A One-One Interview with Jessica Crespo,
Photographer Extraordinaire at Je Revele
When you look through the lens of your camera, is what you see different than what one might see from normal view?
While I feel like I can identify with most of my clients, I connect often with women who are mothers and wives. I can really relate to them. Sometimes when you become a wife or a mother you feel like you have become someone else- not the cute self you used to be. Being the subject of a photo shoot allows a woman to reclaim herself in a way she may have forgotten who she was and is.
If you could go back and change something related to your education or your life as a student what would you change or what would you do differently?
I think the biggest evolution for me has been that I have transformed from a shy, “little mouse” conservative person into an edgy outgoing, more self-confident and self assured person.
What kind of photography do you do? Do you enjoy it? Why or why not?
I enjoy doing weddings and boudoir photography. I feel as though I have developed a “super power” of empathy and intuition. Having experienced these themes in my own life, my intuition is keenly on-point. I feel a strong connection to my clients during these shoots.
What are the pros and cons of being a photographer? Please be specific.
Being a photographer is very empowering. I have the opportunity to bring so much joy to people. I love being an entrepreneur and taking control of my own destiny. I get to meet lots of interesting people and see wonderful aspects of life. If there are cons, I suppose it’s what people do not realize. Photography isn’t only glamorous. There is a lot of editing, billing and paperwork involved.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you want to be? Why?
I used to think I wanted to be a teacher or a lawyer. Now I know I’d love to be a travel blogger! I’d be able to travel the world, enjoy the cultures and wines of each region and capture my experiences in photographs and in words.
What would you say is most important: good knowledge or good equipment?
It’s not the camera that takes the photograph. Capturing a look requires more than just technique. I like to think that I take photos with my heart.
If you could work alongside of any photographer, who would it be?
I feel privileged to work with Natalie Licini, owner and head photographer at Je Revele. She is a fabulous mentor, full of humility, kindness and patience. And she has a sharp eye!
I also follow and admire the work of Jerry Ghionis, a renowned photographer, based out of Australia. He is known as one of the top 5 wedding photographers in the world. His work is an inspiration to me.
What genre of photography do you least like and why?
I am not a big fan of traditionally posed photographs. For me, it’s like painting. A creative artist enjoys picking up a brush and allowing the brush to be a tool on the canvas. What results, hopefully, is a unique expression. Such a painter would not enjoy the kind of painting one dies when painting a room in a house. Although that kind of painting requires skill and precision, it leaves little room for creativity on the part of the painter. That’s a bit what it’s like for me. Merely positioning people for a traditional, stiff portrait pose does not always allow room for the artistic signature of the photographer. I like to capture each person’s personality, which is often seen through movements and mannerisms, not in sitting still like a statue.
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Je Revele Fine Art Photography Studio & Gallery
433 River Road | Highland Park, NJ 08904 | Studio: 732-964-3773 | Mobile: 917-886-5666
Website: www.jerevele.com | Blog: www.blog.jerevele.com
LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeRevelebyNatalieLicini
International Award Winning Photographer
An Interview with Michelle Ernest, Head Stylist at Je Revele
1. So tell us… What is a day in the life of Michelle Ernest LLC, Head Stylist at Je Revele Fine Art Photography like?
My days start very early. I greet clients as they arrive at the studio since most of our clients have hair and makeup styling added for their shoot. I’m excited I get to work with them. I love that I get to know each client individually, and learn a little about his or her life and intentions for their experience at Je Revele. In addition to hair and make-up styling, I also provide wardrobe consultation, helping accessorize and narrowing down their favorite pieces. Not only do I enjoy being a part of styling and accessorizing the shoot, but I get to see all the beautiful portraits since I handle all viewing appointments at Je Revele. I love helping our clients decide on portrait options for their home. Seeing their faces as they watch the slideshow is truly incredible. It’s a fast moving pace at times and requires stamina, but I keep up pretty well!
2. As a makeup artist and hair stylist, are there any celebrities whom you would aspire to work with someday?
I admire the models employed by Victoria Secret. They have a universally glamorous look; skin tones and shades from all around the world, which all together create the most exotic looks. It’s flawlessness at the most extreme level. Victoria Secret models emote total sexiness.
