November 2, 2009 10:04 PM
My photo by Patty Schuchman Photography
Some of you noticed my new picture and I wanted to tell you a little bit about it.
For years I have either had a family member take my picture or I have set the timer on my camera and taken it myself. I've always wanted a professional picture but after a run in a few years ago with a photographer who didn't seem to get much about me and who wasn't willing to return my money even though I didn't use her pictures, I didn't want to have another bad experience.
But this summer I came across a local photographer who took pictures for the Growing Stage production of Pirates of Penzance and I felt confident enough in her ability to take a risk and try again. Her name is Patty Schuchman and she's at the point in her career where she is building her reputation so she is not beyond a modest budget.
Last Friday around 4:00 she came out to my house and shot a bunch of pictures. As always, I wanted an outdoor shot. I think people look best outdoors, don't you? Though it was cloudy, the colors were fantastic. And Patty had a light setup - which really makes a big difference.
Although I'd just met Patty in person for the first time, she made me feel very comfortable and sure of the process. She said I was easy to work with because I knew my signature pose and smile (some people don't). That evening she sent me a dozen or so images she had picked as the best - and the one you see on my blog was the one that I immediately liked. I didn't want a lot of retouching - just one line between my eyebrows - so this picture is pretty much the way it looked the first time I saw it.
The only thing is, I forgot to wear my wedding ring - I'd taken it off to rub some hand lotion into my hands and forgotten to put it back on. Wah!
Anyway, my advice if you're local and looking for a photographer for your family, your professionals needs, an event or a performance is to call Patty, don't forget your wedding ring, and practice in front of the mirror to see if you can find your signature look. The only reason I knew mine was because I've been taking these headshots every 6 months or so for my blog - trying to improve the results.
But clearly, nothing beats a pro. This photo will be up for a long time.
Thank you, Patty!
Posted in | Permalink
Comments
I love your new photo, Barbara. It definitely looks just how I imagine you - warm, take no guff, and above all honest, for showing the tattoo that many women in your position would have had removed or photoshopped out. I like it a lot.
Posted by: Genevieve | November 3, 2009 12:33 AM
I think it is a very flattering picture of you! I love it!
Posted by: Julie | November 3, 2009 1:58 AM
Dear Barbara, I like this photo so much better than the last one. You look softer and sweeter in this new picture. I also liked the first one you had up with your hair long. I noticed in the family pictures that Samantha really does look like you.... You are quite a Lady. you wear "MANY HATS".....IN jesus love Becky
Posted by: Rebecca Wold | November 3, 2009 4:26 AM
OH I LOVE it!!! LOVE it love it LOVE IT! This picture is truly YOU! To be bare bones honest, I never liked the last picture you had. To me it didn't show through the "kind, caring, gentle, wise Barbara" I'd come to know and love. It seemed to carry a smirk or something to it, just a bit, ....but this one! Oh Barbara! I LOVE this one! Your grey is growing out so beautifully, and the colors you chose to wear compliment the background...it is just perfect!! I absolutely love it! (Now, if I could just find a good photographer here in Germany!!)
Kristy in Germany
Posted by: Kristy in Germany | November 3, 2009 5:35 AM
Barbara, I love the new photo. You look great. Keep up your awesome work.
Jill
Posted by: Jill | November 3, 2009 8:19 AM
The new picture is beautiful. I love your hair style and the color is fabulous--I know you are growing out your gray and it really looks very nice:) I agree with the other comments in that you look so warm and genuine.
Posted by: Victoria | November 3, 2009 9:02 AM
I had noticed the new pic but hadn't gotten around to commenting yet -- I really like it too. The colors are great!
Posted by: Donica | November 3, 2009 9:03 AM
Lovely!
Posted by: A Mac and a Mug O' Joe | November 3, 2009 9:25 AM
Thank you Barbara - you were a pleasure to work with! I'm so happy you found an image you are happy with and I look forward to seeing the image and the real life person many times in the future!
Posted by: Patty Schuchman | November 3, 2009 11:08 AM
You look great, Barbara. :) God bless you -
Posted by: Holly | November 3, 2009 3:53 PM
