Chappell Studios

Featured

Food Photography

Capturing exceptional food photographs is a skill that requires time and effort to master. Food photography is a captivating genre that beautifully showcases food as the primary focus in stunning still images. Commercial photography encompasses a variety of applications, such as product packaging, cookbooks, billboards, marketing materials, and beyond. Images play a crucial role in today’s digital market as they are widely utilized for websites, newsletters, banners, and even social media accounts.

Food photography is a challenging field due to the various factors that can affect the appearance of food such as cooling, melting, or loss of freshness. That’s why it requires a collaborative effort from prop stylists, food stylists, lighting specialists, and designers, who all work together to ensure that food photographers capture their shots at the perfect moment.

Diane understands that in order to capture the best food photography, a great team with a meticulous vision is essential. She acknowledges that the presentation and arrangement of food require patience and attention to detail. Not only must she be prepared to quickly capture dishes, but she must also be poised to ensure the most vibrant images are obtained.

Diane’s team, as food photographers, is consistently thrilled to collaborate with fresh clients for their restaurant photography, advertising photography, and other services.

Are you prepared to discuss the initial steps of your upcoming project? Or curious about how food photography can bring your brand to the next level?

Get in touch.https://chappellstudiosphotography.com/food-drink-photography-specialize-in-creation-of-tabletop-lifestyle

PRODUCT / FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT

After finishing all the product photography for Olde Hudson based in Hudson, NY, I needed to capture some captivating photos featuring delectable food placed on dinner plates, marble and wooden boards. The whole process was absolutely delightful, from shopping for the props, arranging them stylishly, and, of course, savoring them by eating.

Food Styling Tips

Style with fresh ingredients
Choose smaller plates and bowls
Incorporate layering techniques into your food presentation.
Style with napkins
Plan your food styling ahead of time

You can elevate your headshots to the next level by selecting the ideal attire for your headshot sessions.

At Chappell Studios, our utmost mission is to ensure an exceptional experience for you, including expertly assisting you in choosing the perfect ensemble for your headshots.

Boost the Quality of Your Professional Headshots for Men with These Expert Tips.

The acceptable attire in professional settings greatly varies across different industries. In most cases, it is generally expected that lawyers, doctors and bankers dress in a formal and conservative manner. On the other hand, individuals in technical or creative positions might feel out of place if they were to wear a suit and tie to work.

If you find yourself uncertain, check out how your boss dresses or a respected leader in your industry. Your superiors’ wardrobe choices often serve as a reliable indicator of their status and professionalism. Paying attention to their attire can help you exude a strong sense of confidence.

At our headshot sessions, we make it our priority to provide a personalized experience, carefully considering each client’s individual vision and desires.

We offer advice on enhancing your appearance. If, for example, you are not wearing a jacket, consider wearing a collared button-up shirt as a simple suggestion we provide. It draws less attention to the neck and helps frame your face.

Your headshot is a powerful representation of not only your expertise but also your unique personality. If posing for the camera feels a bit awkward, worry not, for we have an array of suggestions to ensure you always appear at your absolute best. Every individual is distinct and what works for one person may not work for another.

Brand Photography

Brand Photography with Danielle Stansky in New York

by Diane Chappell | Personal Branding Photoshoot | No comments

Danielle Stansky is a modern day woman if I ever saw one and a beautiful example of saying yes to opportunities in her life. She recently accepted a position as an Emergency Medicine Physician at NYU. Danielle does research on autism and is passionate about changing medical education so that all physicians are trained on techniques to work with special needs patients.

Danielle was a gymnast growing up so she really enjoys working out and living a healthy lifestyle. In her spare time she loves to cook and is always down to try and create a new recipe. Modeling has definitely brought out her creative side and is truly an outlet for her to express herself. To see some of Dani’s modeling work check her out on IG https://www.instagram.com/danistansky/

Curious about Personal branding Photography in New York?