I’d also love to work on the set for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. They set the stage for upcoming trends for the season.
3. How would you describe your own “look” and what is it about your style that sets you apart from other stylists?
My signature look can be described as romantic. I love to bring out the most feminine and/or glamorous side of the everyday woman. I feel proud when a woman’s appearance is luminous after I’ve worked with her. I’m not a fan of special effects or abstract looks, as it doesn’t realistically translate to what a woman can aspire to look like everyday. My style celebrates diversity as I have worked with every age, gender and skin color, bringing out the individual’s special glow. For me it’s like I get to provide mini-makeovers for REAL women and witness the transformation first hand.
4. What is the most important beauty advice that you can give to women regarding skincare and hair?
The most important advice that I can give to women is to be your self. Confidence will always make you look more beautiful than any hairstyle or layer of makeup. On a confident woman, makeup and the right hairstyle makes her irresistible!
I’d also strongly encourage women to take care of their skin, especially while young. Use sunscreen religiously! Good skin is the best cosmetic. I once read a study about truck drivers. After years had passed, the truck drivers had noticeable effects on their facial skin. The left side of their faces, the side most exposed to the sun as they had been driving, had aged dramatically compared to the right side.
As for hair, be sure to condition it regularly. Hydration is so important! Well moisturized hair and skin is so important. Try not to use too much heat. And when preparing for a big event, such as a prom or wedding, be sure not to dye your hair to close to the event. Give it a few weeks prior to having your hair styled. Be sure to use color-safe products, and a nice deep conditioning treatment every so often always helps.
5. What are some common beauty mistakes that women make?
I think with makeup, less is more. A woman should think about the shape of her eyes and her face when applying makeup. There is no need to follow trends when you discover a look that is right for you. Comparing yourself to others is never helpful.
6. Do you feel that looking and feeling beautiful is important in regard to a woman’s confidence and self-esteem?
Confidence, feeling beautiful is so important to a woman’s self-esteem. I think pampering brings out a woman’s self-confidence. Taking care of yourself is empowering. I think that is why the work that I do at the castle is so effective. The whole experience of preparing for a photo shoot is a huge confidence booster, which later translates well in the actual photographs.
7. Do you feel that you have achieved all of your goals as a successful stylist?
I feel that because I am so early into my career, I still have so many aspirations and accomplishments to look forward to. I am proud that I have already achieved so much in my early twenties as a business owner. In my industry, there are so many paths to consider. A large part of what I currently do is beauty consultation. Perhaps someday I will explore this as a more in-depth venture. And for now, I really enjoy styling weddings. I am a makeup artist for NJ weddings and hair stylist too. I have a talented team that works with me styling weddings in the NYC metro area.
8. Who are some people that have inspired you throughout your career?
I can’t really think of specific people, as I find inspiration in most people and event I encounter. I am amazed by the ways that a simple conversation with a client can lead me to a wonderful product or realization about life. Having real people come into the castle and transform is a wonderful reoccurring reminder of all of the possibilities there are in life.
9. Do you see yourself someday creating your own line of beauty products?
I am pleased to say that I am already looking into creating skincare products. Eventually, I’d like to create my own line of products for the everyday woman. One day, I hope to say I will be able to share them with everyone.
10. What are some of your favorite products on your styling table?
Generally speaking, I use a lot of MAC products, because of their heavily pigmented colors. I have a variety of mascaras and blushes as well. I like to use Hypnose mascara by Lancome, paired with a good lash primer.
11. What products do you think should be a staple in every woman’s purse?
Staples for every woman’s purse are lipstick/lip gloss/Chap Stick, translucent powder compact, blush, and mascara.
12. In an overall look, what is more important- hair or makeup?
I think it’s important to make sure both hair and makeup is balanced. You don’t want one to overpower the other. Both are equally of importance in a beauty regime. I recommend setting the hair style first, then completing the make-up application, followed by completing the hair style for the finished look.
