Photographing someone with Dementia or Alzheimers Disease
You know how there are some people who come into your life - who just make you want to be a better person? Well I’ve been blessed by meeting many many people like that. I’ve had many sessions with many over the course of 20 years but there are a few that really stand out in my memory and that changed me.
There was one session of a woman and her mom who had the advanced stages of dementia. We had the session at the beautiful woman’s nursing home and what happened felt nothing short of a miracle. Throughout the session the Mom was very happy and we all had cheerful banter back and forth. However, she was not aware of the daughter right next to her. Until, this one flash moment, when the Mom looked over to her daughter and said - I love you. I see you. I know you daughter.
Did you just have to grab a tissue. Well let me tell you, I am a crier and I did everything I could to keep it together. Until I got back to my car. And then I fell apart. It was amazing to experience such a moment. A true gift. And yes, I captured that shot and you can see it here below.
So fast forward a few years and we were trying to schedule a personal branding headshot session for the daughter during one of my visits back to Connecticut. But thanks to COVID, that was not to be this year.
I received an email from her that said she wanted to pay it forward and wanted me to use the monies from her planned session for someone else. Again, I meet so many people so how could I decide on how to choose what to do with this woman’s precious money.
So I prayed. And I woke up one morning and knew exactly what I wanted to do with it. I wanted to offer up holiday family photos for the women and children at Shepherd’s Gate. And she agreed! Nothing felt so right to me once the planning began.
This past Saturday we did just that. It was a beautiful experience and I’m honored to share my gifts and my generous client’s funds to be able to give these women and children memories that they will cherish forever.
This holiday season, I ask you to listen to how you can help others with your time and your gifts. So many are struggling in many different ways. Not just money. Not just health. Not just loneliness. Everyone can do something to help someone else. And it doesn’t cost a dime.
On a side note, this woman has also created such a fun idea and activity to do with family (even on zoom!) It’s called Caring Cards. "Bridging generations through conversations" isn't just our tag line! It's our mission.
Caring Cards® help bridge generations by providing over 50 thought provoking questions that open meaningful conversations. They are comprised of a wide range of topics suitable for all ages and stages of life.
These conversation cards were carefully designed and tested to make it easy to explore memories, wisdom and personal histories with family and friends.
Although Caring Cards were originally designed to engage someone with dementia, they have quickly been embraced by anyone seeking to promote meaningful connection especially with aging loved ones.
Children and teens in particular may struggle with or avoid spending time with elders. Caring Cards help generations find common ground through the sharing of oral histories which strengthens the relationship and deepens the bond.
Caring Cards make a thoughtful and lasting gift for family and friends. Their convenient packaging is perfect for tucking into your purse, pocket or car so they're always handy!
In addition, home health care agencies, skilled nursing and assisted livings communities, youth and support groups and even financial advisors are a few of the many who offer Caring Cards to caregivers and their families as a useful and appreciated tool.
More than a headshot?
Hopefully you love your logo — and that new website. Your logo and your website are just two parts of your visual branding package. You just might be missing a KEY element needed to communicate with that dream client.
What are Brand Photos? Brand Photos are images that you use to represent your brand and business.
Headshots are the most basic type of brand photos — at the very least, every entrepreneur or small business team, needs a great headshot to represent the “face of the company.” Good branding is going to help build trust with potential clients — and a quality headshot is like a friendly “hello.”
Brand Portraits take headshots to the next level. They are more casual images that feature you in a ‘behind the scenes’ point of view.
What do you do with said Brand Photos?
So, we’ve talked about what brand photos are. Here’s how (and where) you’re actually going to use them: Definitely on your website.
This is obvious, but you should start with your website. This is very likely, one of the first places people will "see" you.
Great design, great photography will help you stand out from your competition.
Are you often unsure what to post on social media?
Wouldn’t it be great to have a library of your own branded images?
That’s what you get with brand photos.
Most selfies leave something left to be desired. Next time #fridayintroductions rolls around, you could have a full gallery of brand portraits to choose from. And you'll look like a pro. That will give you confidence — and when you feel confident you can share your gifts with grace and ease.
Have a big announcement coming up? How about that blog post? Posts with images always get more traction. And if you're looking to post on Pinterest you HAVE to have a quality photo to post with the link to your site.