Brand Photography

Brand Photography with Genn Shaughnessy in Albany, NY

by Diane Chappell | Personal Branding Photoshoot

Genn Shaughnessy is a Commercial MakeUp Artist, Licensed Hair Stylist and Beauty Expert in Albany, NY who provides camera ready makeup and hair styling services for HD, TV, Photo and Film.

Genn’s ability to produce various types of MakeUp Artistry and Hair Styling for HDTV, Photo and mixed media demonstrates her amazing eye for detail and her ability to think outside the lines of conventional thinking. Genn’s vast knowledge of cosmetics & beauty tools shines in writing and producing beauty segments, blog posts and educational tutorials.

Genn’s vast knowledge of cosmetics & beauty tools shines in writing and producing beauty segments, blog posts and educational tutorials. Genn Shaughnessy has numerous film, print and web credits to her name that include FOX News, People Magazine, Teen People Magazine, American Idol Live and TLC’s Trading Spaces. She combines tremendous talent and make-up savvy with a plethora of experience and the ability to deliver uncompromising quality of work to every professional work setting.

CREATING WITH GENN

Genn is a great asset to our team and sets a great example with her artistry and professionalism.

BEAUTY WORK

To see more of Genn’s professional work check her out on IG https://www.instagram.com/gennshaughnessy/

Curious about Personal branding Photography in New York?

How to Maintain Branding with Your Professional Headshot

Professional photos can make or break a first impression and the overall look of a brand. New brands have a lot of freedom when it comes to what the images can look like and what personality they can embrace. Existing brands must stay within the bounds of their current aesthetic in order to maintain the look and feel that has already been established.

Five ways to maintain branding with your professional headshot:

#1 – Update all headshots at the same time.

If your organization is more than a one-man-band, professional headshots should be updated company-wide to ensure that they not only represent your current set of employees and the aesthetic that you are trying to convey, but to keep them all similar.

Keep in mind that lighting and background changes everything – so updating all of the photos at once with the same photographer, using the exact same settings, will help maintain consistency throughout the collection of images.

#2 – Styling matters!

Before your professional headshot session, you should take the time to consider what you’d like to wear and how you’d like your hair and makeup styled. Whatever you choose, be sure that it conveys the same overall message for your brand.

For example, if you are vibrant and quirky then bright bold colors and less traditional poses will fit. On the other hand, if you are a financial advisor who needs to convey the utmost professionalism, then professional attire with a classic backdrop will likely be a better fit.

If you aren’t sure what to choose, go ahead and ask! I’d be happy to discuss options.

#3 – Location. Location. Location.

On top of clothing, hair, and makeup, another way to convey your brand’s message and ensure consistency throughout your images is by choosing the proper location.

Do you want photos to take place in-studio where all of the elements are controlled or do you prefer on-location photos that will take place at your office or outdoors?

While either option can make for incredible headshots you’ll want to choose the one that best fits your needs. You’ll want to consider how many people are being photographed, what the weather is like outdoors, available timeframes (the sun is a huge deal here!), accessibility, etc.

Need help figuring out the best location for your shoot? I can help!

#4 – Use the photos everywhere.

When you have a new collection of professional business headshots, use them! Put the images to work on your website, throughout your social media profiles, on your print materials, anywhere that they are appropriate.

Think about it this way; if one of your networking/marketing materials has a photo, it should be updated every time you have a new collection of images.

#5 – Be sure that the photos represent the current you.

Many of us have favorite photos from the past and would love to use those for marketing purposes. The problem here is that while you may not feel like 10 years have passed, using old photos can lead to some confusion on the client end. They may not understand why the ‘you’ that they see in photos doesn’t match the ‘you’ they meet in person.

Updating your photos on a regular basis will not only represent the real ‘you’ but they’ll also let your audience know that you embrace the person you are today and the journey that has led you to this place.

Ready to schedule your branding session? I can’t wait to work with you!