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Additional info about Michelle Ernest, head stylist at Je Revele on our website here: https://www.jerevele.com/WorldofJeRevele/The-Team/
~Charity
Director of Social Media
Je Revele Fine Art Photography Studio & Gallery
433 River Road | Highland Park, NJ 08904 | Studio: 732-964-3773 | Mobile: 917-886-5666
Website: www.jerevele.com | Blog: www.blog.jerevele.com
LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeRevelebyNatalieLicini
International Award Winning Photographers
Photography workshop by Nik Pekridis at the Je Revele Castle with Natalie Licini in New Jersey October 15, 16 & 17th, 2013
Led by one of the world’s leading wedding photographers, with multiple awards and accolades from around the world. A respected judge at photographic institutions and societies around the world like the WPPI USA , SWPP UK and PWS Greece. Nik Pekridis is a passionate image maker who has clients from around the globe, high society… pop stars, and even royalty!
Join us and experience the adventure that will rocket you and your business to new heights of success. Niks’ calm and assured guidance and training is unparalleled.
Are you looking to kick-start your career… maybe you’re looking for a one stop shop workshop to get you up there. Everything is open to discussion in a cheerful, friendly and concise way – Nik is an open book.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
Watch as Nik masterfully explores the world of photography and shows you the methods and techniques he adopts for winning Gold Class Awards time and time again.
Learn with him as he shows you the most explosive and innovative methods of leaving the competition in ashes – forget dust – Ashes!
Experience live demonstrations of absolutely everything. Nothing is too much or little, too long or too short. Everything is laid bare and explained in such an easy way that with no effort at all you will fit it all into your normal workflow.
Lead the field and find out the amazing way Nik gets clients and destinations shoots day after day and always at HIS price!
The Power is in your hands as Nik will cover and uncover:
Do you SEE the light? What color is it? What is the direction, quality, and type of light? How does it make you FEEL?
Nik discusses the characteristics of light and most importantly HOW we use light to mold and contour and wrap around a human form to best show the most delicate of textures and three dimensionality. The end result? Depth and Emotion. Thus you create a feeling of being there – of actually living, feeling and breathing it all in.
This is it – you learn within minutes, yes literally minutes, how you can, with just a simple technique make a 2D image like 3D one which is full of life, emotion and grit. Just like the master artists did with their finest creations and who still today continue to do so. This will be the foundation for everything else.
Here is a brief outline:
Day One: 10AM – 5PM
Nik Pekridis will start the class off with a welcome presentation.
Class introduction.
The core of photography will be covered: from basic to advanced to get you up and running in no time. You will have a lot of AHA moments. Things will click into place.
Some of the things you will learn are lighting, molding light to body forms, posing singles, couples, plus size brides, a tall and short couple, using off camera flash and continuous lighting, shooting for the product, PJ storytelling, camera techniques and best practice workflow and much much more!
Critique of images – please bring couple of your best images on a USB stick. The critique is anonymous and students will find the information to be extremely helpful and positive to their continued growth and development.
Day Two 930AM – 5PM
Shooting!
This will be a fun day of photographing at a picturesque location. Natalie Licini’s studio is in a historic castle in Highland Park, just 40 minutes outside of New York City. In addition to the spectacular indoor photos, we’ll be able to shoot on the grounds of this historic castle.
There will be 2 couples. You will get the opportunity to see how Nik beautifully poses, directs and shoots.
This will be followed by the students practicing and building the skills of what they’ve learnt over the two days by posing and photographing the models. This will be all about the students and developing their skill-set.
Please bring your cameras on this day along with 1 or 2 of your favorite lenses, and if you wish wireless transmitters and video lights.
This is also the Eve that everyone will eat/drink in the evening together…some of you till the early hours of the morning lol
Day Three 10AM – 5PM
This is the classroom day where the following subjects shall be covered my Nik and Natalie;
Branding and brand identity, workflow, post-production, album designs, sales & marketing. You’ll be able to see first hand how a high end studio is owned and operated from the inside.
Towards the latter portion of the day there will be an open Q&A session so get your brains working on what you want to ask asap!
Please bring a laptop with Lightroom or Photoshop if you wish Nik to assist you with anything.
