Photographer for Adult Portraits

Parent Q&A

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  • Looking for recommendations for someone who can take a corporate style professional headshot that's appropriate for settings like a Linkedin profile. Proximity to Montclair would be great, but happy to travel in reasonable proximity within the East Bay. Also possibly someone who could do makeup for this. Recommendations much appreciated!

    Several years ago, I used Sam Willard Photography - he's based in Oakland, and he was great to work with on my head shot.  Really nice and reasonable pricing.  (Granted, it was 2019!)

    His website is samwillardphoto.com

    Hi! My friend Melissa van Ruiten does excellent work. She's based in Brentwood, but is happy to travel. Like most pros, she's focused on wedding and family photography, but does portraiture and custom shoots as needed. My professional headshot for the last company I worked for was done by her and I was very pleased with it. https://melissavanruiten.photo

    I used Two Dudes Photo for my LinkedIn profile picture and liked the pictures they took. Their studio is out in Walnut Creek but they were very professional and very good at setting people at ease. 

    Shawna McCarroll Photography is in Berkeley. She is great with headshots, fun and easy to work with! I have used her for family photos and she did headshots for my in laws. 
    https://www.shawnamccarroll.com

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  • Seeking current recommendations for family photographer comfortable with teens. No jumping in the air candids. Affordable and quick. My teens are tolerant but not enthusiastic about a photo session.

    Hi - I, too, have a teen with little patience for family photos. Twice now we have had a great experience -- and really great photos! -- by Jonathan Miller. He is really approachable and my teens feel comfortable with him. He has all the equipment needed for great family photos both indoors and out, and he's efficient so it fit my teen's tolerance. I find his pricing to be reasonable for professional photos. He also makes a website for ordering prints, and the grandparents loved being able to see everything. You can learn more and contact him via his website: https://www.jonathandmiller.com/  

  • Before I cautiously enter the world of online dating, I need to upgrade my look a bit.  More than a bit.  I own two lipsticks, and I'm still doing my eye makeup the way I did in college.  How long ago was that?  I'll put it this way: the year after I graduated from college, Richard Nixon resigned from the presidency (one of the happiest days of my life).  After I learn some new ways to look my best, I'd like to have some casual photos taken. They can be done by someone who's skilled with their smart phone. I realize the demographics of BPN trend younger than I am now, but maybe someone's mother has done something similar.  I'm in Oakland, willing to travel within the East Bay or (for makeup tutoring) SF.  Or maybe I should just join a book club...

    When I turned 60 a few years back I had headshots at a photo day here: https://srkheadshotday.com/.  The services came complete with makeup and some clothing options.  I brought my own scarfs which worked nicely.  I had my hair done the day before so that my hair was at its best.  The pricing was very reasonable.  

    For makeup, I like Benefit on 4th street - drop by and make an appointment for a consult session. Benefit makeup is pretty user-friendly (like big fat eye sticks and bronzer you can't mess up) and it's a low-pressure shopping experience. You can have them teach you how to use a few products and update your look. I also like to get my eyebrows and eyelashes tinted there - it's an easy way to look like you have makeup on even when you don't. And as you may have discovered, your eyebrows have a way of disappearing as you get older. Giving them a gentle tint really brings the spark back to your face and makes your eyes pop! Good luck.

    Good on ya for getting out there again. Your post is funny and smart and your personality shines through!  You're going to have a great time!  While I don't have a specific makeup or photographer resource, I wanted to share a couple ideas about the whole "look" thing, especially in the context of photos.  FYI I'm a 64 y/o with similar attitudes about makeup generally:  A great foundation for mature skin is IT Cosmetics (I use Medium Coverage CC+ Nude Glow). It has some truly magical light-reflecting properties that photographs skin incredibly well but are not heavy, so you'll feel natural in it. It's been a complete game changer . Try their Pillow Lips solid serum too if you want to add to your 2-lipstick collection. I get mine at Ulta. Consider going to a new hair stylist and/or updating your glasses frames if you wear them. I've found that getting my eyebrows threaded (just ask for them to be cleaned up) and then have them do a temporary tint adds youthfulness and (dare I say it?) polish.  You could also add one of the "beauty" apps to your phone (like Beauty Plus) for something that softens lines without making you into a Stepford wife. Though I would say I honestly have felt this unnecessary with the discovery of  the foundation :-)  The phone does matter so you might think about what kind of camera your phone has (iPhones, Pixels are good). You'll be using it for more than one photo so it might be worth the investment. Even if you have someone help you with taking photos for your profile, practice taking selfies in different light (different rooms, outdoors, different lighting/placement) and different angles to see what's most flattering for you. It's a weird skill to learn but once you do you'll find it's fun. Good luck, and have fun with this new chapter!

