Showing posts with label Portland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Portland. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Test: Favour of Option Model and Media
A preview from our recent shoot in collaboration with the mobile styling collective, Coast Coast.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Test: Q6 Model Sabrina
Just died when I realized Sabrina is only 12. Love the haunted look of her features and her simple, but emotive expressions.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
The Pretty Peackock: Mother Daughter Necklaces
Was soooo excited to open these beautiful necklaces from The Pretty Peackock! The set included one for myself and one for my daughter, Ella. Her chain is smaller and looks more delicate, but is sturdy enough for an adventurous 4-year old. (My girl plays hard.)
Friends and family kept asking about our necklaces and Ella was excited to show how they work. She loves the fact that her tiny heart pendant fits into the cutout of mine.
Friends and family kept asking about our necklaces and Ella was excited to show how they work. She loves the fact that her tiny heart pendant fits into the cutout of mine.
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Portland Fashion Week: Night 2
Night two was my FAVORITE night this weekend at Portland fashion week. Hello Eliza put on an amazing performance that included chains and zombie-like models sporting alternative, grunge apparel. Brady Lange's show was like a 1950's Spearmint commercial with beautiful models bopping down the runway and giving each other high-fives halfway down the runway. I think it helps to add personal style touches to the overall show and this is something both designers knew!
Samantha (Stylist from Shop Adorn) and I met up and you can see my fashion choices went completely summer inspired by this last little heat wave. Blouse: Tildon, Skirt: Rag and Bone, Shoes: Senso, Accessories,:Top Shop, Clutch: Philip Lim for Target
Designers Featured Friday Night:• Eliza Harrison – Hello Eliza
• Nelli Millard
• Kate S. Mensah
• Youtheary Khmer
• Brady Lange
• Nelli Millard
• Kate S. Mensah
• Youtheary Khmer
• Brady Lange
Music By:
Opening performance by IAN JAMES
- See more at: http://portlandfashionweek.net/portland-fashion-week-tickets/#sthash.w4KbaulA.dpufThursday, June 27, 2013
Lounge Lizard: Red Wing Shoes Event
Stopped in to check out the beautiful event at Lizard Lounge event last night, celebrating Red Wing's re-launch of 2 iconic shoe styles, 875 and 877. I was delighted to get invited to this event, since it was my first time stepping into the sprawling store and I had always wanted to peruse their inventory. Whoo hoo! I was not disappointed!
Of course, I was pretty impressed with the event itself and RedWing shoes. Paul and Williams did a beautiful job producing the event and right when I walked in, I found myself introduced to the brand through a creative installation. The shoes were a part of a bigger story and I had the opportunity to appreciate the brand and learn a bit about it's origins.
The vibe of the party once inside was exactly what I image is RedWing's demographic. I love their boots myself and check it out- I can see them on some of these beautiful peeps as well.
Love the trend of live haircuts at parties recently. They had a sweet set up at Lizard Lounge, as well as flowing kegs and drink options for attendees. The photo booth was fun too! Delia and I jumped in and were happy to see the printer spit out a copy for each of us.
I wore a really simple outfit- AE denim top with an Isaac Her's maxi and my Tied Up and Tousled necklace. Ran into one of my favorite Portland photographers- Boone Rodgriquez who was the official event photographer and that cutie in the red-shirt? She was one of the producers of the event- Delia Tethong.
Of course, I was pretty impressed with the event itself and RedWing shoes. Paul and Williams did a beautiful job producing the event and right when I walked in, I found myself introduced to the brand through a creative installation. The shoes were a part of a bigger story and I had the opportunity to appreciate the brand and learn a bit about it's origins.
The vibe of the party once inside was exactly what I image is RedWing's demographic. I love their boots myself and check it out- I can see them on some of these beautiful peeps as well.
Love the trend of live haircuts at parties recently. They had a sweet set up at Lizard Lounge, as well as flowing kegs and drink options for attendees. The photo booth was fun too! Delia and I jumped in and were happy to see the printer spit out a copy for each of us.
