K.I.S.S.
Keep It Simple Stupid
Sorry, I’m not calling you stupid. It was a phrase my art professors used in college. K.I.S.S. This couldn’t be more important when organizing your website, social media, and exclusive content. There are so many things a business can offer and talk about that potential clients can get lost in the sauce.
The K.I.S.S. version of this blog
Stick to posting about one niche. Make sure your site is super user friendly and there is always a way clients can contact you.
the long-winded,hyper EXPLAINED version
Consistent Voice
Lets use Nike for this point. They have a consistent voice. Everything is about sports. When you make a website, know your voice and be consistent. Nike doesn’t dip into politics or comedy. They stick to sports. Say the same thing on your website that you say on your social media. Say the same thing on Twitter that you say on Threads. Have the same voice you have on TikTok that you have on Instagram. You never know where your next client will come from.
Ease of use
Your website is where potential clients will be directed when they run a Google Search. This is where implementing K.I.S.S. will help the most. Keep your website as simple as possible. Treat your website visitors like a teenager with ADHD. Keep they’re attention by getting to the point immediately. Who are you? What do you do? This is how you can be contacted. Try to go with a minimalist layout. Less is more.
Put it all together
Having a clear voice means the client knows exactly what you’re offering. An easy to use website will keep the client engaged. The minute you lose the client’s attention by posting about something that has nothing to do with what you’re selling or there is too much text, bells, and whistles; the client moves on to the next site or post.
See the difference?
Headshots in Action
Elevate Your Personal Brand with Custom Headshot Business Cards
In today's competitive business landscape, making a strong first impression is crucial. One way to stand out from the crowd and showcase your professionalism is by investing in custom headshot business cards. Here are some key benefits of using headshot business cards to elevate your personal brand:
Memorable First Impression
A well-designed business card with a high-quality, professional headshot makes a lasting impression on potential clients, partners, and colleagues. Your headshot showcases your personality and professionalism, while the card itself demonstrates your attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Establish Credibility and Trust
Investing in custom headshot business cards communicates your dedication to your personal brand and your field of work. This attention to detail helps establish credibility and trust with potential clients and partners, who will feel confident in your ability to deliver exceptional results.
Effective Networking Tool
Having a stack of custom headshot business cards on hand makes it easy to exchange contact information and connect with others at events, conferences, and meetings. Your professional headshot will help new connections remember you and your brand, making it more likely they'll reach out when they need your services.
If you're ready to take your personal brand to the next level, consider investing in custom headshot business cards. I will work closely with you to capture the perfect headshot and design a card that reflects your unique style and brand. Contact me today to get started!
Boost Your Business with Professional Headshots & Product Photography
Boost Your Business with Professional Headshots & Product Photography
In today’s highly competitive market, making a great first impression is crucial to the success of your business. One effective way to achieve this is by investing in professional headshots and product photography. In this blog post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of using high-quality images to showcase your brand and products.
Professional Headshots: Putting a Face to Your Brand
Professional headshots are an excellent way to introduce yourself and your team to potential clients and partners. These images reflect the personality and professionalism of your business, and here are some of the key benefits:
Build trust and credibility: A polished and well-presented headshot conveys the message that you’re an expert in your field, making it easier for clients to trust and invest in your products or services.
Enhance your brand image: Consistent, high-quality headshots across your team create a cohesive and visually appealing brand image that sets you apart from the competition.
Boost engagement on social media: Adding a professional headshot to your social media profiles humanizes your brand and encourages people to engage with your content, fostering valuable connections with your audience.
Product Photography: Showcasing Your Offerings
In the age of online shopping, high-quality product photography is a powerful tool to attract customers and boost sales. Here’s how professional product photos can make a difference:
Boost your conversion rate: High-quality images that accurately represent your products can influence purchasing decisions and increase your conversion rate.
Reduce product returns: Detailed and accurate images help customers make informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of returns and improving customer satisfaction.
Strengthen your brand identity: Consistent and visually appealing product photography reinforces your brand’s style and aesthetic, creating a memorable impression on potential customers.
