Visual-Rx

05/14/2025

My favorites 🤩💯✨

05/06/2025

Sometimes, I think about how varied
my work is from other professions. I got two
emails this week from such different
industries, and I love that I can help them both.

Enjoy some vastly different pieces headed out
into the world on the next page.

09/16/2024

👋 I’m done with the new branding for myself! Even have shirts to wear to shoots! I’m feeling so official 😂

08/22/2024

https://www.visual-rx.com/blog/understanding-what-your-designer-is-after

Have you ever wondered why your graphic designer insists on a "vectorized" version of your logo? Here's your answer.

08/22/2024

08/06/2024

Part two is all about the day of the photo shoot. Just like before, I’ll comment on what AI suggests.

AI:
Strike a Pose (or Just Relax)

Sarah:
Yes, the two easiest things to do in front of a camera! 0 points, AI. For most, you can’t just do those things without practice. If you see you’ll be posing for a photo soon, go look at images of people posing. Pull references aside and see what they have in common so you can practice. If you are nervous in front of the camera, remember it’s digital - you aren’t slowing people down, you aren’t wasting the photographer’s time, it’s ok to take photos and look and adjust!

AI:
If you're camera-shy, practice smiling in the mirror or taking selfies. It might feel silly, but it can boost your confidence.

Sarah:
Practicing in the mirror does help for posing. For me personally, I know that when I smile one side of my mouth goes up more than the other and so I position myself with the more up end turned towards the camera. The big eye / little eye is common too - face the camera with the little “more closed” one. You can also look at photos you’ve taken and see which ones you like the most of you and make the same deductions. Example: You prefer the selfies where you stand the left of someone. That’s good info!

AI:
Stand tall with your shoulders relaxed. Good posture instantly makes you look more confident and polished.

Sarah:
AI nailed this one. When people are nervous in front of the camera - they instantly lose posture and camera amplifies that in an awkward way. Unless you have practiced neat model moves and/ or are outgoing and ready to pose in funky ways - remember your posture, 9 times out of 10 people prefer the better posture photo. There is also an art of sitting which will be too long to post here in full but in short - if you get told to sit, scoot your butt to edge of the seat.

07/31/2024

I asked Gemini to write me a blog post about how to prepare to take group photographs at work to see what it’d come up with.
Results and my comments below:

AI:
Smile! You're About to Be Photographed

Sarah:
If I got this as an email subject I already wouldn’t want to do this. If you are the person sending out this email, please just say what’s happening and a date.

AI:
Dress to Impress (or at Least Look Polished)
Check the Dress Code: If there’s a specific dress code, stick to it. If not, opt for business casual or something that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Sarah:
The first part is solid - if there is a dress code, stick to it. Agree. The second part is subjective to your business culture/ dress code. Ask what others are wearing, or ask the person who is in charge of the shoot on your side so you don’t over or underdress. From a photographer standpoint if you don’t have a dress code, but these photos will be represented on your business website - don’t wear another’s business logo prominently.

AI:
Coordinate, Don’t Match: While matching outfits isn't necessary, coordinating colors can create a cohesive look. Think complementary shades or a similar color palette.

Sarah:
I agree, and we need to take it even further. If your photographer is taking photos in your place of business - take a quick walk for the nice spots that can hold the group and snap some photos on your phone. What does it look like? If it’s a moody, dark paint accent wall, think about that - It’s a great starting point for figuring out what to wear.

AI:
Hair and Makeup: Keep it Simple
Natural is Best: For most work environments, a natural look is ideal. Let your natural beauty shine through.
Quick Fixes: If you need a touch-up, bring along essentials like hairspray, lip gloss, or powder.

Sarah:
First - I agree with a natural look- HOWEVER there are caveats. If you are wearing makeup - you have to amp it up a little bit for the camera. If you don’t really wear much on a regular basis consider going to a makeup artist. They do regular style too - not just heavy stuff! If you don’t want to do that, put your makeup on and check it periodically with your phone camera set on a timer so you can stand away from it. Touch up stuff is good for lips and anyone who is shiny. Bathroom paper towels can be great in a pinch.

Other things. If you are wearing a hat, take it off at least an hour or so before the shoot so you don’ t have lines on your forehead or hair. Lastly, If you have to search for the device to do something with your hair and it’s not something you use everyday/ within arms reach, consider getting your hair done by a professional or doing it the way you normally do so you aren't self conscious about it.

We'll end part 1 here! Next time we'll chat posing and more tips.

07/19/2024

Looking for a photo club?

Photoventure.org is a thriving community dedicated to all things photography. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious beginner, Photo Venture Camera Club offers a welcoming space to learn, share, and grow your photography skills.

As the Membership Chair, I'm excited to extend a warm invitation to all photography enthusiasts on LinkedIn to join our community. Photoventure.org offers a variety of benefits, including:

Educational Workshops and Events: Expand your knowledge with workshops/meetings on a range of topics, and participate in exciting photo walks and field trips.
Critique and Feedback: Get constructive feedback on your photos from experienced photographers and fellow members.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, build lasting friendships, and collaborate on creative projects.

If you want to check out our upcoming events follow this link: https://photoventure.org/pvcc-calendar

03/05/2024

Hey all! I'm so excited to share my experience (and amazing photos...) from the exclusive portrait workshop with Canon creator Marina Williams.

11/21/2023

10/31/2023

Need a family photo for your Christmas cards, or want a cute pic of your dog? Last time was here, someone came and did their maternity pics (& they turned out SO cute)!
So really, whatever occasion, come get your pictures taken & shop .art while you’re at it!