How shall I arrive?
I prefer people to arrive with a clean face (no make up or very little makeup)
Are there extra fees once I arrive?
Who does the hair and makeup?
I do! I have been doing hair and makeup for photoshoots on ALL SKIN COLORS /HAIR TYPES for over 20 years. I studied make up and have always been a duplicator. If I see a picture of something I can just do it. I offer these services along with my shoots as part of the overall artistry it is what makes my photography unique. I have perfected makeup for camera that is specifically designed to work with the lighting techniques I use here. So I know a lot of gals like to do their own but they will not know how to do it for my camera lighting and I will say it does make a difference.
I also enjoy the process as a way to put you at ease and we can get to know each other- it creates a trust and I think is partly why I have such a high success rate bringing the best out of people.
Note: If you are a hair stylist or make up artist yourself and would prefer to do your own I can absolutely respect that. It will not change the prices of my shoots (because that’s part of artistry included).
I will usually give you a few additional edits instead.
Do you run Specials?
Yes I do. I run them on my Sweet Heart Pin Up facebook and instagram pages. The big difference between my regular priced packages and my specials is time and tailoring. For my “specials” you will only get around 10 minutes of shooting time and I will only allow the sets on "special" to be used.
There are just many limits to them because they are so cheap. Specials are a quickie version of what I do"quick hair, quick makeup, limited sets, 10 mins of shooting time". So when people come to me with wanting a more relaxed experience I have to direct them to my regular priced menu.
For my regular priced packages you get a lot more time and direction, you receive more set options, I will allow more time for personalizing. I spend more time on hair and make up, I really coach people during the shooting session and there’s zero rush. I usually edit 10-30 pictures (depending on the package) for them to choose from and they receive their own online private password protected viewing and shopping gallery.
Their gallery will have anything they’d like to buy prints, digitals, canvas wall art, coffee cups etc. Also their gallery is an online backup of their photographs. They say you get what you pay for and that is very true. If you want the best shoot possible choose a package from my regular menu.
I work really hard and for me to stay in business I must be paid my regular prices. What I offer is worth that and much more.
Why are your prices so reasonable?
When I started my business I really wanted it to be affordable because I believe everyone deserves to feel pretty and glamorous. One of the ways I keep it affordable is that I do not have any employees. I do everything myself. EVERYTHING. So when you are comparing my prices to others know that my prices should be triple what they are.
What sizes in wardrobe do you have?
I have XS-4XL. So anything from a size 2 to a size 24. In the About section, there is a how to book a shoot form so please fill that out and send to me. It makes everything easier once I know your sizes and I can respond and let you know what you should bring.
I think the most common thing people need to bring is a good fitting bra ( black/boudoir or strapless bra/pinup) undies and heels (we have a lot here sizes (6-11) but a photoshoot is a great time to play with those heels you never get to wear).
Usually with wardrobe if you bring some of your things we can mix and match with what I have here and that seems to work the best.
I have surgery scars can you hide them?
Yes! I have had so many ladies here with different things they don't like from a bad tattoo, scars, stretch marks, cellulite, you name it I see it daily. I am super sensitive to women's worries because I am a woman who has had surgeries, who has a belly, big thighs and arms and extra chins. LOL I get it. You want to feel good and look great. That is what I do here. It's my speciality.
I love to prove to all women that the ladies in magazines are just like you. Perfection is a fun idea but its not a reality. Allow your imperfections to be your perfection!
What do I need to Bring?
Bring your own:
What Payment do you accept?
I accept cash, checks, credit cards, paypal and venmo. If you want to work out a payment plan before your shoot, you can contact me. The goal is always to have it paid in full by your shoot date. All packages are listed under prices and can be easily purchased by pay pal/venmo. Contact me if you want to pay for a shoot upfront or would like to purchase a gift certificate 716 803-5993.
Can I bring someone with me to the shoot?
I really prefer to work with people one on one, I think people think having someone there will help relax them but its usually the opposite, I notice my clients feel more self conscious. I also do not like when friends come and start directing my shoot, that's not cool. Trust and respect are the secrets to success. I don’t mind if you bring ONE friend they can watch us do makeup and hair, but during the actual photo shoot I will ask them to leave the shooting area. I have a nice waiting room with magazines, or they can check out the other great stores on Main street like Cats' Like Us, Atomic barbershop, Hello sweets, Twin City Deli and Pulp 716. I think a certain magic takes place between artist and muse when we work alone, I consider myself an artist and I take what I do very seriously. I have 100% success rate if people respect my process and trust that I will do a great job making them look their best.
Are prints or digitals included in my photo shoot?
