An Author's Photo

I've been photographing writers for years. The days of hiding behind the written paper are over. Author photos are now being used for more than just book jackets -see Court's photo that appears on statesman.com and check out his entertaining blog theexistentiallip.com.

How to photograph on a sunny day

The SUN is back and we are all thrilled! Here are a few tips on photographing on a sunny day:
Your camera should automatically pick the lowest ISO speed (50 or 100)- the lower the number in "film" speed, the truer the colors will be and the finer the grain. This is why sunny days are great for capturing nature and buildings. So let your camera's meter do the work for you and you can focus on colors, composition, and interesting shadows. As for photographing people, keep them in the shade or have their backs to the sun.. then manually turn your flash to "ON" so you'll be filling in the darker shadows with some flash while the rest of shot remains in the correct exposure.. giving added ooph to your images!

CBS News The Early Show appearance on the topic of bartering

"Bartering is on the rise in the economic recession"
I'm a big fan of "exchange of services" and have been bartering for years. Not only have I been pleased with the services but they have opened up networking opportunities and lasting friendships. The Early Show on CBS was doing a story and came to my studio to hear about my about my experiences.

How To Improve Your Online Job Search With A Photo

Have you googled today? With today's technology, we are OUT with the intrigue and IN with exposure. Online exposure to be exact. There is the tried and true theory that by attaching your smiling face to your resume, it makes it more difficult for a potential employer to toss a human image into the trash than a plain sheet of paper. People want a visual of you and they will search online to find one. So, you might as well make it easy on them.

It's common knowledge that employers are now turning to google images, facebook, myspace, linked, and so on... for a glimpse of what the 'real' you is like. You without the interview outfit or borrowed briefcase.

Besides the obvious answer of HIRE a GREAT PHOTOGRAPHER (shameless plug), I will offer you a few tips:

1. Be aware of what your friends are snapping, posting, and tagging. There are many online photo album share companies that are free to join -such as kodakgallery.com.
2. Keep your photo current. They shouldn't only be finding you on classmates.com with your black & white photo and Pat Benatar hair!
3. Have different looks taken. Business conservative to creative casual. You never know what type of company you'll end up working for -keep an open mind on your job search.
4. Show personality and expression in your photos. It could be as slight as a upward turn of your mouth or a raised eyebrow to a full on smile -whatever would be appropriate for you.
   
5. Keep it real- Women will want- "natural" makeup, low hair, no cleavage, and simple jewelry. Men have it easy- just suck it in and button your jacket. Light on the retouch for all... you want to be recognized you when you show up for the interview.
6. Relax and trust the photographer ;-)