Investing in Professional Photography: A Smart Business Move
Professional headshots and product photography are essential components of a successful branding strategy. By investing in high-quality images, you can showcase your business in the best possible light, build trust with potential clients, and ultimately increase your bottom line.
To take your business to the next level, consider partnering with GR Design & Photography for professional headshots and product photography services. Our experienced team specializes in creating stunning images that highlight the unique strengths of your brand. Contact us today to get started!
Branding FAQ
Branding FAQs
Branding photography is the images used to represent your business. It showcases your product’s quality, your team’s approachability, and your professionalism through elements such as headshots and well-designed logos. This is made with product photography, headshot photography, lifestyle photography, and graphic design. Here are a few frequently asked questions when it comes to branding.
What makes a GR Design & Photography branding session different?
Branding photographers will get your business amazing photography to put on your website. A graphic designer can make a great logo, brochures, and set up advertisements for your marketing. I can do both. There is no need to search for multiple vendors when one will suffice.
Where do I start?
So you’re a new business but aren’t sure where to get started, or you’re an established business but don’t know how to revamp your look. I can guide you through multiple options the average business needs. From something as small as a business card to something as big as setting up ads for billboards, magazines, and websites.
What are some of the things included in branding sessions?
Some things include in branding sessions are as follows: Headshot, corporate half/full day sessions, product photography, bts or lifestyle photography, and graphic design. Graphic design elements include: logos, advertising design, brochures with pricing or business info, and more.
In conclusion…
Branding photography and design can raise the value of your business. If you have a great service based business but no images of you in action, you’re missing opportunities to connect with clients. If you have a remarkable product, but have cellphone images poorly displayed on your website then potential customers will click back on Google search and find something that does look professional. Quality photography and well executed graphic design can lead to more leads. More leads can snowball into more sales and that is everyone’s goal in business.
Click for a branding consult. We can discuss your business needs.
Maternity Photo FAQ
Your pregnancy is a very important, emotional part of your life. You’re only pregnant with this baby once. If you want to cherish those memories with a maternity photographer here are some FAQ so you can get the best time during your session and images from that session possible.
Where do you start?
Shop around. Look at photographers’ websites. Their gallery should have many examples of maternity. The more different examples of pregnant bellies, the more experience. The more experience a photographer has, the better your session will be. Talk to your potential photog. The vibe you get over the phone (YES TALK ON THE PHONE) is an indication of the vibe you will get in person. Do they know your questions before you ask? Do they have locations at the ready? Are they confident with the price they give you?
What to Wear?
Some photographers provide maternity dresses. If you need to provide your own, you can find the dress you want from $30 up to $200 for a moderately priced dress. Extravagant dresses can go from $300- thousands. My recommendation as a photographer is to get something that hugs the belly. We want it to be painfully obvious that this portrait session is about the belly. When the dress doesn’t hug the belly, you tend to look like you’re in a pretty dress that is loose.
When to photograph?
When should you photograph your maternity session? Two things determine when you should photograph your session: how big your belly is and how mobile you still are. Every pregnancy is different. You might be 6 months and look like you’re having twins. In my experience, the end of 7m- the beginning of 8m is where you show the most and are still comfortable getting around. I do not recommend booking close to 9m. There is always a chance you deliver early.
Post Session Etiquette
Post Session Etiquette
I went over what to do when you are hunting for a photographer and what to do during your session. Now your session is done and you want you pictures. Here are some dos and don’ts while you wait for them.
Be Patient
Please don’t text your photographer an hour after the session asking if your pictures are done yet. Photographers will tell you ahead of time what their turn around time is. I say two weeks and deliver in a few days. My process is you get a gallery and pick your favorites. I edit them in Photoshop and deliver them to you. Workflow varies photographer to photographers. Ask if they don’t tell you ahead of time.