NO. My photo shoots are very reasonably priced. To keep my prices this way I have my clients purchase prints or digital downloads separately. This way they get exactly what they want and spend what they want to spend. After your photo shoot I edit the best photos depending on your package could be 10 could be 30, then I put them on your own private password protected online shopping gallery. I send you an email with a link to it, then you view your photos and purchase the ones you like. Your gallery will have a ton of ordering options any size print, merchandise, digital downloads even photo packages that are all very modestly priced. You choose what’s best for your needs then you order the pictures that YOU like and they get shipped or emailed to YOU directly. All client galleries stay up for 6 months. That is giving you ample time to make purchases.
What am I going to get by coming to you instead of having my friends cousin who owns a camera do it?
Well I love to cook and I own an oven but that doesn't make me a chef. There are a ton of self proclaimed "photographers" out there offering shoots for free or cheap. I have heard nothing but horror stories from clients about bad experiences. From never getting their photos to being put in uncomfortable situations Or just hating every single picture! That will not happen here. Having a professional studio takes many years of knowledge and experience. You have to be licensed and insured, you have to have top of the line equipment and consistently create a quality product. Our studio is so much more than even a regular studio because we provide beautiful wardrobe from all over the world, we have vintage and modern sets, we have shoes in all sizes, jewelry, and props. We provide professional makeup for camera and hairstyling. We also pride ourselves in being able to put all different personality types at ease and find a way to direct them and pose them to get those amazing shots. That is not a SKILL that comes along "buying a camera", that is one LEARNED over 20 years in the photo shoot industry. This is the real deal. This place has a fun vibe with spa like feeling and is a sanctuary of safety.
How long does a boudoir or pinup photo shoot last?
Depends on the shoot, if its a quickie special I’d say 1-2 hours at the most. If it’s a shoot where we have 2 or more wardrobe changes I’d say 3-4 hours. I’m not located at the mall so I don’t have a timer on the table and end your shooting session after 5 minutes. I believe I am successful at getting women to love their photos is because I allow time for them to get comfortable and relax.
I have never done a photo shoot before and I'm nervous, what if I mess up and look bad?
I think 95% of my clients are first timers and you can’t mess up, all you have to do is show up. I do it all. I worked for 13 years in Los Angeles dressing celebrities for photo shoots and events, I did make up and hair and model coached for several photographers. When you come to me you are getting like 5 people in one. I do your hair and makeup, I help pick out your wardrobe by seeing whats most flattering to you, then I take your pictures, while doing that I coach you and help pose you so you get the best result possible. You just have to trust me.
Why does seeing my edited photos take 2-3 weeks?
My editing process begins when I have an editing day which is 1-2 days a week or 3-5 a month. ( if you have a deadline please make me aware of it upon scheduling). I usually have thousands of pictures to sort through and I work on everyone's photos in order as shot. The sorting process takes several hours, then the editing process can be 20 mins- 1 hour per photo. All of your photos have to be safely imported, backed up, edited and then exported and saved properly then transferred onto your private protected online gallery. All important steps that can not be rushed through. People must remember this is a professional studio with top of the line equipment ( this is not a cellphone app). I do everything here and I do things with the precision of a surgeon. Be patient its worth the wait.
What is the best diet to try before my photo shoot so there is less bloat?
I am not a fan of crash diets.I think the wardrobe styling, prop placement and angles I capture you from can easily shed 20 lbs or more. If you really want to help that along you could cut out alcohol, sodas and sugary stuff or carbs after 5pm that can help with face puffiness. Drink lots of water, eat lean proteins like chicken or fish and vegetables ( not broccoli that causes bloat). I hear eating small palm of your hand sized meals 5-6 times a day speeds up the metabolism. Now I just need to follow that regimen myself! I think people put way to much pressure on themselves "thinking they have to lose weight" for a shoot, You don't.
What if I want to do something unique for my photo shoot?
I absolutely love accommodating my clients ideas for a shoot, the trick is to please call and speak to me before hand so we can figure out how to achieve what you want and what I need to do on my end to make it happen. I have created some amazing sets for shoots in the past but its because there was discussing and planning with those clients ahead of time.
What precautions are you taking since the Covid 19 pandemic?
The first thing I did was replace all of my studio makeup, and got special makeup sanitizers. I spent all the months in quarantine cleaning, and removing anything I felt needed to go. I am only offering two shoot times daily to be able to throughly clean and disinfect all of my tools, brushes, sets, furniture and door handles etc. Any wardrobe that is used by a client is removed from my collection for 2 weeks and properly laundered and disinfected.
