I was photographing Katherine for her symphony headshot.    She was completely open to the approach of  showing something of herself that is central to her work.    . . . . while not so traditional, I find this so much more compelling and interesting to see!  Being happy doing this;  enjoying it;  the sense of warmth and depth that is my strongest impression of her.

It takes extra time – and some connection – and a running  conversation, for you to feel easy being yourself.  It is totally worth it.

Out in the woods, in the snow.   …. shooting dust cover and promotional portraits with local Author, Erin Bow.  In 6 months, her novel, Plain Kate, will be released and on bookshelves.  I’m expecting to greatly enjoy it .  Erin’s imagination and creativity spill out in conversation too.  There’s a lively interest and amusement in her sense of humour.  Maybe you’ll see a book review here.

Colleen is friendly and easy to chat with.  I can tell she’s just being herself.

What is the opposite of being stiff? posing?  posturing?     ……  the opposite is being real; being yourself.  What happens when you show your character and personality in your professional headshots?

…. People see someone they can relate to.  That doesn’t take away from your expertise and professionalism.

Be a triple threat:

Be an expert – be great at what you do

Be reliable – do what you say

Be real – be your own fine, personable self.

I dug this 2008 session out of the archives this week when Rajivi asked for some prints.   Two things really grab my attention about these photos.  …… 2 years later …..   1st, my portrait style has changed and I rarely pose people anymore.   …. and 2nd, that I still love these – and I mark that down to how fun, easy-going and loving these 3 are.   I asked Rajivi and Sam what their secret was for having a 4 year old boy who was remarkable – friendly – considerate – sociable – interested – articulate and very secure  –

….. their answers stayed with me because I could see what they were doing in their everyday interactions.    1st was for him to know (all the time) that he is loved.   …. and next was treating him with a level of respect and interaction that most people only give to other adults.

…. and their slideshow video:

Actor headshot sessions can be focused on one particular look and mood, when the intended use is geared for a planned audition.    Usually,  sessions are aimed at producing one main headshot for most casting calls and auditions  … and then some supporting headshots, showing some variation.  These secondary headshots are perfect for your casting workbook, where casting directors, directors and agencies can have a 2nd, 3rd, and 4th look at you.

In both types of sessions, my favourites (and usually my actors’ favourites too) convey some of their own personality.  We’re often playing at multiple locations and real environments –> getting out of the photo studio, so an actor can get into character in places that add to the real feel of that personality.

There was no warm – up.   After we sat down and talked a few minutes, I picked up my camera – and  Summer was already relaxed and focused and interacting without a hint of self-consciousness.   I didn’t get to drop my jaw in admiration as I was busy catching up with her!  We had a definite vibe we were going for (accomplished!), so I don’t get to show you the range this girl can take on at the drop of a hat!

OK, just one to hint at what I’m talking about:

It was great fun working with you Summer!

I’m not sure why I doubt – but at every wedding, when I meet the bride in the morning, I am filled with reassurance and so pleased.   It’s not because everything is on time and Mirette looks fabulous and her dress is outstanding.

It’s her attitude.  … and Kwan’s attitude, when we touched base the night before and again this morning.   The plan to have, “All You Need Is Love” sung right after their joining was not lip service or a theme.  That really is their attitude.   I love your values, your attitude and your priorities, Kwan and Mirette.

The ceremony was at the Timothy Eaton church in Toronto:

Genuine happiness – they are now together:

There was a theme at the wedding and it was colours, with people mixing it up in a rainbow of tones, reflecting the 2 different worlds – Chinese and Egyptian – coming together.

Recognize this place from Kwan and Mirette’s engagement photos?    ….. this was great, getting together with friends in the wedding at a favourite hangout, between the ceremony and reception!

Jess and Derek and Faika were there.  Jess and Derek’s wedding in October was where we met Mirette and Kwan. – so 2 of our wedding couples together – and right after Heather and I  arrived , who came back to greet us – but a 3rd couple from last summer – Deb and Grace!    …… that was cool!

The dancing was a riot – so much fun and celebration!

The slideshow video of some wedding images:

All of the families were over for the holidays   ….. so …. extended family portraits!

I was thrilled when Deb told me they wanted these out in the snow!  These are so much more natural and real than a studio backdrop.   I crack a giant grin, knowing that a group of 19! people can be this easy going and up for something non-traditional.  That’s how they roll!

Thanks you guys. You made the whole day fun and interesting!

Jill is so lively and she has this incredible, infectious positive attitude  but she is not a winter person.

…..  so she immediately ran with the suggestion of some headshots in the snow.  Pushing beyond her comfort zone is something she has discovered pays off over and over again -  against one’s 1st snap judgement.

I guess they’re alright.  …. hahahaha!   I love them!

When the weather warms up, we’ll be making some dramatic fitness images before she leaves for a habitat home building stint in Costa Rica this May (yay Jill!).

Here’s a quick slideshow of her headshot session:

From tropics to snow.  ….   As families go, these guys were much like teenagers, joking and singing/playing around the campfire.   This is what I miss most from my old place in the country.

Thanks you guys for doing something cool that reminded me of so many good times!  …. and for later, when you lived through my most air-headed moments with patience and good humour!