I wore a really simple outfit- AE denim top with an Isaac Her's maxi and my Tied Up and Tousled necklace. Ran into one of my favorite Portland photographers- Boone Rodgriquez who was the official event photographer and that cutie in the red-shirt? She was one of the producers of the event- Delia Tethong.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Lavenda's Closet: Nautical Silk
Really excited for this silk Sanctuary top from EG Page Boutique. The silk is very soft, but durable and even after splashing some water on it after washing my face this morning, it didn't dry with water spots or anything.
My new Kork-ease sandals (now on sale at Nordstrom) arrived this week as well and I am wearing them with EVERYTHING! They are really light to walk in and the white leather is perfect for every summer outfit.
Other credits: Jeans- Racer Skinnies by Citizens of Humanity (via EG PAGE), Sunnies- Betsy Johnson
SEE MORE LOOKS from Lavenda's Closet HERE.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Open Season: Reif and Brady Lange
I was asked to cover the full week of events at the Mercury's "Open Season" last week, but I am right smack in the middle of an acting class, so I had to decline. Attending just ONE night of the super trendy, spot- hopping series was a treat however and I have some photos of favorite pieces I saw that night.
These are a few faves from Brady Lange's New Line. As you all know, I am a HUGE fan of this up and coming Portland designer, having shot for his previous line and shared a tea or tea with the man himself.
And it was my first time seeing a Reif show and I was impressed with the cut and colors of these pieces. I already own one of her popular turbans, but this has me itching for another addition to my closet.
It was a very interesting location for an intimate show and I think the even photogs were able to grab better shots from their outdoor seats, where the runway ended. Check out what me, my date Sammantha and my hot, intern Anne wore to the show...
These are a few faves from Brady Lange's New Line. As you all know, I am a HUGE fan of this up and coming Portland designer, having shot for his previous line and shared a tea or tea with the man himself.
And it was my first time seeing a Reif show and I was impressed with the cut and colors of these pieces. I already own one of her popular turbans, but this has me itching for another addition to my closet.
It was a very interesting location for an intimate show and I think the even photogs were able to grab better shots from their outdoor seats, where the runway ended. Check out what me, my date Sammantha and my hot, intern Anne wore to the show...
Friday, May 17, 2013
Portland Fashion Photographer: Option Model's New Face Anne
Muah: Jessica Belknap, Assist, Travis Geny
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Portland Fashion Photographer: Work Hard and Be Nice to People
I work with hundreds of people every year, between actors, models, agents, designers and various other clients. It would be overwhelming if I tried to analyze and break down the actual numbers.
With the blessing of more work, comes more responsibility and inevitably, more stress.
Working with hundreds of people throughout the year means that I come across every personality type imaginable. People I click with and love, people who confuse, but inspire me and more rarely, unpleasant people who I will quietly and professionally decide not to work with again. Not everyone is nice and I know that. So I try and choose to let go and move on. (There are exceptions to my patience, but we'll save that for another blog post)*
I'm very lucky, however, to be surrounded by some respectable businessmen and women, who have and continue to instill in me a quiet perseverance and hope that things always eventually settle themselves. Like karma, situations always seem to balance themselves out in time.
An important lesson to be learned a million times over- is the lesson of protecting one's own mental health. I think that for those of us who are passionate and in LOVE with our work, losing ourselves in our work is a common theme. It's both our greatest asset and greatest torment.
Being passionate means that I am the kind of photographer who will overextend and go the extra mile for a client- just to ensure a beautiful product, something I am proud of, something I can stand behind. I have a strong voice, but my reoccurring clients echo the same assessments about my strong work ethic, positive attitude, artistic vision and strong communication skills.
I gladly extend myself, because I love what I do.
I am hyper aware of my work-obsession however, so I frequently and faithfully set time apart for my personal life, which means a space and time exclusive of absolutely ANY work. I do this in order to maintain my spiritual responsibilities as a "present" mommy, a good friend and an overall aware being.
Running is a way of taking care of my mind, but so is turning my phone off at the end of the day or taking Sundays to myself and my family. I learn little tricks as I get older, on how to drown out the perpetual draw of work, which I both love and hate so passionately.