We ask clients to do their part by washing their hands, using hand sanitizers that here for your use. Proper PPE will be worn during hair and makeup process, and social distancing during a shoot is easy and how it's always been here. All hand towels, face towels are changed out, and laundered between clients. We have the same CDC recommendations as a spa would and are taking them seriously to ensure a worry free fun time.
Any other concerns please feel free to ask.
NOTE FROM THE OWNER
Please come to my studio with an open heart and mind. We do not tolerate any discrimination or racist remarks. We embrace and love everyone who comes here and want everyone to feel safe and respected in our environment. Arrive with positivity toward yourself and your experience because this is celebration of self love. If you do not respect our boundaries you will be asked to leave.
Where is your studio located?
My studio is located at 59 Main street in the City of Tonawanda NY 14150, the closest cross street is Broad street. Located right next to Atomic Barbershop & Salon. You’ll see the Sweet Heart Pin Up sign out front and pictures hanging in the window.
It is so important that if you GPS to my location be sure its to the 14150 zip code in the city of Tonawanda. If you go to the exact same address but in North Tonawanda you will end up at a church.
Please call me if you get lost, but entering the correct zip will bring you directly to me. I have clients come from all over NY State and NYC, PA, OH, Florida, Texas, California and the Bahamas!
I am very flattered that they do so but I believe they appreciate that I am a female photographer and I do everything in an artistic tasteful way. Looking forward to meeting you soon!
Please call me if you have more questions at (716) 803-5993
I’ll be happy to hear from you and discuss making your photo dreams come true!
I prefer people to arrive with a clean face (no make up or very little makeup)
- For Pin Up styling: please wash your hair 1 day before your shoot.
- For Boudoir styling: please arrive with dry hair. I will not blow dry it, I will not style wet hair.
- For SENIOR PIX OR CORPORATE Head-Shots: arrive with your hair styled and make up on already. I want you to look like you. Bring pressed flattering clothing never all black! Colors, pastels or a pop of color is the best. Never sleeveless, Nothing super baggy that will add bulk in a photo.
Are there extra fees once I arrive?
- If you’d like to arrive with clip in extensions in and you’d like me to curl them that will be an extra fee of $25. If you want me to put them in for you and style them that will be $50 extra. Please make sure they are human hair, synthetic hair can not be curled as effectively.
- If you’d like faux eyelashes to enhance your look. I supply them, size them to your eye shape, apply them and you get to keep them that is a $10 extra fee. ( I will no longer apply lashes people bring for a variety of reasons)
- If your nails are looking rough, I am now offering press-on manicures that last for a week or more for $13-$20.
- Any other extra fees would be if while shooting you decide to add another outfit, set or extra edits. Or you decide you’d like me to make you a hardcover book or calendar those prices can be seen on my menu under prices. Or if you want to bring your pet. You must discuss that with me ahead of time and the pet fee is $50.
Who does the hair and makeup?
I do! I have been doing hair and makeup for photoshoots on ALL SKIN COLORS /HAIR TYPES for over 20 years. I studied make up and have always been a duplicator. If I see a picture of something I can just do it. I offer these services along with my shoots as part of the overall artistry it is what makes my photography unique. I have perfected makeup for camera that is specifically designed to work with the lighting techniques I use here. So I know a lot of gals like to do their own but they will not know how to do it for my camera lighting and I will say it does make a difference.
I also enjoy the process as a way to put you at ease and we can get to know each other- it creates a trust and I think is partly why I have such a high success rate bringing the best out of people.
Note: If you are a hair stylist or make up artist yourself and would prefer to do your own I can absolutely respect that. It will not change the prices of my shoots (because that’s part of artistry included).
I will usually give you a few additional edits instead.
Do you run Specials?
Yes I do. I run them on my Sweet Heart Pin Up facebook and instagram pages. The big difference between my regular priced packages and my specials is time and tailoring. For my “specials” you will only get around 10 minutes of shooting time and I will only allow the sets on "special" to be used.
There are just many limits to them because they are so cheap. Specials are a quickie version of what I do"quick hair, quick makeup, limited sets, 10 mins of shooting time". So when people come to me with wanting a more relaxed experience I have to direct them to my regular priced menu.
For my regular priced packages you get a lot more time and direction, you receive more set options, I will allow more time for personalizing. I spend more time on hair and make up, I really coach people during the shooting session and there’s zero rush. I usually edit 10-30 pictures (depending on the package) for them to choose from and they receive their own online private password protected viewing and shopping gallery.
Their gallery will have anything they’d like to buy prints, digitals, canvas wall art, coffee cups etc. Also their gallery is an online backup of their photographs. They say you get what you pay for and that is very true. If you want the best shoot possible choose a package from my regular menu.