Here’s how you can reach me:

Diane
Chappell Studios Photography
info@chappellstudiosportraits.com
New York Photographer
(518) 487-9399
Schodack Landing, NY 12156

The Importance of a Professional Headshot

If you love taking selfies on your phone, you might be tempted to use one for your favorites as the profile photo on your professional networking sites. But before you even think about hitting save on that change, here are a few points to consider when it comes to the importance of a professional headshot.

Professional headshots are an investment in your brand.

First impressions are everything and a photo is worth 1,000 words. I know you’ve heard these sayings but have you considered the serious impact that they have on your brand?

Using professional headshots as your profile photo or on your website will tell your audience that you mean business. That you’re a legitimate professional who knows how to represent themselves and will in turn serve their businesses well.

Professional headshots help build trust.

Putting a name to a face will help clients understand that you’re a real human being behind the website or social profile and to begin feeling like they know you.

While you want to bring personality into your photos, dressing appropriately and being photographed in an appropriate pose will help your potential clients know that you are serious about your business and are someone that they can trust.

Professional headshots can be used everywhere.

Think far beyond your LinkedIn profile. Professional headshots can be used on all of your social media platforms, your website, in an email signature, throughout your printed marketing materials, and more.

Don’t forget, a good professional photographer is worth their weight in gold.

The person behind the camera makes all the difference in the world! Professional photographers have the education and experience to help you with:

Overall styling
Posing
Facial expressions
Lighting
Setting (either in-studio or on location)
And more!

While this may be your first professional headshot photo session, it certainly is not THIS photographer’s first. As a master portrait photographer, I am always learning and growing in order to ensure that I get the best images possible for every client. I use all of my knowledge from previous sessions to help serve your needs best.

You’ll receive a collection of images that offers a variety of poses and expressions in order to choose the final images that will best represent your brand.

Do you have questions about setting up your professional headshot photo session? Ask away! Feel free to shoot me a quick email and we’ll set up a time to chat about what you’ve envisioned and answer any questions you might have.

Here’s how you can reach me:

Diane
Chappell Studios Portraits
info@chappellstudiosportraits.com
New York Portrait Photographer
(518) 487-9399
Schodack Landing, NY 12156

Let’s talk about Michelle!

I don’t often single out a client, but my session with Michelle was just incredible and I want to tell you a little about the inspiration that helped us create this setup.

Ah – the jumpsuit.

This iconic shape has stood the test of time is a fascinating piece of fashion. It literally began as a suit for parachuters and skydivers to jump from planes in, quickly becoming the staple attire for some of the most dangerous professions.

In 1919, the jumpsuit was adapted to be an everyday wear piece by Italian artist, Thayat. He envisioned creating something that was easy to make and wear. While his intention was for it to be worn by the working class, the upper class quickly picked up on the new design and ran with it. The first high fashion jumpsuit was introduced in the 1930’s by Elsa Schiaparelli and the rest is history.

>> For a complete history of the jumpsuit, check out FashionArchives.com.

For this shoot, Michelle was dressed in a 1960’s inspired bold floral printed, wide-legged, sleeveless jumpsuit, accented with a side-swept tumbling curls hairstyle by stylist Amber Snare.

Makeup artist Bryon Glick gave Michelle a cut crease with sharply defined eyeshadow, inspired by the popular makeup trades during the 60’s. The golden highlighter brought in is a fresh shade from the 2017-2018 season, as seen backstage at Fashion Week in New York City.

The photos from this session were featured in Surreal Magazine April 2018 Issue. http://surrealbeautymag.com/

I’ve mentioned before that photographing styles from historic eras is one of the things that inspires me most. If you have an idea for this type of session that you’d love to bring to life, please connect with me! I’d love to hear your thoughts and see how we might be able to work together.