A new lesson for me is also letting go of injustices in my work.
Over the years I have learned many lessons on how to acknowledge work tension and miscommunications- whether at my fault or that of the client/ talent. I am quick to forgive and move on if the situation allows it, but I have had some hard lessons and haven't been perfect throughout every one. That's important to understand about ourselves.
We are all imperfect.
The lesson in injustice has been a little disillusioning, nonetheless.
I had always imagined that as an adult in a rational society, that there would always be an opportunity for justice to prevail. (I know that sounds a bit pretentious and/or idealistic, but the term fits, so I'm using it for now). I'm the kind of person that sticks up for the little voices and if given the opportunity, I always root for the underdog, the unseen or the unpopular. (If you know anything of my upbringing, self-love and life-in-general did not unfold easily for me, so I have empathy for those at a disadvantage).
In some recent work-related incidences I've been splashed with an ice-cold-cup of reality and have had to face the ugly truth that those with money and power can do whatever the hell they want and those without, are at their mercy.
The quote "With great Wealth comes great Responsibility" comes to mind in this learning season. And it weighs on me incredibly.
Being on the receiving end of clients with the power to manipulate, bully and take advantage of me has inspired me to take inventory of my business. I have found myself stumped at the powerlessness and vulnerable state of my tiny business to those with no moral sense or moral compass.
And this is a common position for any free-lance worker, so I know I am one voice in a sea of voices.
After allowing myself a day or two of anger at the injustice of the situation, I began to think of my own responsibility and debt to those have so much less than myself. I find myself reflecting on my own opportunities to bless others and extend grace, courtesy and kindness when due.
Or not due. That is the definition of grace, after all.
I'm sad this week. But I'm also oddly inspired.
I'm pissed that people can walk all over one another unchecked- protected by their own ignorance and sadly, money. But I'm also inspired to be more appreciative of those who are kind and generous. Or those who are simply loyal and honest.
I'm inspired to send more thank you cards, listen more attentively and speak less.
It's nice. It's a quiet, sobering week for me to think on what more I can do for others. And where to go from here.
With the blessing of more work, comes more responsibility and inevitably, more stress.
Working with hundreds of people throughout the year means that I come across every personality type imaginable. People I click with and love, people who confuse, but inspire me and more rarely, unpleasant people who I will quietly and professionally decide not to work with again. Not everyone is nice and I know that. So I try and choose to let go and move on. (There are exceptions to my patience, but we'll save that for another blog post)*
I'm very lucky, however, to be surrounded by some respectable businessmen and women, who have and continue to instill in me a quiet perseverance and hope that things always eventually settle themselves. Like karma, situations always seem to balance themselves out in time.
An important lesson to be learned a million times over- is the lesson of protecting one's own mental health. I think that for those of us who are passionate and in LOVE with our work, losing ourselves in our work is a common theme. It's both our greatest asset and greatest torment.
Being passionate means that I am the kind of photographer who will overextend and go the extra mile for a client- just to ensure a beautiful product, something I am proud of, something I can stand behind. I have a strong voice, but my reoccurring clients echo the same assessments about my strong work ethic, positive attitude, artistic vision and strong communication skills.
I gladly extend myself, because I love what I do.
I am hyper aware of my work-obsession however, so I frequently and faithfully set time apart for my personal life, which means a space and time exclusive of absolutely ANY work. I do this in order to maintain my spiritual responsibilities as a "present" mommy, a good friend and an overall aware being.
(I was laughing so hard at this ecard quote, so I made my own poster... photo taken for EG Page)
A new lesson for me is also letting go of injustices in my work.
Over the years I have learned many lessons on how to acknowledge work tension and miscommunications- whether at my fault or that of the client/ talent. I am quick to forgive and move on if the situation allows it, but I have had some hard lessons and haven't been perfect throughout every one. That's important to understand about ourselves.
We are all imperfect.
The lesson in injustice has been a little disillusioning, nonetheless.
