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fine art photographyJoan Marie

Category Archives: Branding & Headshots

Shots, shots, shots! … Headshots, of course!

  • beautiful brunette poses in front of a white backdrop for her headshot session in scotch plains nj with joan marie photography
  • headshot of a blonde woman with beach wavy hair has her headshot done infront of a pink backdrop

Professional Headshot Sessions in Scotch Plains, NJ: A Fun Ride through Recent Sessions

Hey there! Grab a seat and let me take you on a whirlwind tour of my recent professional headshot sessions in Scotch Plains, NJ. From corporate climbers to aspiring actors, it’s been a blast capturing the essence of each unique personality that walks through my studio doors.

The Conversational Click

Picture this: a serious discussion about career aspirations interrupted by my sudden “wait, that lighting is perfect!” moment. Yes, my clients have learned to expect my random bursts of photographic enthusiasm. But hey, it’s all part of the magic of creating that perfect headshot.

Lighting Shenanigans

Let’s talk about lighting – the unsung hero of every good photograph. There’s a fine line between “professional glow” and “alien abduction.” Thankfully, we’ve managed to steer clear of the latter (mostly). It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your confidence shines brighter than any studio light can.

Expressions Galore

Ever tried to coax a natural smile out of someone who’s had too much coffee? Trust me, it’s an art form. From the classic “smolder” to the “I’m approachable but not too approachable” vibe, we’ve nailed them all. And yes, I’ve seen the full spectrum of eyebrow raises – from “I’m intrigued” to “Did you just say what I think you said?”

Diverse Tales, Shared Laughs

Seriously though, the best part of these sessions is the stories. I’ve had CEOs plotting world domination (in a good way, of course) and budding actors channeling their inner Meryl Streep. Each click of the shutter captures a snippet of their journey, and I’m just here for the ride – camera in hand and ready for whatever expression comes next.

Looking Ahead (Literally and Figuratively)

As I reflect on these sessions, I can’t help but grin at the memories we’ve created together. Scotch Plains, you’ve been an awesome backdrop to this photographic rollercoaster. And to my clients – thank you for trusting me to freeze-frame your brilliance, quirks, and everything in between.

So, whether you’re gearing up for that big career move or just want a killer LinkedIn profile pic (because who doesn’t?), let’s make some magic happen. Get in touch, and let’s capture your essence – with a side of laughter and maybe a few eyebrow raises thrown in for good measure.

You can see more of my headshot work here!

Ready to shine in front of the lens? Contact me today and let’s create headshots that are as unique as you are.

photo of neon sign displaying the company name, M Pilates + Yoga NJ

LEANNE KACSUR

M PILATES + YOGA

GARWOOD, NJ

Capturing the Essence of Wellness: A Branding Photography Shoot for M Pilates + Yoga Studio

As a photographer, I often find myself in diverse settings, each presenting its own unique charm and challenge. Recently, I had the pleasure of collaborating with M Pilates + Yoga Studio. This journey was not just about capturing images; it was about telling a story of wellness, strength, and community.

Before diving into the shoot, I engaged in extensive discussions with the Leanne at M Pilates + Yoga. Understanding their brand identity, values, and vision was paramount in crafting the narrative we wanted to convey through the visuals. So we brainstormed ideas, explored themes, and planned to ensure the photos would authentically represent the studio’s ethos.

Behind the Lens

So, on the day of the shoot, the studio buzzed with energy and enthusiasm. From the tranquil ambiance to the dedicated instructors guiding their clients through graceful movements, every aspect of M Pilates + Yoga breathed life into the frames. The focus of this shoot was to get some headshots and some detailed shots of the studios, equipment and inspirational items found throughout the studio.

Bringing the Brand to Life

Throughout the shoot, I focused on highlighting the unique features that set M Pilates apart. Whether it was the state-of-the-art equipment or the welcoming atmosphere, each image was carefully crafted to showcase the studio’s strengths. From close-up shots to wide-angle captures that portrayed the sense of space and serenity, every photograph was a testament to the studio’s commitment to holistic wellness.

Building a Visual Narrative

But as the shoot progressed, a narrative began to emerge – one of vitality, balance, and empowerment. The images spoke not only to the physical benefits of Pilates but also to the mental and emotional well-being it fosters.

