Surfs Up in October!

This sun-kissed image is honoring the start of Surf season here in Nor Cal (which starts in October and goes throughout winter), leading to the great Mavericks in Feb/March. As I was anticipating some nice cool autumn weather this week and planning hearty fall recipes (like roasted acorn squash with cinnamon...) temps soared over the Bay Area, making me think of a classic surf film, The Endless Summer. I photographed this lovely real-life surfer girl (a total sweetheart) in my studio, but layered the image with watercolor effects. Hope you like it as much as I do! Enjoy! And now booking holiday sessions! xoxo Kelly 

 

Make-Up and Hair Styling by Ann Ho

Lady in Blue

Never judge a dress on it's hanger. That's my motto. I love it when clients bring in outfits that initially surprise me but end up photographing remarkably well for pin-ups. This lovely lady had a beautiful wrap dress but I wasn't sure at first how it would work with poses. Once she put it on, the royal blue just fit perfectly with her petite figure and it inspired us to do an "Elvgren" style shot. It ended up being one of my favorites! With the telephone and rose, it's such a classic! Let me know if you have an outfit you think would make a classic modern pin-up! And remember, never judge a dress until you try it on! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-up Styling by Emily Nguyen

Gentlemen Prefer Reds :-)

This month seemed to pass in a blink of an eye...I guess because I've been having loads of fun photographing some really gorgeous redheads in August! So it gives me great pleasure to share with you this recent picture of a lovely gal with the sweetest personality to match. I love this outfit she styled herself with the sweater and the little pop of leopard. How charming is this? Well, I hate to say goodbye to August but I know we're all looking forward to a much needed Labor Day weekend! So wishing you all a fabulous jet-set adventure wherever you go! Or if you're like me, I'll be relaxing at home with the family, a glass of wine or two, some BBQ and catching up on summer reading. Truman Capote has been on list and I'm absolutely infatuated with Breakfast at Tiffany's...So hope you enjoy yourselves and see you in September! xoxo Kelly

  

Make-Up and Hair Styling by Maggie Runner

Sneak Peek into the Modern Black Book...

Happy Friday! Here's delicious little glimpse into The Modern Black Book, a simply gorgeous album (and my most popular item!) from my studio. Sleek and luxurious, this fine art book showcases your boudoir images at their very best. Offering full centerfold-style pages, it's guaranteed to impress...and stop a few hearts! Now that we're gearing for fall (I know, I know, did you see the new fashion collections out already?) it's only a hop, skip and jump away from the holidays. Remember, albums take a little extra time to beautifully craft so it's best to book at least two months in advance. So take a sneak peek and start thinking about some possible gifting ideas- either for yourself or your dearly beloved. Also great for birthdays, anniversaries or a personalized groom's gift! Hopefully you'll get inspired to create your own stunning visual memoir. And who doesn't deserve their gorgeousness captured in timeless photos? You certainly do! :) xoxo Kelly

Boudoir Posing Inspiration

Happy August! Just wanted to share this charming little video of Zoe Saldana posing from the GQ archives. Watch this clip to get some posing ideas for your boudoir session. Miss Saldana brings so much personality during her shoot, sparks are flying on set! Just shows it's ok to have a little fun during your session! She also does some serious back arching in her cropped mesh sweater and boy shorts- epitomizing the modern GQ sexy look.
Contact me to start a conversation about what looks you would like for your boudoir session. My stylists and I customize each photo shoot with you so your results are nothing short of amazing. Our studio sessions are designed just like magazine production shoots with professional styling and multiple outfit/set changes. Email me for more info and to start planning your gorgeous boudoir session! Also check out my Pinterest boards for more styling ideas. Hope to see you soon! xoxo Kelly


Zoe Saldana - GQ Magazine from Two Penguins on Vimeo.

Happy 4th of July + Summer Specials!

Here's some ideas to help you celebrate the American spirit this summer! With the sailor theme, it's sporty, sexy, and what girl doesn't look cute in an uniform? Let the red, white and blues inspire you to create your own classic pin-ups this summer! Contact me to get a *Special Summer* photo rate for a limited time! xoxo Kelly

Happy 4th of July! by bayareapinups featuring christian louboutin heels

              

Mix and match! This cute polka-dot halter swimsuit is worn with sailor shorts, both items from Pin-Up Girl Clothing. How is that for functional and fabulous? Red heels, sailor hat and lifesaver available at my studio :-)

Summer days are here!

The halter swimsuit for summer pin-ups is a staple must-have! So versatile, flattering and works with a variety of poses and props. This red halter is available at my studio. The green one below is from www.pinupgirlclothing.com

For more pin-up outfit ideas, visit my Facebook Page album Retro Pin-Ups. Thanks for stopping by! Contact me to book your fabulous summer pin-ups! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-up by Ann Ho

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

Who's better than a red-hot redhead to inspire your St. Paddy's Day? Christina Hendricks, watch out! This lovely gal is wearing a pastel pink Frederick's corset, bringing out her gorgeous strawberry-blonde locks, while the satin and black lace adds a bit of vintage flair! With a pose that accentuates her sexy curves, this image is one of my favorites and gives a dramatic, timeless appeal. See more images from the session on my Facebook Page. Thanks for stopping by and hope everyone has a super inspired St. Pattie's Day! More Spring/Summer inspirations coming soon! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-up by Maggie Runner

Holiday Sessions, *New Album* Designs, and early Valentine's!