Visual consistency is key to a polished and professional feed. This helps followers and potential clients know what to expect from you. When expectations are met consistently, you build trust.
Here’s a short list of all the ways and places to use your Brand Photography:
Your Website
Your Facebook Page
Your Instagram Profile
Pinterest Posts
LinkedIn Profile
Pricing guide
Client welcome guide
Brand style guide
Guest blog posts
Guest post bio
Speaking engagement bio
Professional bio
Promo videos
Printed advertising
Printed marketing pieces
Facebook and Instagram Ads
So now that you know what they are and why you need them, are you ready to get started creating your own Brand Photos?
Contact me today to get more info about headshots, brand portraits, and custom styled stock photography.
Professional Ballet Portraits
I don’t think I’ve ever been the presence of such beauty and grace as they young ladies. This was an experimental photoshoot and I really enjoyed experimenting with the many lighting techniques I’ve learned over the years. These photos were taken for a special gallery showing. Here's just one of my favorites from many of the portraits.
Before you hire a photographer do this!
Brand Strategy. What is it? If you are working on your personal brand - then you need to do a little homework. In fact, before we even do your Personal Brand photoshoot, you’ll have to complete a Brand Strategy questionnaire. And unlike algebra homework, my clients tell me they loved the process. It’s is a great way to get clear on your brand and your message and THIS is how you will stand out from your competition! Here’s the key component, so let’s get started:
START WITH YOUR WHY - What’s this all about? Well, when you have a deeper sense of your purpose, your message will resonate with more people. To help you really define your why, here are some questions to think about:
What would you do even if you didn’t get paid to do it?
Who inspires you most?
If you had a year to live, what would you do?
What did you love to do when you were 10 years old?
What would you regret NOT doing in your life?
What makes you smile?
What makes you angry?
What do other people ask you for help with?
What are you naturally good at doing?
What are the challenges you’ve overcome?
What causes do you strongly believe in?
If you could get just one message across to a larger group of people, what would you say?
Before you launch that new website, print that new brochure or book a speaking gig, you want to get clear on what you want to be known for. That way, the clients you attract are strategic.
Check out my Book: OWN IT: A Step-by-Step Guide to Developing Your Personal Brand for some helpful tips and exercises on how to get CLEAR on your WHY.
Tri-Valley Job Fair Headshot Event
It was such a rewarding experience to provide complimentary headshots to over 75 people at the Tri-Valley Job Fair at the Tri-Valley Career Center in Pleasanton. They all left with a fresh, professional headshot to give them a head start on their job search.
This event had over 50 businesses represented and was sponsored by the Livermore Chamber of Commerce, San Ramon Chamber of Commerce, Dublin Chamber of Commerce, Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce and Danville Chamber of Commerce.
I’m deeply thankful to my clients, whose support allows me to give back by sharing my time and skills with those in need.And to my patient and tireless assistant that helped get everyone checked in and camera-ready!
The Pitfalls of AI Headshots
We’ve all seen the rise of AI-generated headshots—just upload a selfie, and voila! You’ve got a “professional” headshot. But are these quick fixes really giving catching the “right” attention from the viewer?
Don’t fall into the AI trap. Why is investing in a real, authentic headshot is worth it?
1. The Temptation of the 'Quick Fix'
AI headshots often appeal to those who are short on time or looking for a cheaper option. It might seem like a great solution for those who aren’t ready to invest in themselves or may not understand the value of a professionally crafted headshot.
2. Who Falls for an AI Headshot?
New Professionals: People just starting their careers, not yet understanding how crucial personal branding is.
Cost-Savvy Entrepreneurs: Small business owners trying to save money, even if it means cutting corners on their client-facing image.
Tech Enthusiasts: Those who love to try the latest tech trends without considering if it’s the right fit for them.
Quick Fix Seekers: People who want something fast, thinking it’ll do the job—until they see the results!
3. The Problem with AI Headshots
AI-generated headshots can look generic, overly retouched, and often fail to convey the warmth, personality, and approachability that a real headshot does. You’re essentially left with an image that looks more like a 3D avatar than your true self.
4. Why a Professional Headshot is the Way to Go
Personal Connection: A good headshot isn’t just a picture, it’s a reflection of you. It shows your personality, approachability, and professionalism.
