Elevate Your Creative Portfolio with Custom Headshots: A Session with Kenya
At our studio, we specialize in capturing the essence of artists, whether you’re a model, actor, musician, or any other creative professional. We had the pleasure of working with Kenya, a stunning and vibrant model, to update her comp card. The session was an inspiring example of how we collaborate with artists to create headshots that truly reflect their unique talents and personalities.
Styling for Success: Simplicity Shines
Kenya brought an array of options for her shoot, including a simple white top paired with blue jeans and some neutral-colored workout sets. We always advise our clients to bring basics and colors that complement their features, and Kenya’s choices were perfect. The simple styling allowed her natural beauty and personality to shine through, making her photos authentic and captivating. Kenya is going for commercial modeling jobs, which calls for casual everyday clothes for her comp card. If she was going for runway modeling jobs, I would have suggested all black. Knowing the nuances of the industry and what my client’s goals are allow me to give personalized advice to prepare for shoots like this.
Makeup for a Comp Card: Keeping it Natural
For most of the photos, we kept Kenya’s makeup minimal to none, aligning with the advice from modeling scouts who prefer minimal makeup to see the model’s true look. However, we also took a few “glamor shots” with more makeup to showcase her potential for beauty campaigns. This balanced approach provided Kenya with a versatile portfolio that could appeal to a wide range of opportunities in the modeling world.
Expert Retouching for Authentic Photos
As a master retoucher, I focus on enhancing natural beauty without altering the essence of the individual. For Kenya, this meant minimal retouching, like removing out-of-place hairs and small blemishes. Authenticity is crucial in our retouching process, and we always discuss specific needs with each client. Whether it’s natural-looking teeth whitening, subtle wrinkle smoothing, or even creating composites, we customize our approach to meet each person’s unique requirements. Our goal is to ensure that the final images reflect the true self while looking polished and professional.
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Intersectionality in Photography & Retouching
One often overlooked aspect of photography is the proper lighting and retouching of diverse skin tones. Kenya, with her beautiful dark skin, served as a prime example of how important it is to understand and execute this skill. People with highly melanated skin generally reflect light differently in photos, and knowing how to gently retouch this is vital. I take great care to ensure that all skin tones are lit and retouched to perfection, honoring each client’s natural beauty. We also offer gender-affirming retouching to all LGBTQ+ clients, this can range from removing a five-o’clock shadow to smoothing the look of binders under people’s shirts. I have seen how this practice empowers people, how their faces light up when they see who they truly are reflected in photos for the first time.
From NYC Art World to Minneapolis Mom
My background deeply informs my approach to photography, especially creative headshots. While completing my Master’s, I worked in the dynamic NYC art world, working alongside art icons like Jeff Koons and elite photographers like Vincent Dixon. My experience spans major advertising agencies such as Fallon and BBDO, and I’ve managed operations for a roster of photographers while archiving for various New York artists. This rich history in the art and advertising worlds has equipped me with a keen eye for what agencies and professionals are looking for in a portfolio.
Supporting Fellow Artists: Long-Term Relationships & Professional Guidance
As someone who has cast many models myself, I understand the industry’s demands and nuances. I highly value my network and am passionate about watching my fellow artists succeed. As a professor and certified chatterbox, I love giving advice and sharing my extensive knowledge of the industry. This is a unique bonus of booking a session with me—I am always happy to network free of charge. My favorite clients are those with whom I have lasting relationships, and I take pride in uplifting them as fellow entrepreneurs and dream-pursuers.
Rent the solarium: my NE Minneapolis Arts District Studio
We are so excited to offer rental opportunities for our studio, The Solarium, located in the NE Minneapolis Arts District! The space features massive windows, a kitchen, a bed, various chair options, refreshments, a blackout theater curtain, and seamless backdrops. We prefer to sublet to queer and femme-identified individuals. The rate is $450 for 20 hours a month or $90 per hour for day rentals. It’s the perfect space for your next creative project.
It’s Time to Book Your Session!
Whether you’re updating your modeling portfolio, need branding photos for your website, or looking for a new album cover, we are here to help. Our studio offers a welcoming and supportive environment where your unique story can be told through stunning imagery.
Contact us today to book your session and take the first step toward creating lasting memories and a standout portfolio. Let’s work together to make your vision a reality.