The Final Flourish

Finally, after hours of shooting, we wrapped up the session with a sense of accomplishment and excitement. But the journey didn’t end there. Back at my studio, I carefully curated and edited the images, ensuring they aligned seamlessly with M Pilates + Yoga Studio’s brand aesthetic. The final collection was a testament to our collaboration – a vibrant tapestry of images that encapsulated the essence of the studio.

Working with M Pilates + Yoga Studio was not just a professional endeavor; it was a journey of discovery and creativity. And through our collaboration, we succeeded in capturing the heart and soul of the studio, translating its values and spirit into captivating visuals. Lastly, I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this process and look forward to next quarter’s Branding shoot!

Capturing Character: A Month in the Studio

Over the past month, my studio has been buzzing with creativity as I’ve had the pleasure of capturing the essence of numerous individuals through headshot photography. Each session has been a unique journey, a blend of artistry and storytelling, as I endeavor to encapsulate the personality and professionalism of my clients in a single frame.

The Art of Portraiture

In the world of photography, headshots hold a special place. They’re more than just a picture; they’re a visual handshake, a glimpse into the character and competence of the subject. As I prepare for each session, I approach it not just as a technical task but as an opportunity to create something meaningful. From adjusting lighting to directing poses, every aspect is meticulously curated to showcase the best version of my clients.

A Tapestry of Faces

What makes each session truly special is the diversity of faces and stories that grace my studio. From aspiring actors to seasoned professionals, each individual brings their own narrative, their own unique blend of dreams and aspirations.

Through conversation and collaboration, I strive to create an environment where my clients feel comfortable and confident. This allows their true selves to shine through. In these moments of authenticity, magic happens, resulting in headshots that not only capture a likeness but also a spirit.

But my role doesn’t end with the click of the shutter. In post-production, I meticulously fine-tune each image, ensuring that every detail is just right. From color correction to retouching, my goal is to deliver headshots that not only meet but exceed my clients’ expectations.

The Attitude of Gratitude

When I look back on the past month, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to do what I love. Each session has been a reminder of the power of photography to capture moments, memories, and milestones. As I prepare for the month ahead, I do so with renewed passion and purpose, eager to continue telling stories one headshot at a time.

And in the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to overlook the significance of a simple headshot. But behind every image lies a wealth of emotion, experience, and identity waiting to be discovered. As I continue on this journey, I’m reminded of the profound privilege it is to be a storyteller, one frame at a time.

Local Clark NJ Builder creates custom home with indoor basketball court

BONOMO & SONS

JACK BONOMO

BONOMO & SONS

CLARK, NJ

Custom Home by Bonomo & Sons

I recently met with custom home builder Jack Bonomo of Bonomo & Sons, based out of Clark, NJ for Scotch Plains City Lifestyle. This home was a fully customized residence with no detail left unturned. From an indoor basketball court to home theater, why would you ever want to leave?!

The home itself was absolutely stunning and still in the building phase, but it was easy to imagine the final result, the holidays and family dinners, movie premiers and 1 on 1 matches. This custom home is going to be an absolutely gorgeous residence and the center of many family gatherings in the years to come.

To read the article written by Sue Baldani, click here.

SCOTCH PLAINS CITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE | MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER – LYNN HARRIS

Our publication is a community-focused magazine that aims to connect the residents to the people, places and things that make our city special. We are inspired by the unique atmosphere our city has, and we highlight the most positive aspects of living here. From locally owned businesses to inspirational residents, these pages will be your guide.

More City Lifestyle…

Read More...

Grano Pizzeria and Italian Tavern

Antonino LoCascio

Grano Pizzeria and Italian Tavern

Scotch Plains, NJ

I recently had the pleasure of photographing Grano Pizzeria and Italian Tavern, an Italian Restaurant on Park Avenue in Scotch Plains, NJ for Scotch Plains City Lifestyle. We were happily greeted by Nino who is the owner and chef! In addition to getting shots of the interior, he made some dishes for us to photograph as well. And OMG…I even had the opportunity to try out the food he made and it was AMAZING! And I especially loved the pepperoni pizza that had the sweet honey drizzled on it. How have I never had that combination before??? Trust me, you HAVE to try it!

Besides the amazing menu they offer at Grano, they have a really gorgeous bar. It is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail or share some appy’s with some friends. And although I have not attended yet, Nino occasionally hosts Sunday brunches which look like a blast with music and mimosas! Whoever is running their social media is really good about posting so be sure to follow Grano’s instagram and Chef Nino’s where you can catch him doing lives and sharing some delicious recipes!

