Interior Magician

I introduced you to Lizzy last week.

I wasn’t sure where we we go with my home. I love my home, but while I have an eye for photography, and can put together a mean gallery, I do NOT have an eye for interior design. She swept through, and pointed out little changes we could make that would cost little, but have a big impact and pull the place together.

For example? She brought over baskets, so I could empty my games cluttering the corner into zip bags and tuck them away.

She pointed out that my living room rug was too small, and thus made the room look more diminutive. So I bought a new one off a neighbor for $18, and then was able to move the old one to the basement to make the sitting area more cohesive.

But the piece de resistance? She narrowed in on my most loathed spot: the entryway. When our house was remodeled in the 90’s, the original entryway that led into the kitchen was closed off, so the main room could be opened. That left us with a dark narrow hallway at the entrance. The surprise on people’s faces, when they emerged from the canal and actually saw light again was amusing, but it was such a sad start to a visit.

BEFORE:

She started throwing around foreign terms: Wainscotting? Board and Batten? She started showing me images, and I knew she was on to something. She asked where my guests hang their belongings, and I jokingly made a motion over the house. “Let’s fix that. And we’ll bring in colors from your dining room chairs, so there’s a flow from the entry into the house.”

DURING:

The results? I’m excited to usher people into the home. The space has color and purpose, despite its size, without looking even more cramped.

AFTER:

I had spent years lamenting: I can’t build a closet, I can’t fit a table, I guess I’m just stuck. Lizzy’s creativity breathed fresh air into a space I considered hopeless.
Hunt down Lizzy here!

Lizzy: Interior Designer

This was a fun twist, for us both, I think.
On a mom board, Lizzy posted: “I’m an interior designer looking for headshots for a rebrand/podcast launch that I’m doing! Any photographers that would want to trade a photo shoot for a room makeover??”

There were already a ton of responses from talented photographers. I shrugged my shoulders, figured that could be fun, and threw my hat into the ring, expecting nothing.

Next thing I knew, we were meeting for coffee and making plans! I was floored that she said she found my work memorable and wanted to move forward.

Meet Lizzy!

Lizzy earned her Residential Interior Design Certification from Kennesaw State University and is a member of the DSA.

But also? Lizzy is married to a police officer, with whom she has four kids and a bunch of chickens. And is active in their faith and church. And teaches preschool AND yoga. And loves antiquing.

Check out her website, Facebook, and Instagram!

Next blog: check out what she had in mind for my entryway!

Shayna Image Times Square Billboard

Never thought I'd see the day.
Growing up, I imagined myself on Broadway.

This was not what I had in mind…

But isn’t life strange?

My images are amongst those on a billboard in NYC's TIMES SQUARE. 1500 Broadway and West 43rd Street. Featuring Jodi Wittenberg and Dr. Tate!

Which is insane. And heartbreaking. Because I never thought my work would be used in the Orthodox Union's fight against antisemitism. I hoped it would never be necessary.

Also featuring images by Israel Brass, Danny Diamond, Dina Bookmyer, and Zusha Goldin.

A Hug for Floridians

Deanna and her family were looking for a different communal vibe, and four distinct annual seasons.

After relocating her family from Boca Raton, Florida to Atlanta, Georgia, Deanna is launching her counseling private practice. While the move was overall very positive, the one loss was leaving a job she adored. Licensed in Florida, she is taking on clients virtually.

Thank you to Rina Pollack for the beautiful makeup!

When you sit with Deanna, its clear she’s patient, thoughtful, curious, and ready to listen and guide.

Visit her website!

The Cellist

One day, a cello walks into a studio…

The punchline is that beautiful music was made.

Roee (sometimes Roy) was long overdue to update his headshot. We thought it best to do something expected, classic:

…but Roee also wanted something fun…

We were joined in the studio by his fantastic wife, Kelli, who honored me with some BTS images.

Not only is Roee available for weddings, but he gives lessons as well. Reach out to him at https://royharran.com/

The World Awaits

Mamie bounces into the studio full of life, despite being dampened by the rain. Talking to her is refreshing, and I’m instantly 22 again myself. Having just graduated (though unlike her, I didn’t crush through both an undergrad and a masters in Economics in 4 years…), and starting with a new company, a world of opportunity is on the horizon. The company isn’t totally new to her, she was onboarded by Palisades Hudson Financial Group, with whom she interned. She loves the stability, balance, and people at Palisades Hudson, and looks forward to also using her talents in side projects down the road, to help those in need.

