the shiny surface. Do, however, consider moisturizing your elbows and feet.
7. Your hands will likely be in the pictures, so consider a manicure, or at the very least, be sure your nails are trimmed. This rule also applies for toes.
8. Bring powder and lipstick or tinted Chap Stick for touchups during the shoot. Bring your brush or comb and several changes of clothes.
9. Last, allow at least two hours for your photo shoot, and try not to schedule anything for immediately afterwards. Most maternity shoots and weddings, cannot be re-shot, so don't rush yourself! Enjoy yourself!

Kai wanted to boost her portfolio with an old world Hollywood style. After a few emails back and forth, we decided to just raid her incredible closet. She has great vintage clothing. We met in the Pontiac studio and Rhonda Janelle put together a great vintage makeup. Keeping in mind that I'd be shooting a lot of black and white, Rhonda selected lip color and makeup that would accentuate the look. This was my second time working with Rhonda and once again, she came with a great work ethic and wonderful makeup skills. 

I have always wanted to shoot an "All That Jazz" or "Cabaret" inspired look. I found an old bowler hat that was perfect for the look. Kai came through with fabulous jewelry and corset to complete the look. I wanted to rim light Kai in the hat, without lighting her face, giving the impression of the dancer as she first appears and walks out on stage. We then worked up to lighting her face, producing a fabulous high-fashion look.

Kai has great expressions and with little guidance, was able to knock out the poses I requested. She transitioned smoothly into different poses from the suggested starting pose. All-in-all a true professional with a great flair for styling!

Once again, I was fortunate to have a great team!