I work really hard and for me to stay in business I must be paid my regular prices. What I offer is worth that and much more.
Why are your prices so reasonable?
When I started my business I really wanted it to be affordable because I believe everyone deserves to feel pretty and glamorous. One of the ways I keep it affordable is that I do not have any employees. I do everything myself. EVERYTHING. So when you are comparing my prices to others know that my prices should be triple what they are.
What sizes in wardrobe do you have?
I have XS-4XL. So anything from a size 2 to a size 24. In the About section, there is a how to book a shoot form so please fill that out and send to me. It makes everything easier once I know your sizes and I can respond and let you know what you should bring.
I think the most common thing people need to bring is a good fitting bra ( black/boudoir or strapless bra/pinup) undies and heels (we have a lot here sizes (6-11) but a photoshoot is a great time to play with those heels you never get to wear).
Usually with wardrobe if you bring some of your things we can mix and match with what I have here and that seems to work the best.
I have surgery scars can you hide them?
Yes! I have had so many ladies here with different things they don't like from a bad tattoo, scars, stretch marks, cellulite, you name it I see it daily. I am super sensitive to women's worries because I am a woman who has had surgeries, who has a belly, big thighs and arms and extra chins. LOL I get it. You want to feel good and look great. That is what I do here. It's my speciality.
I love to prove to all women that the ladies in magazines are just like you. Perfection is a fun idea but its not a reality. Allow your imperfections to be your perfection!
What do I need to Bring?
Bring your own:
- Shoes for Boudoir sexy heels, For Pin Up retro or vintage looking heels ( if you have them)
- For Boudoir sexy Bra's, undies, a black thong. For Pinup shape wear like spanks, or high waisted undies and strapless bras. Creating a great base under the wardrobe is part of why people looking thinner in photos. These items are required! To wear underneath studio's wardrobe even though my costumes are laundered between uses just gives my clients peace of mind.
- Bring something you might want to wear for a photoshoot could be a dress, a corset, bra & panties set etc.
- Jewelry, If you have some fun bling or vintage pieces you are dying to wear bring them.
What Payment do you accept?
I accept cash, checks, credit cards, paypal and venmo. If you want to work out a payment plan before your shoot, you can contact me. The goal is always to have it paid in full by your shoot date. All packages are listed under prices and can be easily purchased by pay pal/venmo. Contact me if you want to pay for a shoot upfront or would like to purchase a gift certificate 716 803-5993.
Can I bring someone with me to the shoot?
I really prefer to work with people one on one, I think people think having someone there will help relax them but its usually the opposite, I notice my clients feel more self conscious. I also do not like when friends come and start directing my shoot, that's not cool. Trust and respect are the secrets to success. I don’t mind if you bring ONE friend they can watch us do makeup and hair, but during the actual photo shoot I will ask them to leave the shooting area. I have a nice waiting room with magazines, or they can check out the other great stores on Main street like Cats' Like Us, Atomic barbershop, Hello sweets, Twin City Deli and Pulp 716. I think a certain magic takes place between artist and muse when we work alone, I consider myself an artist and I take what I do very seriously. I have 100% success rate if people respect my process and trust that I will do a great job making them look their best.
Are prints or digitals included in my photo shoot?
NO. My photo shoots are very reasonably priced. To keep my prices this way I have my clients purchase prints or digital downloads separately. This way they get exactly what they want and spend what they want to spend. After your photo shoot I edit the best photos depending on your package could be 10 could be 30, then I put them on your own private password protected online shopping gallery. I send you an email with a link to it, then you view your photos and purchase the ones you like. Your gallery will have a ton of ordering options any size print, merchandise, digital downloads even photo packages that are all very modestly priced. You choose what’s best for your needs then you order the pictures that YOU like and they get shipped or emailed to YOU directly. All client galleries stay up for 6 months. That is giving you ample time to make purchases.
What am I going to get by coming to you instead of having my friends cousin who owns a camera do it?
Well I love to cook and I own an oven but that doesn't make me a chef. There are a ton of self proclaimed "photographers" out there offering shoots for free or cheap. I have heard nothing but horror stories from clients about bad experiences. From never getting their photos to being put in uncomfortable situations Or just hating every single picture! That will not happen here. Having a professional studio takes many years of knowledge and experience. You have to be licensed and insured, you have to have top of the line equipment and consistently create a quality product. Our studio is so much more than even a regular studio because we provide beautiful wardrobe from all over the world, we have vintage and modern sets, we have shoes in all sizes, jewelry, and props. We provide professional makeup for camera and hairstyling. We also pride ourselves in being able to put all different personality types at ease and find a way to direct them and pose them to get those amazing shots. That is not a SKILL that comes along "buying a camera", that is one LEARNED over 20 years in the photo shoot industry. This is the real deal. This place has a fun vibe with spa like feeling and is a sanctuary of safety.