What really warmed me was the email from her after I sent her image: “Just wanted to say thank you again for an easy and enjoyable shoot on Monday (and the bag of rice, lol⋆). I like the picture more than I would've ever expected. I really appreciate your work on this and will keep you in mind if I ever have any photography needs in ATL in the future!”

⋆(her phone was wet)
Gotta say, the feeling is mutual.

I’m grateful to Paul Jacobs, Managing Vice President at Palisades Hudson Financial Group. After working with his family and wife a handful of times, he thought of me when they needed an image for Mamie. Continued clients are absolutely the best clients.

Transitioning to Help CEOs Transition

After years in the executive recruitment space, Lee is transitioning to a new angle. With this expertise in his back pocket, he’s now discreetly preparing top CEO’s who are looking to transition to their own new opportunity.

Let me introduce you to MaxBridge, which assists you in developing and executing a search strategy specifically tailored to your career needs and aspirations. They offer a concierge, results-based approach for the Executive on an adventure.

Lee is confident, focused, and charming. You will enjoy the process, and never doubt you are in the care of talent. Check out his website here.

Daniela Sparks Teens

With 3 kids 2 and under, New York was feeling too small for Daniela and her family. They wanted to move to a vibrant city with space to breathe and a friendly community with playdates for her growing family. Having supportive family already in Atlanta made it more enticing. With her degree in Social Work, she bid adieu to her role as a counselor in a performing arts school, and opened up Spark Teens Coaching.

Here at Spark Teens, our mission is simple: to provide tailored guidance and support to teens and their families. Drawing from a foundation of listening, collaboration, and a genuine passion for addressing the unique challenges teens encounter, we are dedicated to sparking positive change by helping teens reach their highest potential with confidence and resilience.”

Daniela works with teens and their families to focus on an issue, create a plan, and IMPLEMENT it.
Here’s what I can promise about Daniela: she’s incredibly easy to talk to. She’s open, friendly, and vibrant. I know she came in for a branding session, but I felt like we were “out for coffee.” I can imagine being a teen and finding her comforting, safe, and relatable.

Spark Teens Website
Spark Teens Instagram

The First Steps in a Journey

My first memory of Miri was seeing her push her single buggy past my home on her regular strolls with her husband. Little did I know soon she’d have a double-stroller, and they’d one day make my home/studio the destination to capture her beautiful family.

She began talking to me about a session soon after the birth of her second. She came to the studio to check out the artwork in person, and talk through all our options. As he neared his first birthday, she was ready, and so were her kiddos, with their beaming smiles.

I know it can be intimidating, bringing littles, hoping it works out. This was the day after the time change, so they were already in their “witching hour,” and naps hadn’t been successful. But when our goal is focused, rather than our goal just being to make them perform for an hour, then we can put our energy into nailing what we need, and stop shooting at the first signs of angst.

We shot the first images on the trails in the woods behind the studio, and then ran to the front of the house to chase the sun for individuals of the kids.

Miri had the perfect space for her collection. We had a great time exploring the different sizing and configuration options.

She loved the funky vibe of the square prints, but wanted a touch more room and emphasis on the whole family. These will be matte floating metals.

Next? I send to print, and then head over there to install them! I can’t wait to see them up. A journey worth every step.

Both Sides

I’ve been doing the photography for Stein Law since 2017, but this was a totally different ballgame!

They’re doing a total brand overhaul. With the addition of a new teammate, they also are working with a marketing company that sent over a Photography Art Direction packet.

In it, it outlined the specific blue they needed in some of their images, along with a totally fun concept: each person should have a formal headshot- but when you hover over the headshot, it switches to a casual portrait that showcases their personality. I LOVE IT!!

Is it obvious we had a lot of fun on set?

We ran with the idea, creating a couple sets of group shots that showed both.

Stein Law has been assisting their clients in Corporate Services, Tax Planning and Controversy, and Estate Planning for two decades. Not only do they have the smarts, but the personality, too!


https://steinlawllc.com/

Together, Not Together

If there’s only one thing I can gift my kids, for them to pass down to future generations, it is this.

Time is precious, we’re all changing so quickly. The opportunity to mark this time is now.

My sister and her family were in the country for the first time in a year and a half. I had been aching to have this. Getting everyone in the studio simultaneously would have been a challenge. Instead, I booked everyone in slots over the course of two days. Each unit was able to select their favorite version of themselves, and then I combined them into one piece.

This also gave me the ability to create subset groupings, to gift for Chanukkah. (Not so much a surprise…)

I’m feeling how critical family is. This moment won’t live on, but this piece of artwork for my home will.