Expert Guidance: A headshot specialist photographer can coach you through posing, lighting, and wardrobe to make sure your look your very best self.
Investment in Your Future: An authentic headshot speaks volumes to potential clients, employers, and collaborators. It shows that you value yourself and your brand.
So while AI-generated headshots might seem convenient, they lack the personal touch and authenticity that only a professional headshot photographer who specializes in headshots. In the end, nothing beats investing in yourself and working with someone who truly understands how to capture the real you.
Besides, if you won’t invest in yourself, why should anyone invest in you and your business?
Why Are Headshots So Expensive?
Do I hear this often? Somewhat. Mostly because of perception. What really goes into creating a great headshot? Is it a good camera - partly - but if I have a $5000 oven, does that make me a better baker? Definitely not.
The primary reason professional photography is expensive is because it’s a business. And businesses have expenses; equipment, studio, insurance, business licenses, computers, vehicle expenses, accounting and the list goes on. And ultimately we need to make a living to pay for our expenses - family and business expenses.
So if you’re in the market for headshots, I’m sure you know all this already. Especially if you’re a fellow business owner.
What else are you paying for?
Experienced Professional Photographer - You are paying for my experience, my education, my knowledge. I understand how to create images that serve your brand. If someone tries to sell you something other than what your brand requires, perhaps because of their own limitations, stay clear.
Consistent Quality of Work - Can the photographer provide consistent looking work. Can you be assured that they can make you look great too?
Ability to Direct Subjects - Can the photographer communicate concisely with you on how to make you look great. This is not just “stand over there and smile” type of direction. If they cannot build a rapport with you, then you can be sure that your images will look stiff and boring. A great way to find this out is to get on the phone and talk to them. Also read thru reviews and testimonials.
Communication and Service - how well do they communicate with you throughout the process? This starts at the preparation stage then leading up to the session and of course throughout your photoshoot and the image selection process.
You’re not paying for time - you don’t pay for the photographer’s time. You’re paying for my experience and my ability to deliver. It could take 30 minutes or 2 hours. The difference is a lot more option when we take more time. So don’t choose your photographer based on their session time. It’s all based on quality - better quality comes from knowledge and experience.
So with all that being said you probably understand why you should be wary of photographers charging less than $250. That just comes from photographers not having the experience to know that they need to charge more to run a photography business and make a living in 2022.
What are some red flags to look for?
No headshot portfolio. If you’re looking at a photographer that has baby photos, family photos or wedding photos, those are not the same skills you need for headshots. It’s understandable that photographers do a few different genres to make a living, however, there has to be a dedicated page showing a headshot portfolio.
No insurance - professional photographers have to have insurance. It shows that they are running a professional business and they care about your safety and their safety and everyone who’s on set in the studio. And especially if they are working on your location.
Not technically flexible - are they stubborn about their style and not willing to work with your vision? This goes back to whether they can execute your brand requirements. Or do they only know how to work in one style that they know.
Not charging enough - are they cheap? Most likely they are inexperienced.
So what do you do if you have a limited budget? I understand it, we’ve all been there. But know that price and quality go hand in hand. If you as a professional and price your own work according to your value, why would you expect anything less from someone that you hire, whether it’s an accountant or a photographer.
Your headshot is going to be your primary marketing for your business. Why wouldn’t you hire a professional to make you look professional?
Fun Children's Portraits at the Park
Seeing these twin brothers and their sister always brightens my day! They're definitely not strangers to me; I feel like I'm constantly bumping into them, whether it's at the park, the library, or just around town. And every single time, I'm struck by their incredible joy. I honestly believe they're some of the happiest kids I've ever had the pleasure of knowing.
It's not just their smiles, though—they're truly engaging. They're quick-witted, always have something funny or insightful to say, and they're genuinely interested in the world around them. You can tell they're soaking up everything, learning and growing with such enthusiasm. They have this infectious energy that just makes you want to be around them. It's a real testament to their parents, and a reminder that childhood should be filled with laughter and curiosity. I feel lucky to witness their journey.
San Ramon Senior Photos
Another beautiful and funny young lady!
We are currently booking Sessions for High School Seniors. From location, multiple outfit changes and even hair and makeup services can be made available as well if requested in advance.