So if you are looking for an amazing Italian restaurant in Scotch Plains, look no further! Grano has it all, and it is absolutely mouth watering delicioso!

To read the article, click here.

SCOTCH PLAINS CITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE | MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER – LYNN HARRIS

Our publication is a community-focused magazine that aims to connect the residents to the people, places and things that make our city special. We are inspired by the unique atmosphere our city has, and we highlight the most positive aspects of living here. From locally owned businesses to inspirational residents, these pages will be your guide.

Latest Headshots at The Studio

It has been an active month of headshot photos at my Scotch Plains NJ portrait studio! I’ve had a number of Clients come in for updated corporate headshots. And I have even traveled to a couple of offices to capture some professional photos!

When I take headshots my goal is to get your classic corporate photos, but with a twist. I want my headshot photos to really capture my Client’s personality and give a little bit of edge and artistic flair to them. And I think I’m pretty good at that 😉

Both Jaime and Fred chose me because they liked my style. They wanted something a little different than the boring ol’ oh hey here is my camera and I’m going to just take a quick snap, badda bing, badda boom, you’re done. Borrrrrrinnnnnggggg…

Upon booking, I send my Clients a headshot guide to help them with outfit and color selection. And Pinterest…Pinterest is the best! I have a million pinterest boards (slight exaggeration). I have my own Pinterest board for headshots. But I also I always have my Clients create a pinterest board that we can share and reference when planning outfits and even refer to during the shoot! With my new setup I am able to tether my camera to my laptop. This gives us the ability to look at a large tv screen while we shoot. It gives real time results and make adjustments as we go!

Both Fred and Jaime chose my 3 file Collection. I am so glad they did because we had so many great shots! Here are the headshot photos that Fred and Jaime picked from their sessions. I love them!

Jaime’s Final Images

Fred’s Final Images

Learn more about my headshots here!

Virginie’s Headshot Session in Scotch Plains NJ

Don’t worry, I’m weird!

We did Virgie’s Headshot Photography Session in Scotch Plains in my Studio. Virginie contacted me about headshots at the end of 2023. She was looking for some updated professional headshots and came across my website where she saw some of my headshot work. We had a phone call about what she was looking for and she mentioned that she feels a little awkward and shy about having her photos taken. I promised her that it would be fun and she wouldn’t feel weird because I am a total weirdo! HAHA! I told her that we would have a ton of fun and fun we had!

Are you like Virginie? Are you afraid to invest money in headshots because you don’t know if you’ll like your photos? I promise you will! Let’s do this! Check out Virginie’s headshots below. I absolutely LOVE how they came out and she even got some extras! You can see more of my headshots here!

Ready to book your own Professional Headshot Photography Session in Scotch Plains? Fill out my contact form and let’s get you on my calendar!

Recent Headshots!

I’ve been doing a good amount of professional headshots lately and I freakin’ love them! I have a variety of backdrop colors that I use for these sessions and I really enjoy playing with colors. One thing I’ve noticed I’m drawn to is how color choices can really enhance and pick up natural skin tones. I have always been interested in color theory and I really want to delve deeper into the power of color and how colors can compliment one another.

I consider my headshots to be a bit more artistic than what most people think of when they hear “headshots”. For me, there’s definitely more involved than having a camera. And I also think a headshot should capture your personality. That can be done in a number of ways. Your hair style, makeup, posing, outfit choice all work together to tell a story; the story of YOU! But another way we can do that is through COLOR! And that doesn’t mean that it has to be BOLD color. It can be subtle, monochromatic, feminine, soft, and of course it CAN be bold too!

While there are so many challenges with the world we are living in today, there are some things that I truly love about these times. We are more open minded and able to present ourselves in a more meaningful way through pictures. Humankind has always had a propensity for storytelling. It’s one of the things I love most about photography. It is a challenge for sure, but to be able to capture and tell a story through one single image literally gives me life. And I even strive to do that with my headshot photography.

Headshot Guides

I recently started sending out a professional headshot guide to my Clients to help them plan for their session. I think it is helpful to think about color and style choices of outfits for their session. But it also gives them the power to interpret it in their own unique way.