Fujiyama Wealth Management

Are You Facing Financial Transition?

Whatever transition you’re facing (divorce, inheritance, retirement…), wait to make your next move until you learn how to successfully navigate your journey with the help of Fujiyama Wealth Management. They’ll ease you through things like planning retirement, getting an inheritance, selling your business, and loss of spouse.

I first met Junko Horvath at a talent night at our Synagogue. She had no idea what I did, until I was a suggested connection on LinkedIn.

Her daughter was in town briefly, and she wanted to snag the opportunity to update their marketing images, as she’s a member of the team from afar.

Chris met me eagerly at the door, and we discussed potential backdrops. While their stunning office is a part of the “King/Queen” complex, I wanted to showcase them, rather than their jaw-dropping building.

Chris is just as impressive as the company, he told me he was off to run the Chicago Marathon, raising money for charity.

Junko is also author of the book, “Women in Financial Transition.”

Reach out to Fujiyama Wealth Management at their website: https://www.fujiyamawealth.com/

Real Estate Expertise That Feels Like a Party

Ann Scoggins and Lea Long have been there and done that in the Real Estate world. As seasoned professionals, they decided to join forces and create a brand new realty team, Anlea.

They aren’t going it alone. They assembled a powerhouse team of women, with Julie Groke, Martine NG, Michele Collier, and Cher Wichman at their sides.

But it’s not just their know-how that makes you want to work with them. Let me tell you this, working with these women all day was an absolute riot.

We couldn’t stop cracking up. The whole crew was working so hard: our goal was big, and the session was long. But the attitudes were phenomenal.

With Anlea, you are looking at experience, power, and ladies you want to hang out with all day long.

All The Law (Todo Del Ley)

Rabbi Chaim Lindenblatt is a Rabbi. And an attorney. Which makes sense, as both delve into the application of the law.

After the passing of a friend and colleague, Rabbi Lindenblatt is stepping in, and taking over his practice. He’s a defense attorney, working specifically with the Latin community. He needed an image for their flyer that featured both him and his talented translator, Janet. He wanted something that looked warm, welcoming, and professional.

If you or anyone you know needs their assistance, reach out to rabbichaimlaw@gmail.com

Bat Mitzvah, Milestones Together

I think most people who know me, know I (and my family) am friends with this family.

But did you know I was their photographer first?

They hired me for a family session, the gallery wrap still stands on their mantle (soon to be replaced by one from this session!!) We didn’t know each other prior, but hit it off instantly. By the end of the session, they were urging me to move to their neighborhood, and join a women’s trip to Israel.

And the rest, they say, is history.

This is my fourth session with the Kahn family. But more than that, this is five years of amazing friendship. From family trips to mad cocktail experiments, we’ve been such a match.

But let’s get to the point of it all. Naomi. While I’m obviously fond of the parents, our daughters are fond of each other. Watching their friendship blossom through the years has been so lovely to watch. And now this beautiful and thoughtful girl has reached Bat Mitzvah, and we are so delighted to celebrate her.

She’s polite, and radiant, and so good with her brothers.

Speaking of brothers… Yosef needed a moment. He had us in absolute stitched the entire session.

Mazal tov to the Kahn family! May we have only Simchas!

Behind the scenes

Beautiful Change

Randy was in a nervous rush, trying to get a headshot in by Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta’s deadline. She had been accepted into the new cohort of “Agents of Change,” and didn’t know a portrait was part of the process. She Googled “Headshots Atlanta,” and found my website.

But there are no accidents. She was dreading the process, but said as she poked around my site, she began to feel reassured. This would not be painful! She was meant to come to my studio, where I would hold her hand through the process.

There is so much to admire about Randy. She, like so many of us, has been dealt some real challenges. But she sees and moves through them. She remains focused, centered, and loving. She sees opportunity and beauty. And in our session, I hope she saw her own beauty.

Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta found a true Agent of Change. Randy has so much to offer the world. Seeing it through her eyes, for even a moment, was changing for me.

Behind the scenes

They Smile, You Smile

I LOVE WHEN THIS FAMILY COMES TO THE STUDIO!!!!

This is the second year creating a family image for their holiday card. They are just straight up models. The come in, stand with ease, connect to one another, and then flash some megawatt smiles. Boom.

And then we sit around, chilling, chatting, talking about vacation plans. We probably spend more time hanging out than actually shooting. Because, trust me, you want to hang out with the Kosoff family. You don’t want them to leave. All of them equally. The kids are just as relaxed and engaging as the adults.

Do I still have their photo on the mantel? Why yes, yes I do. Because looking at their card is a guaranteed smile, every time.