How long does a boudoir or pinup photo shoot last?
Depends on the shoot, if its a quickie special I’d say 1-2 hours at the most. If it’s a shoot where we have 2 or more wardrobe changes I’d say 3-4 hours. I’m not located at the mall so I don’t have a timer on the table and end your shooting session after 5 minutes. I believe I am successful at getting women to love their photos is because I allow time for them to get comfortable and relax.
I have never done a photo shoot before and I'm nervous, what if I mess up and look bad?
I think 95% of my clients are first timers and you can’t mess up, all you have to do is show up. I do it all. I worked for 13 years in Los Angeles dressing celebrities for photo shoots and events, I did make up and hair and model coached for several photographers. When you come to me you are getting like 5 people in one. I do your hair and makeup, I help pick out your wardrobe by seeing whats most flattering to you, then I take your pictures, while doing that I coach you and help pose you so you get the best result possible. You just have to trust me.
Why does seeing my edited photos take 2-3 weeks?
My editing process begins when I have an editing day which is 1-2 days a week or 3-5 a month. ( if you have a deadline please make me aware of it upon scheduling). I usually have thousands of pictures to sort through and I work on everyone's photos in order as shot. The sorting process takes several hours, then the editing process can be 20 mins- 1 hour per photo. All of your photos have to be safely imported, backed up, edited and then exported and saved properly then transferred onto your private protected online gallery. All important steps that can not be rushed through. People must remember this is a professional studio with top of the line equipment ( this is not a cellphone app). I do everything here and I do things with the precision of a surgeon. Be patient its worth the wait.
What is the best diet to try before my photo shoot so there is less bloat?
I am not a fan of crash diets.I think the wardrobe styling, prop placement and angles I capture you from can easily shed 20 lbs or more. If you really want to help that along you could cut out alcohol, sodas and sugary stuff or carbs after 5pm that can help with face puffiness. Drink lots of water, eat lean proteins like chicken or fish and vegetables ( not broccoli that causes bloat). I hear eating small palm of your hand sized meals 5-6 times a day speeds up the metabolism. Now I just need to follow that regimen myself! I think people put way to much pressure on themselves "thinking they have to lose weight" for a shoot, You don't.
What if I want to do something unique for my photo shoot?
I absolutely love accommodating my clients ideas for a shoot, the trick is to please call and speak to me before hand so we can figure out how to achieve what you want and what I need to do on my end to make it happen. I have created some amazing sets for shoots in the past but its because there was discussing and planning with those clients ahead of time.
What precautions are you taking since the Covid 19 pandemic?
The first thing I did was replace all of my studio makeup, and got special makeup sanitizers. I spent all the months in quarantine cleaning, and removing anything I felt needed to go. I am only offering two shoot times daily to be able to throughly clean and disinfect all of my tools, brushes, sets, furniture and door handles etc. Any wardrobe that is used by a client is removed from my collection for 2 weeks and properly laundered and disinfected.
We ask clients to do their part by washing their hands, using hand sanitizers that here for your use. Proper PPE will be worn during hair and makeup process, and social distancing during a shoot is easy and how it's always been here. All hand towels, face towels are changed out, and laundered between clients. We have the same CDC recommendations as a spa would and are taking them seriously to ensure a worry free fun time.
Any other concerns please feel free to ask.
NOTE FROM THE OWNER
Please come to my studio with an open heart and mind. We do not tolerate any discrimination or racist remarks. We embrace and love everyone who comes here and want everyone to feel safe and respected in our environment. Arrive with positivity toward yourself and your experience because this is celebration of self love. If you do not respect our boundaries you will be asked to leave.
Where is your studio located?
My studio is located at 59 Main street in the City of Tonawanda NY 14150, the closest cross street is Broad street. Located right next to Atomic Barbershop & Salon. You’ll see the Sweet Heart Pin Up sign out front and pictures hanging in the window.
It is so important that if you GPS to my location be sure its to the 14150 zip code in the city of Tonawanda. If you go to the exact same address but in North Tonawanda you will end up at a church.
Please call me if you get lost, but entering the correct zip will bring you directly to me. I have clients come from all over NY State and NYC, PA, OH, Florida, Texas, California and the Bahamas!
I am very flattered that they do so but I believe they appreciate that I am a female photographer and I do everything in an artistic tasteful way. Looking forward to meeting you soon!
Please call me if you have more questions at (716) 803-5993
I’ll be happy to hear from you and discuss making your photo dreams come true!
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