As one of the very few photographers (if any) that offer authentic Retro PinUp sessions in Ottawa, I must say each portrait session is truly unique and you never know what to expect. When Miss J came to the studio and asked if we could incorporate our studio mascot, Koko, into her session because of her love of animals (so much so that she devotes her life and her career to them), I was all for it! Luckily the little furball (who normally isn’t even allowed in the studio) was more than accommodating. And lucky for Miss J, he was not fully grown yet, still a kitten and therefore fairly easy to benchpress, lol!
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So with a little mix of 50’s pinup with some Old Hollywood, here’s what Miss J had to say about her glorious experience with je m’adore fine art portraits:
Q: What’s going on in your life right now that motivated you to do a session?
Miss J: My partner was leaving the country for several months and I wanted a gift for him. I’ve also always wanted to have some professional photographs done (a gift for me too!) so the timing seemed right.
Q: Besides beautiful photographs, what else did you hope to get out of the experience?
Miss J: I was looking to have fun and enjoy the challenge of trying to take direction and pose!
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Q: How long had you been considering doing a shoot before you booked yours? What was the final push? What did it feel like to finally book your session?
Miss J: I emailed the same day I thought of doing the shoot. The idea had been on the back burner for years but once I saw Suzanne’s work and website and knew it would be the perfect gift the decision was rather impulsive! It felt great to just book it.
Q: Before your session, how would you describe your relationship with your body, your beauty and your sensuality?
Miss J: I’ve always had to work hard to stay at a healthy weight (I gain easily and am very muscular) but I have a good relationship with my body. In the last few years I’ve come to really appreciate my athletic physique and strength, it’s been so easy to take for granted when health is good!
Q: How did doing a session affect how you feel about your body, your beauty and your sensuality?
Miss J: The session really required me to be acutely in touch with my body and expressions and Suzanne was great at directing me and keeping me relaxed. I’ve rarely paid so much attention to my posture and face!
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Q: What were you worried about before your session? What helped to overcome that?
Miss J: I was nervous about the pin up expressions and poses as they are so unnatural for me. I’m very introverted and shy! Suzanne was very easy going and relaxed and also willing to demonstrate what she was looking for and that really helped.
Q: Tell me about your session day: How did you feel on your way over? What were your favorite parts? How did you feel on the way home?
Miss J: I was excited but nervous. I really enjoyed all of it but I think the challenge of trying to follow direction was fun. I also really enjoyed getting all glammed up and feeling gorgeous. My day job keeps me in long johns and toques, far from glamourous, so it was such a nice treat! On the way home I just felt high and happy!
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Q: What were you feeling when you saw your photos at the viewing?
Miss J: I was a little self conscious to start. Once I saw the photos, it was overwhelming … they turned out beautifully!
Q: Why did you decide to hire me as your photographer?
Miss J: I researched photographers who do pinup in Toronto and Ottawa. Your website, work, and reviews were by far the best. I also knew after our initial meeting that you’d be a good fit. I knew I wouldn’t feel judged but instead supported and just at ease.
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Q: If your friend were considering doing a shoot, what would you say to encourage her?
Miss J: Go for it!!!