You’re Not Getting the Raws
Click here to see a film negative. You wouldn’t ask a photographer for their film negative. The RAW file is the equivalent. It is also what comes straight out of the camera. It has all the blemishes and eyesores in the picture that was taken. The photographer edits all that out. This is the simple answer. The intricate answer has to do with copyright, owning the image, and a bunch of legal jargon.
Filters are a Slap In the Face
I thought this went without saying but I have heard horror stories so now I’m saying it. Don’t put filters on your final images. You paid a lot of money for that photographer’s creativity and editing style. No filter looks good and it makes the photographer’s work look bad. It has gotten so bad, we put it in our contracts. No filter and logo must be visible. It’s like going to Ruth Chris Steakhouse and throwing ranch on a porterhouse steak.
The benefits of doing the things I said in Photographer Hunting Etiquette, Photography Session Etiquette, and this blog will foster a great relationship with your photographer. Don’t be surprised if you start receiving emails with deals and appreciation gifts in the mail. Don’t do these things and you might not have your emails or phone calls answered.
Photography Session Etiquette
Photo Session Etiquette
(2/3)
In Photographer Hunting Etiquette I went over what to do when picking a photographer. This blog will go over once you have decided on a photographer. It doesn’t take much to have a successful session. Here are my three suggestions:
Lock It In
Any decent photographer is going to have a contract and a booking fee. Read it, ask questions, and pay the fee. This ensures the date in question is yours. If anyone else is inquiring about that day it will be first come, first serve. Nothing personal to you the client, but photographers have been stood up or ghosted by potential clients. A booking fee ensures you are serious about the session.
Ask Questions
There is nothing wrong with asking your photographers all the questions. A good photographer will already have ways to prep you for the session. If they don’t, here are some questions you may want to ask: what to wear, where can we photograph, what can I bribe my children with for a good session? It is better to be fully prepared than to go into your session wondering, “did I pick the right dress?”
Stick to the Schedule
If you are photographing in a studio or on location for a holiday session, be on time. Photographers often book more than one session a day. For holiday sessions on a Christmas tree farm or a park that requires a permit, there is a time limit. If a photographer books 8 sessions at 20 minute increments, your session is either going to be pushed to the back of the line or you won’t get the full 20 minutes.
If you are wondering why certain photographers are a higher price points, it is because they inform you of these types of issues. They let you know everything to expect so there are no surprises during or after your session. If you do end up with an inexperienced photographers, don’t be shy, ask the tough questions. If you liked these 2 etiquette blogs, check back for part three. I’ll go over post session etiquette.
Photographer Hunting Etiquette
Photographer Hunting Etiquette
(1/3)
If you are in need of a photographer here are some tips on etiquette to get the most enjoyable experience out of the photographer you end up choosing.
Don’t leave us hanging
Don’t leave us hanging. It’s fine to shop around. I recommend it. When you decide on a photographer after talking with multiple photographers, let the rest know you won’t be working with them. Put the others out of their misery so they don’t have to hold that date you inquired about. This is important for wedding date and portraits where the photographer has fifteen, twenty, or thirty minute time slots.
Not a Bazaar
We are not in a bazaar in Belarus. Please do not haggle over the pricing a photographer offers. I’ll let you behind the curtain for a minute. Photographers have expenses, especially if they have a studio they work out of. The only thing, in my opinion, you should ask is if paying cash drops the tax. No photographer wants to drop their price but the less experienced photogs will out of fear of losing the client.
Pick One
If you are having a wedding or an event at a large venue and feel you need more than one photographer, don’t hire two separate photographers. Pick a photographer you like and tell them you would like a second shooter. Nine times out of ten, that photographer has a pool of photographer friends who get along and photograph similarly. It will be more cost effective also since all 2nd shooters give their images to the main shooter to edit. Two separate photographers not working together are charging you full price since they are handling the session as if they were by themselves.
If you found this beneficial, click here for PART 2 During the Session
What Makes an Effective Logo?
What Makes an Effective Logo?