Wow, this month really flew by! Wanted to share a *sneak peak* at some new album designs and let folks know that I'm almost booked through November/December for holiday sessions but it's never too early to start planning for your sweetheart for Valentine's! I know it seems early but time just flys, doesn't it? So make a date to get pampered by our stylists, pick out a few pieces of sexy things to wear and leave the rest up to us! Simple, isn't it? We'll make it worth your time. Give a gift your loved one will never forget! Contact me to book a session in January (by Nov 30th or before spots fill up) and I'll offer you a special bonus Print or Photo Credit ($100 Value!) Here's some sweet Pin-Up inspiration and sample Album Design, see more on my Facebook Page. Thanks for stopping by and hope to see you soon! Happy Halloween weekend! xoxo Kelly (408)329-2511

Album design by: http://indigoalbumdesign.com/

Posted via email from Pin Up's by Kelly

New Vintage Headboard and Bedroom Set!

Inspired by the tufted vintage headboard from Mad Men (just can't wait for the new season to begin!) I created this bedroom set perfect for both modern boudoir photos as well as retro pin-ups! This bedroom set evokes the look of a lavish hotel mixed with a little 1960's inspiration (Think Marilyn Monroe bedroom pics). Paired with your favorite lingerie (whether modern or vintage-inspired) the possibilities for beautiful, sexy photos are endless! Above are a few examples from a recent boudoir photo session. I just love how the colors really pop against the creamy satin texture and how any lingerie can work against this lush setting. For packages and info on booking a session, please email: bayareapinups@gmail.com (408)329-2511 Reserve your holiday session soon to create a gorgeous gift to remember! New album design, books and calendars available! Thanks for stopping by! xoxo Kelly 

Hair & Make-Up by Emily Nguyen

Posted via email from Pin Up's by Kelly

A Modern Presentation with a Vintage Touch

I'm excited to introduce a new collection of flush-mounted albums this fall from Indigo Album Design! What I love about these albums is that you can customize each with your choice of luxurious leathers or elegant Japanese bookcloths, and mix it up with a selection of beautiful interior end papers. All images are mounted flush to the pages and include a custom design of your pin-up or boudoir photographs with full panoramic spreads. It's a modern presentation with a vintage touch. What better way to create a lasting keepsake of your gorgeous pin-up or boudoir photos? Did I mention that these albums were just featured as an Editor's pick from Brides magazine this past August? Someone once said "a picture is worth a thousand words"...well this album will speak directly to your heart and make a truly wonderful gift to be treasured for years to come.

Beautiful Photos deserve beautiful albums! Join my Facebook Page for more galleries and updates! Stay tuned for album design samples coming soon! xoxo Kelly For Packages and info, please contact: bayareapinups@gmail.com or (408) 329-2511

Posted via email from Pin Up's by Kelly

New! Handcrafted Accordion Book

Having a love for simple and handmade things, there's just something special to me about a handmade book. I took a bookbinding class in college and can appreciate the process and skill it takes to carefully measure, wrap, and choose the perfect binding and paper to create an elegant and beautiful book. So when I found these accordion books created by professional artisan bookbinders, I knew it would make a wonderful one-of-a kind presentation for your pin-up or boudoir photos! These books even got the attention of Oprah and were featured on her "O List!" So you know these books are special!

Each book comes wrapped in red, black, plum or champagne bookcloth, tied with a silk ribbon and classic button enclosure. I'm delighted to now offer this special accordion collection when you book a Half-Day Pampered Pin-Up Package, or simply add this as an upgrade to the basic Petite Pin-Up Package.

Beautiful Photos deserve beautiful albums- So make your loved one feel special with this gorgeous keepsake or cherish this gift for yourself!

More unique albums are coming this holiday season so stay tuned for more! Thanks for stopping by! xoxo Kelly Contact me: bayareapinups@gmail.com or (408)329-2511 for package info or schedule a session

*Each book is created solely by hand in the U.S.A: the fabrics and papers are cut, glued and wrapped by skilled artisan bookbinders. Archival & environmentally sound, the paper used in this albums contains 30% post consumer content, are acid-free and meant to last a lifetime.Posted via email from Pin Up's by Kelly

Happy Valentine's Day, Sweethearts!

Wishing you all a fabulous day with your loved ones! Didn't get a chance to have your V-Day Pin-Ups? You can still book a session until mid-March before I go on maternity leave! I will be back for sessions during mid-July/August. Stay tuned for more inspirational pin-ups! Join my Facebook Page to see more photo galleries, updates and always feel free to contact me for a personal consultation & package info. Have an inspired day! xoxo Kelly Email: bayareapinups@gmail.com (408)329-2511

Posted via email from Pin Up's by Kelly

Choosing the Right Boudoir or Pin-Up Photographer

Recently, I noticed that when people are looking for a photographer, they tend to evaluate services solely based on two criteria: Price and quantity of images. While these should be considered, boudoir and pin-up photography is a very personal experience and I believe there are a variety of factors necessary to ensure you have a successful session. I decided to put together some information to help you when it comes to choosing the right boudoir or pin-up photographer for you.