I had always imagined that as an adult in a rational society, that there would always be an opportunity for justice to prevail. (I know that sounds a bit pretentious and/or idealistic, but the term fits, so I'm using it for now). I'm the kind of person that sticks up for the little voices and if given the opportunity, I always root for the underdog, the unseen or the unpopular. (If you know anything of my upbringing, self-love and life-in-general did not unfold easily for me, so I have empathy for those at a disadvantage).
In some recent work-related incidences I've been splashed with an ice-cold-cup of reality and have had to face the ugly truth that those with money and power can do whatever the hell they want and those without, are at their mercy.
The quote "With great Wealth comes great Responsibility" comes to mind in this learning season. And it weighs on me incredibly.
Being on the receiving end of clients with the power to manipulate, bully and take advantage of me has inspired me to take inventory of my business. I have found myself stumped at the powerlessness and vulnerable state of my tiny business to those with no moral sense or moral compass.
And this is a common position for any free-lance worker, so I know I am one voice in a sea of voices.
After allowing myself a day or two of anger at the injustice of the situation, I began to think of my own responsibility and debt to those have so much less than myself. I find myself reflecting on my own opportunities to bless others and extend grace, courtesy and kindness when due.
Or not due. That is the definition of grace, after all.
I'm sad this week. But I'm also oddly inspired.
I'm pissed that people can walk all over one another unchecked- protected by their own ignorance and sadly, money. But I'm also inspired to be more appreciative of those who are kind and generous. Or those who are simply loyal and honest.
I'm inspired to send more thank you cards, listen more attentively and speak less.
It's nice. It's a quiet, sobering week for me to think on what more I can do for others. And where to go from here.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Portland Fashion Photographer: Rocky Horror
Something about this screams old, cinema films to me. I fell in LOVE with my model today and yes, I think I found my new, favorite lady crush.
Outtakes from a recent look book shoot for EG PAGE. Model, Sarah Schroeder Muah, Jessica Belknap, Assistant Anne Schulyer-Moon
Monday, May 6, 2013
Behind the Lens: Lavenda's Closet
I style for shoots often, so when it's time for me to update my own book, I get super excited! My new agents wanted me to get some lifestyle, college/ girl next door shots to update with, so I went with some simple summer staples. I added the tiniest bit of personality through pops of color and an interesting peplum to a simple, white shirt.
Had a lot of fun working with Travis Geny for the first time and LOVED what Janelle Hayden did with my hair and makeup.
Shirt: UO, Shorts: Abercrombie, Sunnies: BP, Shoes: UO
Had a lot of fun working with Travis Geny for the first time and LOVED what Janelle Hayden did with my hair and makeup.
Shirt: UO, Shorts: Abercrombie, Sunnies: BP, Shoes: UO
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Picture Perfect: How to be okay with a Messy Life
I was thinking about how everything on my sets- or the final image at least- has to be perfect in order for me to place it on my website. Then I was thinking how disorganized my office was at that moment, or my living room for that matter. And it occurred to me suddenly, that the final images I put out in the world don't always reflect the displacement or messiness of my own life.
It's weird. It kind of feels like I'm telling a lie.
I mean, obviously my work- my personal work- will always reflect my current point-of-view or my state of mind. It comes out through my voice, inspirations and final shot/photo/series in some form or another. But it's crazy to think that some people will only ever see this polished side to my work, my life. When in fact, I am a crazy hot mess about 95% of the time.
The best advice I've received (that I can remember) has been in the vein of "let the little things go" and "spend time on what's most important".
In order to follow this piece of advice, I must ALWAYS prioritize my loved ones. I don't have a lot of time after work and family to spend cleaning house, unpacking bags or reorganizing. And I have become okay with it. And by okay I don't mean excited about a messy house, I just mean I have peace about it. That's why I try and get help with the cleaning at times and schedule in "days off" to catch up on organization. But overall it's quite nice to change my perspective and see the messiness as a sign of well being.
When I see the kitchen table piled with mail and my daughter running round asking to play- I feel solid about ducking to the park to play. And I try to remind myself... sometimes it truly IS about the little things.
It's weird. It kind of feels like I'm telling a lie.