A well-designed logo not only visually represents a brand but also communicates its essence to the viewers. An effective logo is a powerful tool that can instantly grab attention, create a memorable impression, and establish a strong identity for a business or organization. So, what are the key elements that make a logo truly effective?
Simplicity & Memorability
The first and foremost characteristic of a successful logo is simplicity. A clean and uncluttered design allows for easy recognition and makes a logo memorable. A simple logo is versatile and can be easily reproduced across different mediums and sizes without losing its impact. Think of iconic logos like Nike's swoosh or Apple's bitten apple logo; their simplicity is what makes them instantly recognizable worldwide.
Reflecting the Brand's Identity
An effective logo should capture the essence of the brand it represents. It should visually communicate the organization's mission, values, and characteristics. The color palette, typography, and visual elements used in the logo should align with the brand's personality. For example, a fast-food chain might choose bold and vibrant colors with a playful font to convey a sense of energy and fun. The logo should create an emotional connection with the audience and leave a lasting impression of what the brand stands for.
Versatility & Timelessness
An effective logo should be versatile and adaptable to various applications. Whether it's being used on a website, a billboard, or a business card, a logo should remain impactful in different sizes and formats. Additionally, a logo should strive for timelessness. While trends come and go, a logo should aim to be relevant and visually appealing for years to come. A logo that stands the test of time helps to build brand recognition and instills trust and loyalty among consumers.
In conclusion, simplicity, memorability, reflectiveness of the brand's identity, versatility, and timelessness are the key factors that make a logo truly effective. A successful logo represents a brand at a glance, leaving a lasting impression while telling a coherent story. By carefully considering these elements, businesses and organizations can create logos that captivate audiences and build strong brand identities.
Need a Logo?
Graphic Design & Photography
Benefits of a Jack of All Trades Artist.
The quote most of us have heard is, “A Jack of all trades is a master of none.” I am guilty of thinking this was the entire quote just like you probably did. The full quote is, “A Jack of all trades is a master of none, but often times better than a master of one.”
Learning the full quote set me at ease. Society tells you niche down and pick one thing to focus your business on. I graduated college with a major in graphic design and a minor in photography. I felt, deep in my soul, I needed to do both in my business. If you pay attention to what clients want, it is easy to merge graphic design in a photography business.
As a portrait photographer I started integrating graphic design into my photography by designing custom holiday cards for my clients. As I have shifted into branding for businesses, my skill set has shown to be invaluable. Clients are delighted when they realize I am all they need for logo design, menu design, headshots, product photography, and bts photography.
This is the benefit of a jack of all trades artist. Stop letting the masses say an artist cannot be great at multiple things. I understand wanting a niche photographer for a wedding but branding is a much more creative area to work with. It is much more beneficial to work with one person good enough to make your logo, photography your product, and extract the most confident version of you for your business.
Telling a Story with Photography
Photography for most is just taking out a cell phone, capturing a cute image, and leaving it on your phone until you get a new phone and never see that image ever again. I’m guessing you’re clicking on my page because you want something more. I can definitely help you with that.
Lets start with the easiest, most beautiful journey you will ever take, CHILDBIRTH. This is my favorite story to tell. I know how beautiful this story is because the next group of photos are of my family. Freezing these moments and mounting them on a wall will take you back to the way you felt when you were taking that journey. Lets do it the right way.
For my corporate followers, you can tell a story too. Professionalism! It’s a simple story to tell, but it is also a very important one. Headshots are your clients’ first impression of you. Professional, uniform, and charismatic makes for a great first impression.
Whether you would like more information or you are ready to book, click on the button below.
Last Minute Event I Didn't Regret
Last Minute Event I Didn’t Regret
There was a man who went on Facebook looking for a photographer to photograph an event. A friend recommended me and since my friend and this man worked in the same circles and were well acquainted, the man took the recommendation seriously. I get booked. I show up to this last minute gig and immediately love the location, Alto in Montclair, NJ. I always touch base and ask who the VIPs might be so make my clients happy. To my surprise he says, “Make sure you get a bunch of shots of Frankie Fasion and Chad Coleman.”
