Getting Reconnected

Hello!  Well, it's been a while since I post in my blog. A lot has happened in my life since my last post and there are many drafts in my folder of  thoughts and epiphanies I added in to share later.  I'll share them in the next few months, mostly because emotions felt at the time are no longer there so I need to rewrite some of them.

This is me now. So, I feel like I've been hibernating, like so many who stayed home during the Pandemic. Let's not forget the snowpocalypse earlier this year.  I'll call up some images and videos to share of some of this time period.  To say it's been CRAZY is an understatement. 

I think the world is slowly coming out and life is becoming more normal.  For me, it seems I let everything go, work, fitness, business plans, relationships, event planning....  I simply existed.  But you know what, life goes on, whether you are living it or not. So, why not choose the latter?  Time is precious and once gone, we can't get it back.  Let's make it a point to truly LIVE!  

Well, before all the bad stuff happened in what seems like a very long time, I used to "burn the candle at both ends" as one of my dearly departed friends once noticed.  It looks like I'm back.... as it is now 2:43 a.m. and my mind is racing with all the ideas and things I need to do.  My grandbabies, who are now 4 and 7 will be in town for a little while, so I'm too excited to sleep.  I treasure each moment I can get with them as they are growing up quick and changing every time I see them.

As we get into the second half of 2021, I'm working on my List of things to do.....and yes, it's LONG! I'm awake and ready to re-engage, re-connect, and re-build.  My take on life is to do what makes you happy, but "Be Strategic"  You don't have to do only one thing, especially if you are as passionate as me.  

Included in this list:

1.  Travel - I plan to travel to Paris in December and stay a month.  It's something I've been wanting to do and it's for me. I know it will be an experience. 

2.  I've found a home for Once Upon a Wedding Expo at the beautiful Kalahari Resort and Spa.  Stay tuned as planning unfolds.  Save the Date - November 7th.  I'm too excited about this.

3. B3 Network resumes in August.  Time to reconnect and rebuild all those business relationships.

4. I'm going back to school, yes, to major in Fashion Design and Marketing, something I am very passionate about.  Never stop learning.

5. Quality Promotions is being revamped as a Promotional Marketing and Event business.  I'll still do embroidery and screenprinting, but my focus is more marketing solutions through events.

6. CCandids Photography aka Cindy Ann Photography is undergoing formal training to be the best possible at capturing moments. 

We all have our pasts and what makes us who we are.  We also have our goals and ambitions. I'm dreaming big and taking risks and leaps and bounds because anything is possible if you believe. Need help getting motivated?  Drop me a line.  Be safe and get moving!

Huge Hugs
Cindy Ann

10 Tips for GREAT Headshots!

Hi, I'm Cindy Ann and I LOVE capturing GREAT images with a passion.  I'd love to help you with your portraiture needs.  I'd like to share a few things from a photographer's standpoint.   Selecting the right team can make the difference in your outcome.  I'd like to share a few tips for you that will help as you schedule your next session.  No matter what, relax and enjoy yourself.  The outcome will be much better.  Here are simple things you can do. 

1. Get acquainted with your photographer

Take some time before your session to know a bit about your photographer and share the style of shot you are looking for.  Is it for work or business?  You can either talk on the phone, chat, or better, meet face to face.  I personally like meeting people face to face.  It's important that your photographer knows a bit about you and what you are looking for and you both know what to expect from your session.  The best ice breaker is talking about your loved ones, kids, significant other or passion.  I noticed that my clients take a little while to relax into their sessions.  The best poses are towards the end of the session. :)

2. Determine type of images you want

Be sure to share your profession to determine the look you need captured.  Professional, Relaxed, Confident, Sexy, or Funny are a few looks.  Each require different poses or expressions that your photographer needs to create.  

3. Selecting your photographer 

Before scheduling your session, take some time to review your photography team's work.  Most photographers have a portfolio.  Do they have a hair and makeup team?  Do they have a studio?  Have they scouted area you will be having your session?  Are they easily available for questions before the session?  My information is listed at the bottom. :)

4. Recommended clothing and colors

Bring several top and a jacket or blazer is recommended for a more professional image and enable you to get different looks by simply removing or draping over.  Women look best in sleevless shirts with a jacket.  V-necks tend to make your face look slimmer.  If you are looking for a more formal look, be sure your clothes is pressed and neat, even if you need to clip it back for the right right look.  Bring several pieces like, jewelry, scarves or hairpieces to interchange for different looks depending on how long your session is.  Come prepared.  Be on time.  If you need to change outfits, be sure you know where that will take place and keep in line with the agreed session.  Simple changes of hair style can change the look completely as well as adding or removing accessories.
See recommended colors and some examples of apparel choices include:  

 

5. Recommended colors

Solid, neutral colors work best to ensure your face is the focus.  For professional headshots, avoid busy colors,  Solid colors work best.  

       

6. Lighting , Posing and Positioning

Whether in a studio or outdoors, be sure not to stand too close to your background to avoid unnecessary shadows.  These make your image look less professional.  For environmental or outdoor headshots taken on location, see if your photographer can implement bokeh setting, which creates a nice undescript background, especially when shot at a wide aperture. Typically I aim for an aperture of f/4 for environmental and natural light sessions, and f/8 for studio style sessions with lights.  Below are a few poses you can try.  You might want to practice in front of a mirror to find your best pose.  Some people prefer to sit.  Most photographers carry a stool or can find a sitting area in the shoot range.  Subtle changes in tilt or angel of your face can make a big difference on a good shot and a fabulous shot.  Know your angle.  Most photographers will assist you, but it helps to know your best side. :)

7. Hair and Makeup

Grooming and hair and makeup. For best results, get your hair and makeup professional done.  If doing yourself, don't overdo.  If doing yourself, be sure there is an hair and makeup professional available to provide touchups.  Powder works great to avoid any shiny spots. Most photographers who do not have a hair and makeup team will be able to provide recommendations to have it professionally done. Ask if you need help.

8. Session Time and Location

Be aware of the time of day you are shooting.  For best lighting, golden hour in the morning or evening are the best, but with proper lighting and editing, you can still get great images.  The best images are captured in a two hour window.  Quick or impromptu headshots can be great if you have an idea what you are doing and expecting.  Be sure your photographer has scouted areas for your session.

9. Expectations

Each package provides for specified prints, sittings, etc.  Know what is expected of you and what to expect from your photographer.  Most images take 2 to 4 weeks to edit and turn out depending on the number of participants.  Know when to expect images and what you will be getting.  If it is a TFP (Trade for Portfolio)  you may be have a limited selection of images.  Most packages have A la Carte where you can purchase additional images outside agreed package.  Be sure to sign a release of images so that your images can or cannot be shared publicly.

10.  Have Fun!

Don't be nervous.  Enjoy your shoot.  The easiest way to break the ice is to share something funny or silly as the photographer makes adjustment to the camera.  Silly faces will get you both laughing and relaxed and set the tone for a GREAT shoot.  Don't be afraid to speak up and share what you want.  It's no different than ordering an entree.  Ask for exactly what you want. :)

I hope these tips help lead to a better headshot experience.  If you have any questions, peasel dont hesitate to call on me.  512-576-3990 or email ccandids@yahoo.com

Cindy Ann, Photographer
C Candids Photography

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