I tried very, very hard not to be a photographer. I designed clothes, became a chef, sold Noguchi light sculpture, ran a brand strategy agency…all to avoid ending up where I am today. Photography was always there though, in the background as I ran from shiny thisto shiny that, until I finally gave into it. Until I finally said, okay let's do this. I'm tired of running. And when I did, everything dropped into place in a way it never would before, no matter how hard I worked or what I tried. Since that moment my life and love for the work I get to do, aligned. What of those shiny this's and that's? Those skills, I came to realize later were transferrable, setting me up nicely to make the Goldenbrand a special place for you. Why am I sharing all of this with you? I know this will find just the person who needs to hear it today and I hope it encourages you to take a chance on that thing scratching at the back of your head. You know the one I mean.
SCROLL DOWN FOR THIS WEEK'S GOODIES
Spotlight.
If it's good enough for British Vogue….
We love seeing virtual photography in the spotlight. Royal photographer Misan Harrimanphotographed them virtually using an iPad while he was in London and they were in Santa Barbara, California.
Focus.
VALENTINE. Yes, we shared this one last week but we love it so much we've added more songs — and are sharing it again.
Develop.
You've just wrapped your professional photography photoshoot and if you’re anything like us, you are giddy with excitement awaiting that email notification saying Your gallery is ready! With good reason too. For months you planned and prepared for the project and now it's time to see the rewards of your labor. Before you start blasting them all over social, here's what you should do next.
Extra.
I made this recipe for the first time in my tiny catering kitchen 20 years ago, and they quickly because a client favorite. Back then, visiting Surfas in LA was the equivalent of a weekly Target run but, instead of paper towels, I was buying Wonka sized 11 lb blocks of Callebaut Bittersweet Chocolate and chopping them up to make truffles for parties, weddings, and private jets (I know, so very LA).
If you're looking for a decadent everyday treat or something sweet for your loved ones on Valentines Day, you'll adore this quick Chocolate Truffle recipe — with several variations to choose from you'll want to bookmark this recipe and try them all.
Tone.
Weekly visual inspiration and mood boards.
Hands. Inspired by a Sunday Stories subscriber question below regarding the awkwardness of posing hands in portraits. Click on the image for even more ideas.
Photographers Choice.
This post is giving you all the black and white inspo.
Ikea has a new Artist in Residence. Annie Leibovitz
Marie Kondo is done Tidying Up. She is now sparking new joy.
Anthroplogie partnered with Jerrelle Guy, star baker and author of the Black Girl Baking cookbook, for a collection of bakeware and kitchenware. Take a peek, it's gorgeous.
Wonder why our emails look so pretty? Click here to for 50% off Flodesk.
How did you do with dark and moody last week?
DM'ing my friends every time this account has an estate sale.
Q's.
Have a question? Sunday Stories subscribers may submit them here.
Q. I never think about my hands…until I get in front of the camera. I'm suddenly aware of how awkward and bizarre they seem. I'm grateful for any tips you have for me.
A. The good news is you aren't alone, being in front of the camera brings a new level of self-awareness and it's easy to feel uncomfortable. I recommend saving static (headshot) poses for the end of your session, if possible. Goldenbrand sessions usually start with movement to get my clients laughing and comfortable with me and the camera. If your shoot is shorter without time to warm up, I recommend studying a mood board of images with hand poses you like. Try mimicking them beforehand so they feel natural in front of the camera. Finally, check for tension in your hands during the session. Make sure you aren't gripping, balling your fingers into fists, or hiding your hands. Click on the above mood board for more ideas!
We think you'll love this post next.
Comments