If you don’t know, they are both from The Wire. Fasion was also the landlord in Coming To America. Chad Coleman played Tyresse in The Walking Dead seasons 3-5. I loved all three so I’ll admit, I was a little star struck when I was on an elevator with both of them.
Newborns: Behind the Curtain
For those that are expecting or those thinking about photographing newborns, there is a lot that goes on to get “the shot.” Trust me. I get enough of “those shots” to fill an album. I have to. Its part of my newborn package.
I’ll skip what I bring to my shoots since I covered that already but if you’re new CLICK HERE TO SEE WHAT I BRING
Invest in photoshop
I’ve invested lots of time into mastering Photoshop so what looks like a dangerous actually isn’t. SAFETY FIRST. The amount of time it takes to stitch these images together and the time to pose the baby.
It is inevitable
Babies go where babies want to go. And yes, the diaper was on (not closed but covering). Consider it a right of passage. If you’re a photographer, this is what christens you as a newborn photographer. If you’re a parent, it means your baby approves of me.
Yes thats a bottle opener on my phone. No judging.
Blessings
I have it in my contract that I am allowed to use the images however I want (marketing & posting). Regardless of this, I make sure it’s ok with the parent if I post to social media. There are some weirdos out there. Out in the world, not parents… well sometimes parents.
Get in There
Parents trust me with their newborns so I can trust them with my camera. I know how to get the look I need in the shot so I set everything, tell the parent where to stand, and what button to press. ” Poof” beautiful shot and safe baby.
A great graduation gift.
If you have a question you can ask in the comment section.
My Friend Has a Camera
Please let me save you from yourself!
There have quite a few times through the years that I had to hear those dreaded words no photographer likes to hear, “I have a friend with a camera.” I simultaneously want to laugh and scream. I understand saving a few dollars, I really do. Talk to a photographer. There are some that will work with you.
There are times where people don’t see the value in spending the money and go with the friend with the camera. 9 times out of 10, this is what I end up seeing: Awkward posing, extra chins, bad effects added, red eyes, and all around creepy photos that hurt your business.
Would you trust your 401K or investment portfolio with the people on the left or right (top or bottom if you’re on your phone)? Today’s website experience is over saturated and 1st impressions are everything. The average person doesn’t stay on a website for more than 5 seconds. The photos on your page represent your product or service.
Can you trust something that important to a friend with a camera?
Don’t go with the friend with the camera
They don’t know how to pose, light, or flatter you. Photographers know how to relax you for a genuine smile. We know feminine, masculine, and power poses. Did you know that the way you feel will come through in your photos?
I doubt your friend is proficient in Photoshop. Most photographers know how to edit. The wrinkles, pimples, and stains will be gone from you image.
A photographer is putting their client first. You are paying for great service and amazing images while your friend is doing you a favor. If your friend is doing you a favor, they will get to the pictures when they get to the pictures.
2023 Cherry Blossoms
2023 Cherry Blossoms
Did you know that cherry blossoms are edible or that in Washington DC it’s illegal to break off a blossom? More importantly cherry blossoms have a very short lifespan which is usually 1-2 weeks. MOST importantly cherry blossoms are not only in Japan or DC, there are 2 locations in Northern New Jersey and they photograph beautifully.
More cherry blossom facts: Cherry blossoms are a sign of friendship between Japan and the U.S. The cherry blossom capitol of the world isn’t Japan. It actually is in Georgia. U.S. locations where you can see cherry blossoms include Dallas, Portland, San Francisco, LA, Brooklyn, Washington DC, Philidelphia, Boston, and TWO LOCATIONS IN NORTH JERSEY… and they photograph beautifully.
Verona Park Cherry Blossoms
Branch Brook Park Cherry Blossoms
Valentine's Minis for Singles
Four Must Have Images
If you are single and surfing dating apps for a Valentine, Insider Magazine states these are 4 must have images for your profile.