IMPORTANT
The timetable and structure of the workshop may change.
Day 2 – the hands on photography day may be switched to day 3 and is dependent upon the weather conditions at the time. We will let you all know by the end of play on day 1.
We look forward to this intense, and jam-packed workshop. Whether you’re a full time photographer or a weekend warrior you will be delighted at the wealth of knowledge imparted here.
***For a look inside Nik’s recent workshop check out this highlight video: http://www.photopek.com/workshop.aspx
Fees:
3 day workshop at the Je Revele Castle: $700 pp
***EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: $495 pp (Book before July 31, 2013)
Hotel & Travel Information:
For your convenience, the Hilton and Hyatt Hotels are located minutes away from the Je Revele Castle in Highland Park. The Hyatt Hotel is located at 2 Albany St New Brunswick, NJ 08901. For reservations: (732) 873-1234 website: newbrunswick.hyatt.com. The Hilton Hotel is located 2 miles away at 3 Tower Center Blvd East Brunswick, NJ 08816. For reservations: (732) 828-2000 website: hilton.com. If you’re interseted in sharing a room with another attendee contact Nik or Natalie.
Trains:
For our guests staying in NYC, we are just a 45/50 minute train. The Je Revele studio is offering roundtrip transport to/from the train.
Airport:
The Je Revele castle is located close to Newark International Airport: http://www.panynj.gov/airports/newark-liberty.html. JFK Airport and LaGuardia Airport are alternatives, but Newark is very convenient.
Any questions feel free to message Nik or Natalie – See You Soon!!!!
&
Natalie Licini
Je Revele Fine Art Photography Studio & Gallery
433 River Road | Highland Park, NJ 08904 | Studio: 732-964-3773 | Mobile: 917-886-5666
Website: www.jerevele.com | Blog: www.blog.jerevele.com
LIKE us on Facebook & receive $25 Credit: https://www.facebook.com/JeRevelebyNatalieLicini
International Award Winning Photographer
2012 PPA Photographer of the year
New Jersey Wedding Photographers Collection of Inspirational Quotes
How many times have you fallen in love and just allowed yourself to be swept away?
~Audrina Patridge
This quote is part of a collection of inspirational quotes about life, love, family, leadership and much much more.
Feel free to share this, PIN this and follow me on Pinterest.
~Natalie
BEST MARRIAGE PROPOSAL EVER? YOU TELL US YOUR STORY OR A FRIENDS… then CAST YOUR VOTE & WIN!
Thanksgiving through Valentine’s day is the most popular time of year to get engaged. So many exciting proposals – but what is the BEST proposal?
PLEASE JOIN US IN A LITTLE FUN!
What was THE BEST proposal ever? Share your story or a friends story. The proposal could have taken place anytime, this year or 1950, 1980, ANY year – no restrictions when. We would love to hear all of the best proposals over the last 50+ years.
FIRST, we’d like to enlist your help. Please submit the story of your proposal or a friends story with a photo (any photo) to info@jerevele.com. Don’t forget, to qualify, we need (1) your story (2) any photo of the couple emailed to info@jerevele.com. They could be married 50 years, 10 years or newly engaged. No restrictions there!
SECOND, We will narrow down to a few nominees which may be an impossible task in itself!.
THIRD: Now, we’d like you to vote on YOUR favorite proposal. Ask your family and friends, to vote too! The more, the merrier. For the couple with the most votes (LIKES), the winning client shall receive $500 studio credit.
PART THREE CON’T: YOUR ASSIGNMENT
From the following gallery of couples and proposals, find the ONE you love. Which moves you? Makes you laugh? Stirs your soul? Is it you in the image? Your child? Your family? GET FRIENDS AND FAMILY INVOLVED TO HELP YOU WIN! The more, the merrier. Cast your vote with a “LIKE”, vote and feel free to comment to enter your chance to win.
PRIZES: Grand prize: $500 studio credit
1st place: $250 studio credit
2nd place: $100 studio credit
3rd place: $50 studio credit
As you know, the image with the most votes (LIKES), the winning client shall receive a $500 studio credit.
Winners announced 3.1.13.
Much Love,
Natalie