    If you don’t find someone independently for makeup, you can book a free makeover at Sephora (as long as you then buy a certain amount of makeup at the end of the consult). I’ve found the makeup artists are really respectful of the look YOU want and can help you find the right products for your look and teach you how to use them as you get your makeover.

    Your post made me laugh! I'm sure you'll get some responses, but just in case I wanted to share that Sephora stores do makeup lessons and/or just makeup, you can book an appointment! And that way you can buy the products right there if you like them. Good for you - I think it's great and wish you the very best luck finding someone special who appreciates your inner beauty as much as your outer beauty!

     I am an older woman too. I suggest you go the MAC shop on 4th street and get a tutorial on make up, how to apply, what to use etc.

    See if you can make an appt in advance. 
     

    for photos I recommend Kristen Loken ( 510) 601-0321

    good luck! 

Archived Q&A and Reviews


Questions

Photographer for B&W adult portrait

Jan 2016

Although I feel this has been asked recently, the most recent archived reviews are 2011. One of my goals this year is to get in better shape and have classy, b&w portraits done. Perhaps even nude/partially nude (thinking along the lines of the recent Serena Williams Pirelli photo). I'm a woman, but would be comfortable with either gender taking the photos. Thanks for any recommendations! Almost Fit Mama


Margaretta Mitchell is tops in portrait photographer. I hope she can fit you in her schedule. She has taken portraits for my family for years and is amazing at her artistry and expertise! We have been thrilled! She can be reached at www.margarettamitchell.com Leah M


Shoey Sindel is my photographer. She makes me feel comfortable being myself. She captures those moments of me in an authentic way. I enjoy my time with her. And I love my photo!! I get comments on my photo all the time from friends and people who even don't know me that well. Go check her out. She is on Solano. Her number +1 (510) 917-0659. Lan


I love your portrait idea and love the Pirelli angle. I had my professional photo taken by Shoey Sindel of Shoey Sindel photography. We went up to the Berkeley Botanical Gardens and tried out all these really creative locations and poses. Not only does she have a great eye, she is so much fun to work with, great personality and what a gift she had for making me feel really comfortable having my picture taken. I actually think she would be the perfect photographer for your project.  Marie B

Need a candid but professional portrait of me

May 2015

Have you had a positive experience with a portrait photographer who you'd highly recommend? I'm looking for a portrait artist who can take a candid, but professional (not corporate) portrait of me. Thanks! Camera Shy


I recently needed a professional portrait done and had fabulous results using Portraits to the People. Sarah is located in San Francisco, but she does photos both in her studio and in many outdoor locations, and would have come to Berkeley had I asked her to. I strongly recommend her - I finally have a portrait that is flattering and professional, and still looks like what I see in the mirror. Her web site is www.portraitstothepeople.com/ Very satisfied customer


Shoey Sindel is a great photographer with her studio right on Solano Avenue in Berkeley. She did my head-and-shoulders shot for business use ... and she's very personable and easy to work with. This page from her website has a portfolio of business portraits she has created: http://www.shoeysindel.com/business/ Phone (510) 917-0659 or email her at shoey [at] shoeysindel.com David


Cindi Stephan at Two Irises is the perfect photographer for you. She has taken some of the best portraits of me that I've ever had taken. I'm not one for posing in front of the camera, but Cindi is relaxed and makes you feel comfortable. She is able to capture the moment and take a photo that is natural and also incredibly flattering. Check out her portfolio at www.twoirises.com and give her a call 707-527-2486. Kelly


Fernando Aguilar recently photographed our office (10 women, individual headshots and group) and we were very pleased with the results. Comfortable, quick, and professional. check him out. http://www.fernandoaguila.com/ Cathy B


I highly recommend my photographer Shoey Sindel. I hated sitting in front the camera. Yet Shoey made me feel at ease. She didn't take that long to capture some good shots. They are not just nice pictures. You can also see me, the real person, through these portraits. In fact it was fun working with her. Shoey's ph# (510) 917-0659. email: shoey [at] shoeysindel.com Lan


Professional photo for social media portrait

Aug 2014

I need a very good photograph to use on a variety of social media that will advertise my professional business. It will also be used for publications where a photograph is required or requested. While it does need to show me as a professional, I would prefer a more 'casual' and friendly pose and so need someone who is comfortable with this sort of thing. I may also require some modest manipulation of the photograph so need someone who regularly uses photoshop or something like it. anon


