Creative play days are opportunities for me to collaborate with other professionals, learn new techniques, and expand my portfolio. Things I tested this time around: Gelling a white background, using a printed background, creating depth in the studio, experimenting with an optical spot, and making partial silhouettes. Controlling the light for these looks challenged me, but the creativity and problem solving required was as much play as it was work.

I take the lessons learned from creative days into regular sessions with clients, using new techniques when they serve to elevate the shoot. Shout-out to wardrobe stylist, Kathy Friend, who also works with me on my client sessions. All of those little style details, even beyond the clothing–the jewelry, shoes, and sometimes hair accessories and miscellaneous props–can be credited to her imagination and fashion sense. Thanks also to Ally at Lips and Lashes by Crazy Aimee, who is responsible for the variety of hair and makeup looks in this shoot.

And finally, we have our talent, Kate. I asked her to model because, obviously, she is absolutely gorgeous. But I also needed a dedicated ballet dancer. Her expressive eyes, freckles, and dramatic dark hair were icing on the cake. Most importantly, she was game for anything I asked and helped make the session that much more fun.