The classic headshot. This image is from your chest up and you look directly into the camera. Smile and show that confidence. If someone likes what they see then they will swipe through your pictures to the next image which will be…
The full body shot. This is your time to flaunt your favorite parts of your body. Show off those long legs or toned arms. Don’t assume your body type isn’t desired. Show off that confidence.
A lifestyle image. Show off your hobby. What is your favorite thing to do? Books, brunches, or bungee jumping; show it.
Make magic. The article stated that 4 is just the magic number for the amount of images to have so have fun with it. Take another headshot but laughing or another full body in that sexy dress you love.
If you want to make a great first impression on any of those dating apps you are on lets book a session. 14% off for a Valentine’s Day mini (15min) or regular (30min) session.
I Want to Quit My Job!
Don’t get me wrong, I love teaching but photographing an entire office’s headshots was a dream come true. If I can photograph two businesses a week and one newborn a week, I would be in heaven. If you know a business in need of headshots, please send them my way.
These are just a few of the professionals I had the honor of photographing at Capital One. There are always a few camera shy people who decline having their images shared.
Teaching Moment to Photographer Friends
I like to be efficient. I’m always kind and professional. I give clear directions so there is no need to touch my subject. Most importantly, make them laugh. Lets start with why you should make them laugh. Not everyone is comfortable in front of a lens. I personally HATE it. Making them laugh relaxes them. Pair that with being kind and professional and you’ll leave a great mark. I treat it like an assembly line so the day is organized and everyone in the office has the same type of images. My process was a few variations standing, a few variations sitting on a tall stool, a few sitting in a regular chair, and one creative one. This session was in NYC so buildings in the background was a must. One extra thing I like to do is get everyone’s name in the order I shot them. Renaming your files will make you look amazing because you’re making distribution much easier. This is easy in Lightroom (for example: capital_one_ bob_1).
Click on the gallery below to see the images close up.
Always available
What is Branding?
What is Branding?
Branding is the process of creating a distinct identity for a business in the mind of your target audience and consumers. At the the most basic level, branding is made up of a company's logo, visual design, mission, and tone of voice. The end of the year is a perfect time to rebrand your busniess. Luckly with GR Design & Photography all the things I listed for rebranding can be done with me.
The Madelyn is a restaurant in NYC I worked with. They needed an identity. A logo fit for a high end fusion restaurant. This went on their website, menus, marketing, and vinyl lettering for their glass storefront. Photography for the website was also needed and they appreciated that they were able to get all these services from one vendor. How did I do?
J’adore Fashion is a clothing brand. I was asked to make the logo fun and classy. We used 3 models to photograph their inventory which also was fun and classy. What does this brand, as a whole, say to you?
Extended Sessions
Is an extended session right for you?
While a regular session “gets the job done” those who want to take a deep dive into an amazing photo session might want to look into extended sessions. Here’s why:
More time means no rushing. We can take our time without looking at the clock.
Different locations to photograph at. If you’re looking for variety in your final images, photographing in different locations is a great way to achieve that goal.
Different clothing to wear. This, in combination with different locations, will give you a session you will never forget.
Dos and Donts for your next portrait session
Dos and Don’ts for Your Portrait Sessions
First off, your photographer should be telling you this because you are hiring an experienced professional… right? Well if they don’t, here are a few things you need to know for your next portrait session:
Don’t get hammered the night before! We all like to party and theres nothing wrong with that. Just remember what you look like the morning after. Not all photographers can photoshop bags under your eyes.
Stay away from huge logos and overly busy patterns. Styles change and you don’t want a FUBU shirt in your mounted family portrait.
Don’t overdue the makeup. Less is more. Your best bet is to hire a makeup artist. They know how to style you for flash photography.
Iron and coordinate your with others that are in the shoot. I love matching fathers and sons wearing linen and a white button down on the beach or matching mothers and daughts wearing matching sweaters in the fall.
Last and most importaintly, PRINT IT OUT. Get it hung on your wall to look at and love every day. There’s no point in leaving it on you usb and losing that or keeping it on your computer and it crashing.