Look no further: Stuart Locklear is your person. Stu and Jackie, his makeup artist, are a pleasure to work with and the results were amazing. Stu works mostly with natural light and he will guide you how to pose to get the perfect shot. I'm not sure if he uses photoshop, but I am positive that he 'enhances' the final picture. You can also read the reviews in Yelp. His email is stuphoto [at] sbcglobal.net and his website is http://www.stuartlocklearphotography.com Cristina M


I love Opal from Opal Moments Photography - my husband and I met with her a few months ago to get some professional photographs for social media websites (linked in, etc). We did a fun photo shoot with her with couple photos as well as individual photos in a more professional style. Her rate was extremely reasonable, and she's a lot of fun to work with. We discovered her when we hired her to do our engagement and wedding photos and were looking for a good excuse to work with her again to get some new photos. She gave us a cd of digital photos, and can do some pretty cool photo shop techniques which she just did for the fun of it, so I expect she can help you with what you need. You can also follow her on Facebook to keep an eye out for a special. www.opalmomentsphotography.com love our photographer! KM


Need headshots for my website

Jan 2011

I'm looking for a wonderful, affordable photographer to take headshot photos for my website, sensitiveuniverse.wordpress.com. I'd love to do the shoot outside; the closer to Berkeley, the better. Any recommendations you have would be much appreciated! Eva


I'd like to recommend Shoey Sindel to you. She's a skilled photographer and very personable and good at putting her subject at ease. She's located in Berkeley and goes onsite or offsite for photoshoots. Her website is www.shoeysindel.com. Take a look and see all those beautiful photos. Rosie


I saw your post on Berkeley Parents Network. I recommend Eliot Khuner in Berkeley (510) 524-3569. He has a knack for taking good headshot photos. He knows how to work with outside light, and his relaxed manner helps you to relax and look your best. Look at his website to see samples of his work. http://www.khuner.com/ Just yesterday, a guest at my wedding, where Eliot was the photographer, asked for a copy of the photo of her husband and her. She said it was the best photo they ever had! stu


Robert Shahi of Tiger's Eye Photography does excellent headshots. He did several different types for me and I was extremely pleased with his keen eye. His specialty is natural settings. He can be reached at 510-290-4523. View his website at www.tigersiphoto.com, it's amazing! Rita


Ben Krantz is an excellent headshot photographer, and totally reasonable prices. He does a lot of theatrical headshots and shot my wedding beautifully. Easy to work with, easy to negotiate with. I'd recommend him to anyone. http://www.benkrantz.com/ jessica


Hello, I recently had a headshot taken for my upcoming book's author photo. The photographer I used was Helen Bae, and she was awesome! She met me at a park in El Cerrito and took a bunch of outdoors shots, no muss no fuss, which was exactly what I wanted. I wasn't looking forward to it because I hate having my picture taken but she's so friendly and funny that it ended up being surprisingly enjoyable. And the pictures came out great! Plus, she was quite affordable. You can see my headshot at http://www.thepracticalnapper.com/p/about-author.html, and she has a gallery up at http://helenbaephotography.com/gallery.html. Good luck to you- Jennifer


Photographer who works with make-up artists for headshots

August 2009

Hi, It's been almost 9 years since I had my headshots taken and my agent is urging me to take some new ones. Does anyone have recommendations for professional photographers who specialize in taking head shots for agencies (and who work w/ make-up artists) and can you tell me approximately what they charge? Thanks so much for your help. Jessica


I recommend Jennifer Graham. She was affordable, very warm, fun, and encouraging during the shoot, and took excellent photos. She's b/w Campus and Rockridge. See www.JenniferGrahamPhotograher.com.
ml


I have a great headshot everyone loves. My friend, hairdresser & makeup artist Kathleena Gorga, actually took the photo herself, but says, ''Abigail Huller is the best photographer I work with; she is incredible. Contact info: 707.778.8777, www.abigailhuller.com. The cost depends on how many 'looks' the client wants, starting from around $450. Makeup & hair is $200 more.'' Kathleena Gorga, Conscious Beauty, 510.710.0309. Terry


Need a professional-looking headshot

June 2009

I need to have a head and shoulders photograph taken of me to include in a press pack. I need to look professional, but I want to have some style, too. I've been mostly a SAH mom for some time, so it's been awhile since I've done anything like this. I'm looking for a photographer or studio who can advise on clothing, make-up, etc., as well as take a good photograph. I have looked in the archives, but most of the recommendations there are for more artistic or casual purposes. Can anyone recommend a photographer or studio who works with businesses? anon.