I mean, obviously my work- my personal work- will always reflect my current point-of-view or my state of mind. It comes out through my voice, inspirations and final shot/photo/series in some form or another. But it's crazy to think that some people will only ever see this polished side to my work, my life. When in fact, I am a crazy hot mess about 95% of the time.
The best advice I've received (that I can remember) has been in the vein of "let the little things go" and "spend time on what's most important".
In order to follow this piece of advice, I must ALWAYS prioritize my loved ones. I don't have a lot of time after work and family to spend cleaning house, unpacking bags or reorganizing. And I have become okay with it. And by okay I don't mean excited about a messy house, I just mean I have peace about it. That's why I try and get help with the cleaning at times and schedule in "days off" to catch up on organization. But overall it's quite nice to change my perspective and see the messiness as a sign of well being.
When I see the kitchen table piled with mail and my daughter running round asking to play- I feel solid about ducking to the park to play. And I try to remind myself... sometimes it truly IS about the little things.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Portland Fashion Photographer: Sanity Maintenance
I want to punch something. Maybe a punching bag. Maybe not.
I have been so slammed this winter, running 2 weeks behind on deadlines for nearly 4 months. I'm finally reaching the point where I'm only 3-4 days behind on things, but ongoing work always ads to the work load. Whew. Gotta get my head above water.
In additional to normal work-sucks- stuff, I feel like I'm attracting crazy people left and right. Not that I'm an exception to crazy, but we are talking extra cray- crazy. Let me explain.
As a free-lance business owner I understand that clear and concise communication will most often prevent fall out. I have work methods incorporated into my work flow that help to set expectations with clients from the get-go. It has worked pretty well for me so far and usually end up with a very satisfied client...
HOWEVER, what I don't know how to prevent//avoid//thwart is that drug-like appeal of drama and conflict that some people can't seem to kick. I mean, woah peeps. Let's all get off FB for a moment and remember how to act in public.
(illustration credit lucca grosso)
Sometimes I think we forget to check in with each other on a relational level and rely on emails, texts and even phone calls so exclusively that we lose the big picture perspective. I believe this happens in work relationships all too often as well, including my own. I think my clients believe I am some sort of computing device (hopefully Apple) that can work in overdrive without any kind of recharge, reboot, compensation, rest, fuel, et cetera.
It makes me want to punch someone. Or just my computer screen. I am hot-damn-frustrated, because while yes, I AM a receptionist, art director, producer, photographer, retoucher, designer, marketer and business owner at large- I am ALSO a mother, wife, friend and real-life person who needs to occasionally step AWAY from my desk at times. Or dare I say- maybe take a day off of work in order to maintain the aforementioned relationships (including mine with my sanity).
I am already a hard working, over achiever. I often work through my lunches so that I can finish reading emails at my desk and while I may peruse FB while my computer is exporting photos, I am most likely setting up a callsheet or organizing proofs.
Then I pick my daughter up from school and run errands with her, clean the house and make dinner. Once she's tucked into bed I usually work another hour or three. (Usually three.) And I do some rendition of this 6 days a week.
And I'm happy to do so, because I love my job. I love my daughter.
I love my job up to a point, however.
It's not love I'm feeling once I get the crazy clients pouring in with guns blazing making all sorts of demands for time, resources, knowledge and product- wondering why I can't send them photos or proofs or orders more quickly and on their timeline, despite clear processing estimates and my only-human-ability to execute those.
I mean, seriously. If you pay 5.95 for ground delivery, do you expect overnight delivery?
And I don't mean that I won't accomodate a rush-order if the time is available, or that I wouldn't do a quick turn around if that's the initial expectation... I'm talking about the people who have received the estimate turn around, or know my prices, or read the quote and STILL wreak havoc nonetheless.
Besides, this isn't just about people being impatient, it's about people pouting, bullying and then manipulating as methods to get what they want.
To my dismay, clients who over-demand often get more of my attention. That whole saying "the squeaky wheel gets the grease"? Yeah. It's true. The damn squeaky wheels stress me out so badly that though I hate to admit it, yes, I will quickly bend over and oil it up so that I can get back to work in peace.