Smiling Early Bird

“Headshot clients never turn into family clients.”
I stand corrected.

Because almost a year and a half after Amy’s and my session, she returned, flushed, exhausted, grateful, and excited, to the studio, this time with baby in arms. 8:00 in the morning, because when Baby’s happy, it’s go time.

She had imagined her precious Blessing to be pushing up on my white fuzzy blanket…

But parents dancing around, shaking maracas and a singing Mr. Elephant, she smiled with glee in the rocking chair, and we had to have that picture, too.

One we’re printing as a glossy floating metal, and the other as a bookshelf print. Both guaranteed to keep admirers smiling.

I’m overjoyed to begin this journey of documenting this family’s growth.

Behind the scenes

Batsheva: Faces of Orthodoxy

I was thrilled to be hired as the photographer for Faces of Orthodoxy Season 6 Atlanta (backed by the Orthodox Union). They profiled 6 movers and shakers, to tell their dynamic stories, and show the world that Orthodox people are relatable, rather than exotic or strange as seen in the media.

Week one: Batsheva Gelbtuch

“ I was raised in Israel in Chareidi society which is often categorized as insular. My father broke all stereotypes. His shtreimel & deep-rooted beliefs in the Chassidic way of life coexisted with his love of Zionism. He insisted on serving in the IDF despite a heart condition. My father was a lover of all humans. Growing up we weren’t allowed to use the word ‘chiloni,’ secular, when referring to non-observant Jews. Every Jew is holy.

I had a wonderful Bais Yaakov high school experience in Jerusalem. I was surrounded by strong, brilliant & brave women. We were encouraged to be inquisitive & to challenge the lessons in order to learn & grow.

Despite coming from a loving & nurturing nuclear family, there was darkness in my childhood. 3 out of my 4 grandparents survived the horrors of the Holocaust. Their open wounds served as the backdrop of painful familial dynamics. Wanting to have the tools to support those experiencing trauma fueled my desire to become a social worker. I received my master's at Wurzweiler & became a licensed marriage & family therapist. 19 years ago, my husband at the time & I moved to Atlanta. He had joined the Atlanta Scholars Kollel to do college campus outreach & I worked in private practice while teaching about Judaism on campus. When Atlanta joined the first JWRP trip for moms to Israel, I was tapped to help lead the Atlanta cohort. This became the birthplace of Jewish Women’s Connection of Atlanta, a thriving community of spiritually seeking women in Atlanta.

If I could define the common thread woven in the tapestry of my life, it would be finding beauty in holding space for the entirety of the diversity. I am divorced & am blessed to be raising 4 amazing humans. I am inspired by the way my children overcome their challenges & have created incredibly beautiful, unique life paths. Doing life is challenging. But I have learned that every dark path I needed to traverse was eclipsed by light, often in the form of angelic friends. Find your people. They are there. Don’t do it alone.

JWC Atlanta was founded & led by a team of diverse brilliant lay leaders who make the magic happen. It’s an organization by women for women. It started with that first cohort that went on that first Israel trip. They wanted to ensure that every Jewish woman in Atlanta had access to that wealth of Jewish wisdom & spiritual anchoring they experienced. JWC Atlanta’s goal is to connect women to themselves, to each other & to Hashem. Together we've built a spiritual community that unites women through friendship, learning & Jewish values, which in turn impacts women, their families & the Atlanta Jewish community. And there it is again, that familiar heart tug, my father's whisper, embracing the entirety of the diversity, & that our beauty as a people (and in all aspects) is borne from the differences & not the similarities.

My partner in crime is Julie Silverman who is my Rebbitzen, mentor & dear friend. Every day, we & our incredible staff & brilliant educators & lay leaders get to meet and learn Torah with thousands of brave incredible Jewish moms who are in the trenches ensuring a bright Jewish future for their families & the world at large. Our sages teach us that moms are the future of the Jewish people. What started as a grassroots effort morphed into a thriving community of thousands of Jewish women. To date, JWC Atlanta has had 1000s of women attend classes, join programs & travel all around the globe and explore our Judaism & what it means to us. I’m so blessed to currently work full-time as executive director for this thriving organization (my therapist role is on hold for the time being).

What’s the main thing women are seeking? I think it's anchoring and connection. We all want to be a part of a bigger story than ourselves. We want to find ways we can lead lives of meaning & impact. Meaning & connection is oxygen; we can’t live without it.”

BTS photos and brilliant eye: Yelena Hertzberg. I’d like her to come with me on every photoshoot ever.