Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Professional Photos

I had a professional Author photo taken a couple of years ago. I found a local studio, liked what I saw of the photographer's portfolio, and scheduled an appointment. I had my hair and makeup done directly beforehand. But the guy never set me at ease and I was not completely pleased with the photo.  


With my books finally hitting the market this year and next, as Tace Baker and as Edith Maxwell, I wanted to try again. A bunch of my Sisters in Crime had visited a studio in Portland, Maine, last year and came away with fantastic attractive head shots, but I had been out with my back surgery, and that was a little far to travel.


So I asked my friend Jeanne, who is in PR and marketing, if she knew anyone good, and she said, "Yes! My friend Meg Manion Silliker!" So last week Meg came over at five PM. She only uses natural light and said it was best then. Jeanne came along for the fun, and to help me relax. Boy, did that ever work (that's me with Jeanne). We wandered around the back yard, ventured out into the street, and finally ended up down the block at the Ipwsich River, which had fabulous light.


I am so delighted with the photos! I was thinking I'd use different ones for my two identities, but now I think I'm just going for the same look. She gave me my choice of several dozen and I selected a handful I liked the best. It was well worth the money, and the three of us had a glass of wine afterwards. I think I just made a new friend, and hope I can steer some business her way.


I am normally one of the most unphotogenic people I know - when I smile it comes out looking like I felt sick that day - so this is an extra treat.


What do you think? Have you had a professional photo taken lately?

27 comments:

  1. I love these! The photo looks like someone who is fun and easy-going, a kick to be around. In other words, I think she captured you.

    I also love the purple in the background--is that your house?

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  2. Thanks, Ramona. Yes, that's my house! She and my friend Jeanne totally set me at ease, which was what I was aiming for.

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  3. i am so very flattered. i can't tell you what it means to me when a client is happy. i always want to approach my photography the way i would a friendship - we sure had a lot of laughs. you set me at ease too you know, so we are now kindred spirits. i can't wait to read your novels and wish you all the success in the world. xo

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  4. Beautiful -- shows your inner AND outer beauty!

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  5. Great pictures. For years, I've been trying to get a photo taken that makes me look smart and interesting. Your photographer got it in one. You look fabulous, and of course, we are SO excited about the new series.

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  6. Thanks SO much, Kate. I can give you Meg's phone number!

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  7. Good shots, and you do look at ease. Oh, and happy too! That must happen after securing publishing contracts.

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  8. What great photos, Edith! These will be great author photos on your new books.

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  9. Thanks, Ricky and Gigi! Yes, happy to have books on which to put photos. ;^)

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  10. it's a lovely photo Edith.

    And Kate, you always look smart and interesting!

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  11. Great pictures, Edith. They all show someone I'd like to know. Love the happy, relaxed personality that comes through.

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    1. Thanks, Ellis. Let's meet up at a conference one day soon.

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  12. Great photos! I hope I can find someone in my neck of the woods to do such a wonderful job. I'm sure I can claim the title for the most non-photogenic person.

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  13. Love these pictures, Edith. The casual look with a professional air. Good luck with your series.

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  14. I liked your old picture. You look friendly and approachable in it, but these are very, very nice! Lots of personality comes through. And you are NOT the world's most unphotogenic person--I am.

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  15. Thanks, Kaye. I liked the old one, but I knew I was a bit uncomfortable in it. Glad you like the new ones, too.

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  16. I like the photos, Edith. You look fantastic, professional, happy. The pics I just had done at the ASJA conference are very similar in that I was wearing black and white with my arms crossed. How about that!

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    1. Thanks, Rae. Yes, I noticed your new one. Very nice!

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  17. These are just wonderful, Edith!

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  18. I am so glad you posted about your photos. I was drawn in immediately when I saw your FB profile photo had changed and I wanted to know more. This is fabulous. I've been nervous about finding a photographer to do my photos - this helps a lot!

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    1. Lisa, you should come to Newburyport for your photos, and bring a friend. Meg was so professional AND so nice. She had great ideas about posing, colors, and the light.

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