I'd recommend Fernando Aguila (www.fernandoaguila.com). He is a very talented photographer and does all types of photography - artistic, event, family, and corporate. We hired him as our wedding photographer and have since taken some really nice studio portraits with him. He has a great studio in Berkeley. Contact him at photo [at] fernandoaguila.com or 510-502-1566. Laurel


Misti Layne did business shots for us (software company) and she also did a business meeting, along with my husband's more casual shots...she is reasonably well-priced (I think the pros just cost more, but the output is better). She is at www.mistilayne.com The photos are professional, but not 'stuffy'. She doesn't really do makeup, but she is very easy to talk to and brings out the best in everyone. Lehua


I recently had my head shots done by Ann Gordon of Gordon Photography. She is a certified photographer and has won awards for her portraits. And, she made me look thinner, bless her heart! She actually specializes in family and pet photography but I was thrilled by my new head shots. Several friends have now had their's done and she is just as magical with them. She can be reached at (510) 222-4115. Julie


Karle Fried took my head shots as well as some other photographs for my business collateral, she was fantastic. She learned about my business and listened to what I wanted and made it happen. You can reach her at karle [at] karlefried.com or 510-593-8895 Elena


Christina Shook is a fabulous photographer. I needed a head shot for my business and am very happy with her work. My picture is very natural looking and it was taken in her garden. This works very well for my type of work. Christina makes the process very comfortable and she is great at capturing your personality within the photo. You'll see what I mean if you check out her website at www.cshook.com She can be reached at 415.713.9717. She works out of Orinda. happy with my headshot


Photographer for glamour boudoir shots

Jan 2008

Can anyone recommend a photographer for glamour/''tasteful'' boudoir shots? Preferably one who's in the East Bay, who also works with or can recommend a stylist. The recommendations in the archives are several years old. I'd love to hear if anyone has had a good experience doing this. I'm uncomfortable in front of a camera even under the best of circumstances! Oh, and I'm middle-aged, not glamourous and don't usually even wear makeup - but my husband would love a gift like this and I'd like to make an effort. Will need a glass of wine for this


Give Pia Navales-Cook a call (510-387-7927) to get your boudoir photographs taken. I am working on a design project with Pia and she showed me a recent boudoir series she did, and the photos are *gorgeous*! She must have made the subject quite comfortable during the session to get these lovely, natural images. Also, we just had a family portrait photo session with Pia and I thoroughly enjoyed the session and love the results. Jocelyn


Professional portrait needed

August 2006

I would like to have a few pictures of me done by a professional photographer specializing in portraits and close-ups. Would you please post some new recommendations? Thanks Simona


Hi, I have been very pleased with Amy Perl's services. I heard about her from Crackerjack's baby store (also fabulous!) on Piedmont Avenue and had her do a home session for my 6 month old son. She is wonderfully creative and her personality is a hoot. I really enjoyed working with her, rates are quite reasonable Megan


We used Eliot Khuner as our photographer. He has a way of relaxing everyone, works well with children, and the quality is excellent. (510) 524-3569 www.ekphoto.com Stu S


I would like to recommend Dennis Galloway for folks looking for a truly talented portrait photographer. His services seem underpriced for the quality of his work. Dennis is a very dependable, ethical, honorable, kind and gentle soul. Contact him via email: dennis[at]dennisgalloway.com or by phone: (925) 969-1140. Nancy


Pat Boyd is an EXCELLENT photographer. She is detail oriented and is truly passionate about her work. Pat is easy to work with and her rates are reasonable. I've recommended her to a bunch of my friends and poeple I know and all the feedback has been nothing but positive and wonderful. We are actually going back for another photo shoot with her in November! This is her contact information: www.patboydphotography.com pat[at]patboydphotography.com If you need more info, you can also shoot me an email and I'd be happy to talk to you more about her. P.S. She also does Pet portraits! tetandjeremy


I'd like to recommend Adina Meastas, I was so impressed with her work! She first photographed myself pregnant then photographed my newborn and older daughter together, in one word ''WOW''! She is an extremely gifted photographer, our only dilemma was narrowing down our images to our favorites because we truly loved all of them! She made us all feel very comfortable and just made the whole experience special. Her info: www.photographyam.com, photography by Adina Meastas


Photo for internet dating sites

Jan 2004

I am interested in posting a profile with a picture on one of the Internet dating sites. I have not had good luck having friends take a picture of me with which I am satisfied. So I am thinking of having something professionally done. Does anyone have any recommendations of someone who could do this? The picture would be really for the purpose of placing it on the Internet site, so I don't want multiple film portraits, and I am interested in keeping the cost down. Any recommendations would be appreciated.


