Christina Gressianu Photographer

Portrait Photography Studio in Loveland, Colorado

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Client Spotlight: Linda Potter

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One of the best parts of my work as a “people photographer” is that I get to collaborate with some pretty amazing, talented clients. In fact, one of my recent clients, Linda Potter, is super creative in her own right. She just wrote a book titled, If Only God Would Give Me a Sign!, and we had a TON of fun taking photos to help launch and promote the book. In fact, one of the portraits is featured on the “About the Author” page!

Linda was so great to work with because she was open to suggestions, contributed her own ideas, and came ready and willing with a bunch of props. Her book cover art features her in a pink robe, so she brought that to use along with her trademark glasses, laptop, and lots of other fun personal stuff – including multiple outfits. This gave us a lot of looks to work with until we found something that felt natural and fitting for the image Linda wanted.

She settled on the “smart, hip grandma” look, which really came across in the final photo selection. It also helped that her publicist sent along possible headlines to work with as a guide for potential shoot ideas.

As a self-admitted picture-phobe, Linda brought her daughter along to help with make-up and for moral support. And even though she dislikes getting her photo taken, she was a great sport and really willing to be playful throughout the shoot to explore different angles of the “grandma” character. I had a great time working with Linda, and I’m so happy to feature her and her great book in my client kudos blog post this month.

You can check out Linda’s new book at http://wordkeepersinc.com/god_sign_potter.html or visit her site directly at www.lindampotter.com

Thanks Linda, and good luck with the book tour!

How much is the right headshot worth?

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When you need a service—a new dentist, hair stylist, veterinarian— how do you find a good one? The Right One? For me, I ask my friends first. An endorsement from a friend of mine is the best. But, what if you don’t have anyone to ask, like when I first moved to Fort Collins from New York? Well, then I just look around websites to find businesses I think I can trust. And I’ve noticed that I go by the photos. I picked a dermatologist just because I got a good feeling when I saw her picture on her website.

During the years that I worked in advertising, every real estate agent needed his or her photo on everything. Business cards, newspaper ads, brochures… everything. They all said that they simply get a better response when people can see their faces. And it’s not about looking a certain way or fitting into any definition of “attractive.” It’s about making a connection.

Ever notice that books have author photos in them? Why do you think that is?

And so how much do you think the right head shot is worth for your business? And since the name of the game is “connection,” then the right headshot is one where you look authentic, personable and approachable. The days of the stuffy studio portrait are over. This not to say that the right head shot can’t be done in a studio, but it certainly can’t be done the way a studio portrait comes to mind. It can’t be done like a 5th grade school photo. And it has to be current. A head shot is not authentic it doesn’t look like you today. Especially with this incredibly exciting explosion of social media. If you’re a fun person, and that’s why people should hire you to do whatever it is you, then your photo should feel fun. You should look like you’re having fun in that photo. But if you are uncomfortable in your photo, how do you think a Twitter or Facebook friend will relate? Or that new girl in town who’s looking for your service?

Head shots with me are a relaxed, fun experience. And these aren’t my words… After our session Dawn Todd (pictured above) said “Thank you, these look great!! thank you for making me feel so comfortable! it was painless and easy! ! ” And her photo reflects that. She’s had compliment after compliment on it. She loves it, she uses it on all her marketing materials, and it helps her business.

Viveka Von Rosen and Crystal Vilkaitis are Social Media Marketting Geniuses

I know it’s hard to evaluate a photo of yourself subjectively. And your friends will probably tell you your photo is great because they love you. So, for the rest of January, I’m offering free head shot evaluations. Email your photo to me at photo@christinagressianu.com, and I’ll tell you what it conveys, how it feels. Also tell me what your business is. Knowing if you’re a party planner, or an accountant helps me evaluate better. If after my evaluation, you schedule a head shot session with me, I’ll give you 20% off, just because I think every business owner should have great photos of themselves and their staff.

Dr. Towbin and Dr. Lefler, are both, well... doctors.

I want to help you make the connection.

Amy Walsh is a Family Therapist, and William Combs is a lawyer!