Studio J

Clients become friends.   . . . . friends you can ask for help.   Here’s some photos from my friend Aaron’s headshot session.   When my partner Denise had a job interview approaching with RIM, she wanted an inside scoop on how to prepare (she’s smart that way).    I called on Aaron, who has done his share of interviews, looking for the right people for his team at RIM.   . . . .  could Denise ask some questions?  . . . get some interview tips and advice?

He gladly offered tips and advice  . . . . and then some.   A few days after their 1st conversation, Aaron was on the phone again, this time running a mock phone interview for her.    Real help.  Practical advice.  Good information.   .  .  .  .  and a good chunk of his time, freely given, at the drop of a hat.
That didn’t lead to the RIM position.   . . . . but it prepared her well for that RIM interview  . . . .  which prepared her well for another interview . . . .  more on that below!

When Denise’s position as a hardware engineer (designing circuit boards for industrial automation networks) ended several months ago, we were worried.   Our friends, Julie and Bruce were there, the moment they heard about it.   Offering help and advice.   Access to a professional network.  Helping her focus on positive, practical, effective steps.   Instead of fear.    I saw that same level of thoughtful initiative, when I 1st opened my portrait studio and Julie said, “we want to be your first clients.”    Here’s my favourite from that 1st session as a pro:

There is something special about helping someone with these important parts of our lives.   Our livelihood,   our health,  our family.   I’m not naming everyone who has helped here.    ….. just saying,  cheers to you, my friends, your help and support means a great deal to me.

. . . . and where all this is leading . . . .   my engineer will be designing again – software and circuits – this time with locomotives and the train industry.  Congratulations Denise!!   It sounds like a great position and a really cool company with a great attitude.
Here she is without an engineer’s cap (where will I find one of those?):

Had great fun doing promo photos with Michael.   He’s just totally relaxed and being himself, which is genuine, funny and down to earth.   Two things really stand out to me about him.  First, his performing persona is not flashy;  it’s real.   Like you’re just having an inviting, personable conversation with him around the kitchen table.

.. and second, he has this collaborative, sharing, supporting others kind of attitude and philosophy.  He’s interested in the development and success of other musicians and artists.

A group of young friends were hanging out on the dock on Silver Lake and shared their space with us.  It was a beautiful night at sunset.   . . . and I was shooting portraits of Michael as he played a private concert for us on the lake.   What a great experience and memory.

Michael’s website:   michaelkellycavan.com

I had a fun afternoon session with Cathie and her headshots convey the same character I experienced in person:   lively, professional, friendly and fun.    A big thank you to Michael, who is a total natural at lighting key grip and stylist duties.   I really enjoyed hanging out with you two!