There is a photo studio on the ground floor of Sun Valley mall next to the steak sandwich place that will do 3 or 5 poses for you to chose from for $12.95. I can't remember the name of it but it was not Picture People. Patty


If you have a regular film camera, get your prints developed at Long's and get either the pictures on disk, or on the web (although I HATE Fujifilms user interface) for the same price as double prints. You don't need super high resolution for this purpose (screens are only 75 dots per inch!), nor a posed, formal head shot. A picture showing you doing something you love, having fun, will draw better than something that looks like it belongs in a third-rate actor's portfolio. Been There, Done That


Nude photo of me for my husband's birthday

Sept 2003

My husband revealed to me that there was nothing he'd like better for his birthday than a nude photo of me (nothing showy or tasteless, but arty, in black and white, with no ''parts'' showing, just something provocative). Well, I don't even know where to begin to look for someone to do this! This will be a difficult thing for me to do, as I am fairly modest, and I would only be comfortable doing this for a female photographer. Please don't suggest having a friend do it; as much as I would like to, I don't know anyone with good photo skills. Any ideas??? anon


Jen Molander specializes in artistic, tasteful images of women nude. Her 'bare truth' porfolio of natural and compelling images can be seen at http://www.jenmolander.com/baretruth.html . Angela


There's an AWESOME photographer in San Anselmo named Jeanette, who did similar pix for me many years ago. She's not as good with ''public pictures'' (like weddings) in my opinion, but her ''private pictures'' were tasteful, sexy, and artistic - not just in my case, but throughout her portfolio. If nobody else happens to know her, I can try to find her last name for you. Email if so. Kathleen


Limor Inbar Hansen took some beautiful photos for my website (not nudes!) She is very easy and comfortable to work with. Her own website shows many portraits. www.indelible-images.com bscadeng


I'd like to recommend a fellow photographer to you. As a male photographer I completely understand your interest in a female photographer for this purpose. While I photograph children and families I usually refer women who want maternity shots to female photographers for the same reason. Laura Turbow does excellent work and I'm confident she could help you feel comfortable. You can view her work here: http://www.ltphoto.com/ Look under portraits for sample pictures. She is based in El Cerrito but will do work at your home. If it turns out she is too busy, let me know and I can refer others - she's just the top choice in my book. Jonathan Payne


When I was pregnant I had a photoshoot with Jen Molander. She takes black and white, artsy photos. On her website (www.jenmolander.com), look under Bare Truth for an example of her nude photography. SHe was very easy to work with and made me feel totally comfortable. Anita


a wonderful photographer friend has a website you can visit to see her work. some stuff is ''experimental'' yet beautiful. one particular photo came to mind after reading your request of a black n white shot of pregnant woman that is quite lovely. she does 35mm, digital, color and b go to: photosbyalyssa[at]yahoo.com


Contact my friend and EXCELLENT photographer, Anna Myers. Her website is www.digitalmecca.net She is very friendly and professional plus she does amazing work. You won't be sorry. On her website there is a contact page with her phone number and email address. Tell her Jessica sent you. Jessica


I would look no further than patricia kingsley (www.patriciakingsley.com). Very good, very tasteful, very good. She does B/W well and is a female. pvgdad


Hi. I highly recommend Jen Molander. She does various kinds of photography and one of them is a series called ''Bare Truth.'' They are sensitive, tasteful, stunning nude portraits of women in natural settings. Her website, where you can see samples of this work, is http://www.jenmolander.com She also took all of the photos for my web site which is http://www. cometoyoursensesevents.com Good luck! Best, Sondra


We had very classy nude and semi-nude b/w and color photos taken by Debra Seal when I was 8 months pregnant. We were VERY happy with the session, the photographer, and the photos. Her style for the nudes and semi-nudes is artsy, dreamy, classic. Her knowledge of lighting, timing, and exposure are exceptional. And she is very easy to work with, coming in with her own expertise but willing to work with your ideas too. I thought her prices were good - and we looked around a lot. She even did some great photos that included both myself and my husband. Now she specializes in babies, children, family, and maternity photos but she may be willing to do a similar style to her maternity photos even if your not expecting. I don't think she would do more of a boudoir type session but it's worth asking if that's what you're thinking-if not she may have a recommendation. The best thing about her sessions (especially for the shy) are that they take place in your home but look like you went to a studio. You can see some of her work at Debraseal.com and there is a mostly clothed example of our photo shoot in the maternity section. It's the b/w one of the man and very pregnant woman with the very long hair. Good luck. S.W.