Here’s how you can reach me:

Diane
Chappell Studios Portraits
info@chappellstudiosportraits.com
New York Portrait Photographer
(518) 487-9399
Schodack Landing, NY 12156

Are professional business headshots really necessary?

First impressions are everything, especially in business. A professional headshot associated with your website and online profile can help to quickly communicate your personality and create a connection.

In today’s world of mass communication, you will likely communicate with clients on many different platforms. From the standard phone calls and paper mail to email and social media, adding your photo will help your clients know who you are even if you haven’t met face to face and start building a lasting business relationship.

Don’t let a pixelated selfie define your brand!

The types of clients I typically work with who need a professional business headshot in order to keep their marketing and communication collateral on point include: investment advisors, small business owners, corporate business men and women, artists, wellness coaches, realtors, engineers, lawyers, and more.

>> Wondering if a professional headshot could help your business? Email me!

Keep in mind that professional business headshots can be whatever you want. They should reflect the culture of your organization in style, including makeup, wardrobe, and location.

For example – if you own yoga studio, your headshot is going to be styled much different than if you were a financial advisor that only managed jumbo investment accounts.

These images should communicate whatever message your business needs to send. Be it the standard professional, laid back, fun, or just zen. Don’t worry, I’m here to help with styling and anything else you need, so feel free to ask questions and share ideas with me.

The location of each professional headshot session depends on the individual needs of my client. They can take place indoors at my studio or on location in your office, boardroom or outdoors.

Depending on which you choose, I’ll then assemble the proper behind the scenes team to help create the images you’ve envisioned. If you have some type of Pinterest board or inspiration example that you’d like to share with me, even better!

Still wondering if a professional business headshot is really necessary?

Check out this review from a recent client:

“Diane was extremely professional and was wonderful in assisting me with the start of my portfolio. Both Diane and her hair and makeup artist, Katie, made the whole experience for me enjoyable. The quality of the finished products were great and I could not be more pleased. I highly recommend Chappell Studios! ” Theresa T. Albany, NY

Ready to schedule a session for your professional business headshots?

Here’s how you can reach me:

Diane
Chappell Studios Photography
info@chappellstudiosportraits.com
New York Photographer
(518) 487-9399
Schodack Landing, NY 12156

What inspires this New York portrait photographer?

Being a New York portrait photographer is such a joy. I love everything about my job – meeting new clients, developing long-term relationships with clients over time, all of the evolving trends in fashion and photography, the list goes on. No session is exactly the same as another and I really enjoy (and am inspired by) the opportunities that this gives me to be creative.

One of the first things I do when working with a new client is listen. I want to hear everything you have in mind for your session, so be prepared to tell me all about what you’ve envisioned for your images. Sketch it out, send me a link to your favorite Pinterest board, whatever you prefer – I’m ready.

Two of my main sources of inspiration are vintage looks and New York fashion week!

I love seeing iconic looks come to life with professional makeup styles from historic eras, intricate hairstyles, and wardrobes that pass the test of time. This is way more than a #TBT kind of social media only session. It’s embracing the past and stepping back into time even if just for a moment.

Fashion Week is on the exact opposite end of the inspiration spectrum. Everything is fresh and new. It pushes boundaries, introduces wild ideas, raises the bar on what fashion can be and where it can take you. The colors and textures boost my energy and revive my visions for what the future of fashion may look like.

Another element of my work that I’m very proud of, is that I continue educating myself in order to further develop my skills and stay on top of the latest photography trends.

I have fantastic mentors and am a member of expert education groups that continue to inspire me on a daily basis. Some of these photographers include Sue Bryce, Creative Live, Inc., Joe McNally, Peter Hurley, and Lindsey Adler.

Would you like to chat about the inspiration behind what you’ve envisioned for your next New York portrait session? I’d love to chat with you!

Here’s how you can reach me:

Diane
Chappell Studios Portraits
info@chappellstudiosportraits.com
New York Portrait Photographer
(518) 487-9399
Schodack Landing, NY 12156