Pinterest

Another suggestion I give is to use Pinterest. Create a board and pin pictures of professional headshots that you love. This can help you see the types of posing, outfits, colors and composition that you are drawn to. Not only does it help them get inspiration and ideas, but it is helpful for your photographer! It gives ME inspiration. It gets me excited to work with you and capture you in a way that you are bound to love!

WIN – WIN!

So anywho, here are some of the headshots I’ve been doing recently. I put so much into my work and it really makes me feel so special that the photographs that I make for people could play an important part in getting them that next big promotion or job! I love giving people confidence and I’m telling you…a FIRE (yeah I have a teenager) headshot can give you a big confidence boost!

Want to know more?

Head on over to my headshot page to read more about my headshots and see the work I do!

What’s Happening at The Studio

I offer my regular full sessions all year long! That includes Family, Newborn, Dating, Pets, Engagements, etc. But there will be certain times throughout the year that I will offer Specials. These are typically shorter sessions that are built around specific themes. So if you would like to work with me, but aren’t ready to invest in your fully customized session, maybe one of these Photography Specials is for you!

If you would like to subscribe to my e-mail list, you can do so here:

Minis


Are you looking to get some fresh headshots for your social media profiles? Maybe an updated professional photo of your child? This event is for you! With over $300 in savings and special bundle add-ons, it’s a great way to update your social and professional platforms and also get a quick confidence booster! I always say that headshots are not just for your accounts and your work, but they are FOR YOU! This is a full day of mini sessions scheduled back to back with image selection and ordering done immediately after the photoshoot. Can you say instant gratification?

*Minis are offered quarterly and limited space is available.

My Next Event is on 8/7!

BOOK NOW

Are mini sessions right for you?

Not sure if a mini session is right for you? Click here to read more about mini sessions and if they’re the right fit for you.

If you would rather a more private experience, or custom family session, you’re in luck! I offer these all year and would love to capture your family. Whether you are looking for a Studio experience or an outdoor photoshoot with the fall leaves or the beach at sunset as your backdrop, I’ve got you covered. Let’s talk more about how I can help you capture your family in your own unique way!

High School Seniors!

Whether your child just graduated or is a rising High School Senior, now is the time to capture this special time. Because before you know it, they are embarking on their next adventure! It’s a unique opportunity to freeze time, to have a special day to celebrate them and all that they have accomplished and the person they have become. And selfishly it’s a time for you to have a special day where you can cherish the togetherness.

Most families book Senior Sessions thinking they just want to get a couple of photos for their child’s yearbook or tribute page. But in the end, it actually becomes a beautiful memory of a day spent together. A day where time slows down and the things we prioritize as urgent fade away. Awakening us to the realization that THIS is the real urgency. The here and the now. The time before your child leaves the nest to soar on their own. The pricelessness of TIME standing still, just for a day. Sharing in connection with each other. Because truly, THIS is what life is really all about. And sometimes we may just need that photoshoot to give us that gentle reminder.

High School Senior stands in field with flowers in Hillsborough NJ with Scotch Plains Senior Photographer Joan Marie

CALLING ALL HAIR AND MAKE-UP ARTISTS!

Are you a hair and/or make-up artist? Do you know someone who is? I am looking for local make-up and hair artists that I can partner with! If you or someone you know may be interested, please provide your contact information and then complete the questionnaire to see if we may be a good fit!

I’m still Joni from the Block – BLOCK PARTY, that is!

If my sons read that or knew that I used that in a blog post they would tell me how cringe I am. LOL, oh well! I will wear it proudly!

This Saturday is the first East 2nd Street Block Party in Scotch Plains! I’m super excited to be participating in it along with a bunch of other local businesses! There is even going to be a car show! I never had that official tape cutting Grand Opening for The Studio so while it has been so exciting getting that space, it was also pretty anti climatic! HAHA! So I feel like this Saturday will be a great opportunity for me to meet people and the other business owners that I haven’t had a chance to meet yet. I’m a Fanwood resident so not only is this where my business is, but it’s my COMMUNITY.

I know that some of the businesses will be offering things from their establishments, but I am a Portrait Studio so it’s a little bit different. I AM thinking about doing a fun selfie station (think pink), having photographic prints available for purchase, maybe even do a raffle? But I am excited to show my face and also talk about the services and products that I offer which make me different than other photographers.

To read more about The East 2nd Street Block Party and the participants, click HERE!

joan marie

1589 E 2nd Street

Scotch Plains, NJ 07076

908.312.1788 | info@joanmariephotography.com

379968614