Some of the crazies can't be quieted or made content, however, and continue to make waves. (Through emails, or social media posts or straight forward agressive behavior). I don't know what to say about them. I guess they will always be around.
Those who don't squeak will get their products in a timely manner and be compensated for any delays on my end. Because I'm nice like that. But why the hell should the crazy, impatient, aggressive people get their way in the end?
I'm emotionally taxed. But that's old news. And besides, in addition to my exhaustion I feel like I'm ready to make some changes to my business workflow. I've got to get something set up that will help me better responde to those squeaky wheels.
I have been so slammed this winter, running 2 weeks behind on deadlines for nearly 4 months. I'm finally reaching the point where I'm only 3-4 days behind on things, but ongoing work always ads to the work load. Whew. Gotta get my head above water.
In additional to normal work-sucks- stuff, I feel like I'm attracting crazy people left and right. Not that I'm an exception to crazy, but we are talking extra cray- crazy. Let me explain.
As a free-lance business owner I understand that clear and concise communication will most often prevent fall out. I have work methods incorporated into my work flow that help to set expectations with clients from the get-go. It has worked pretty well for me so far and usually end up with a very satisfied client...
HOWEVER, what I don't know how to prevent//avoid//thwart is that drug-like appeal of drama and conflict that some people can't seem to kick. I mean, woah peeps. Let's all get off FB for a moment and remember how to act in public.
(illustration credit lucca grosso)
Sometimes I think we forget to check in with each other on a relational level and rely on emails, texts and even phone calls so exclusively that we lose the big picture perspective. I believe this happens in work relationships all too often as well, including my own. I think my clients believe I am some sort of computing device (hopefully Apple) that can work in overdrive without any kind of recharge, reboot, compensation, rest, fuel, et cetera.
It makes me want to punch someone. Or just my computer screen. I am hot-damn-frustrated, because while yes, I AM a receptionist, art director, producer, photographer, retoucher, designer, marketer and business owner at large- I am ALSO a mother, wife, friend and real-life person who needs to occasionally step AWAY from my desk at times. Or dare I say- maybe take a day off of work in order to maintain the aforementioned relationships (including mine with my sanity).
I am already a hard working, over achiever. I often work through my lunches so that I can finish reading emails at my desk and while I may peruse FB while my computer is exporting photos, I am most likely setting up a callsheet or organizing proofs.
Then I pick my daughter up from school and run errands with her, clean the house and make dinner. Once she's tucked into bed I usually work another hour or three. (Usually three.) And I do some rendition of this 6 days a week.
And I'm happy to do so, because I love my job. I love my daughter.
I love my job up to a point, however.
It's not love I'm feeling once I get the crazy clients pouring in with guns blazing making all sorts of demands for time, resources, knowledge and product- wondering why I can't send them photos or proofs or orders more quickly and on their timeline, despite clear processing estimates and my only-human-ability to execute those.
I mean, seriously. If you pay 5.95 for ground delivery, do you expect overnight delivery?
And I don't mean that I won't accomodate a rush-order if the time is available, or that I wouldn't do a quick turn around if that's the initial expectation... I'm talking about the people who have received the estimate turn around, or know my prices, or read the quote and STILL wreak havoc nonetheless.
Besides, this isn't just about people being impatient, it's about people pouting, bullying and then manipulating as methods to get what they want.
To my dismay, clients who over-demand often get more of my attention. That whole saying "the squeaky wheel gets the grease"? Yeah. It's true. The damn squeaky wheels stress me out so badly that though I hate to admit it, yes, I will quickly bend over and oil it up so that I can get back to work in peace.
Some of the crazies can't be quieted or made content, however, and continue to make waves. (Through emails, or social media posts or straight forward agressive behavior). I don't know what to say about them. I guess they will always be around.
Those who don't squeak will get their products in a timely manner and be compensated for any delays on my end. Because I'm nice like that. But why the hell should the crazy, impatient, aggressive people get their way in the end?
I'm emotionally taxed. But that's old news. And besides, in addition to my exhaustion I feel like I'm ready to make some changes to my business workflow. I've got to get something set up that will help me better responde to those squeaky wheels.
Saturday, March 30, 2013
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