1) Initial consultation. Talk by phone/in person to discuss your session and get a sense of the photographer's style and approach. How much experience does she/he have in this field, what different styles/backdrops are offered, is this a professional or home based studio?

2) Quality vs quantity. This is a biggie. When you browse through a magazine, how many photos do you see of a fashion or celebrity shoot? Usually not more than 4-6 images in a spread. All the photos have been retouched and the model has had hours of hair and make-up styling with a full day of shooting with the photographer. The images are amazing of Natalie Portman and Katy Perry, right? What you won't see are a bunch of unedited*, unretouched images or a repetition of the same outfit/pose. When looking for a photographer, do you really want a large quantity of unedited images or a selection of high-quality photos that you really love and are magazine worthy? Which would you rather give to your loved one? My advice is to not look at numbers you "get" but rather the quality of work and style. To evaluate the photographer whose style is right for you, ask to see a gallery from a sample photo session. Here is an example of Before/After Images where you can see how the client began the photo session make-up free, to the styling process, and some final retouched photos. Difference between edited & retouched photos? *Editing is the correct term for the selection of best images (from all the shots taken in a session) and may or may not include some color adjustments and cropping. Retouching is a labor-intensive process where each individual image is worked on to achieve flawless looking skin, slimming effects, and so on...Here is an example of celebrity retouched photos to get the idea.

3) The creative process. Having worked in the professional industry for years in NY, I've been on many shoots and it all comes down to the basics.

- Styling. Every session starts with thorough styling with a skilled make-up/hair stylist. They truly can perform miracle transformations and if you want hair like Gisele, smokey eyes like Kim K., or a flawless complexion and vampy lips like Dita Von Teese, chances are, you need the pros to work their magic on you! Any trained stylist with industry experience will tell you it doesn't always come fast. Average styling time with my stylists are 1.5 hours and includes application of false lashes, sometimes extra layers! Please refer to Before/After examples. If someone offers 20min "quick" styling from start to finish, I would be skeptical of the end result.

- Environment. A pin-up/boudoir photo shoot is an intimate experience. You need to feel comfortable in the environment where the shoot will take place. Shooting in a dedicated studio with a private changing area will put you in a different emotional state of preparation than shooting at someone's home.

-Timing. Fashion shoots are notorious for taking 12 hour days. Though time should be used more efficiently for busy everyday gals, it's not realistic to think of a pin-up or boudoir shoot as a quick, "snap and go" experience. An average session with multiple outfits/backdrop changes takes around 2 hours minimum. Since most of my clients have never posed in their lives, helping them take the time to feel comfortable and know what to expect is very important in this process.

I hope this gives some helpful ideas to factor in when deciding on a boudoir or pin-up photographer. Whether it's a gift for yourself or a loved one, it's important to feel comfortable about the process and the photographer you're working with. Have any questions or comments, experiences to share? I would love to hear from you. Email me: bayareapinups@gmail.com (408)329-2511 Thanks for stopping by!

Xoxo
Kelly

Posted via email from Pin Up's by Kelly

Maternity Pin-Ups and Portraiture!

Who says you can't be gorgeous and sexy when you're expecting? Demi first started the trend, and more recently Britney and Christina both bared their bellies glamorously for the magazines. For inspiring celebrity maternity photos, click here to view some supermodel moms who Dared-to-Bare! As I get closer to my own due date in May (and maybe I'm biased) but I can't think of a better way to immortalize the beautiful female form during pregnancy than by photography. See photos below of a lovely client (due in March!) who recently did a pin-up style maternity session at my studio. Whether you're a mom-to-be or already a supermom, the stylists and I can give you the Hollywood treatment and transform you into a stunning pin-up! For maternity photos and pin-up sessions, please feel free to contact me and I'll be happy to help plan and customize your session. Currently booking sessions until March and summer sessions after July. Come celebrate your fabulous self, you deserve it! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Styling by Amanda Garcia

Inspired by Christina Aguilera's maternity pin-ups, I just love the heels with her outfit!

Black and white is beautiful and has a timeless quality I love...

Posted via email from Pin Up's by Kelly

Pin-Up for the Day!

Here's a sneak peak into an album I designed for a very dear client of mine, Dara, who so graciously allowed me to share her photos. Wearing a gorgeous customized corset she had brought, we did a variety of poses that just turned out stunning. She was so much fun to work with and just shows that a hot, sultry pin-up can be at any age, even 44! Wowza! So for all you gals out there who think you're pushing a certain age, and being a pin-up may not be for you, we can certainly prove you otherwise! We wholeheartedly believe that every woman deserves to celebrate herself and be glamourous at any age! For a free consultation to discuss the vision of your shoot, please contact me and I'll be happy to help you plan your next pin-ups! (wink!) xoxo Kelly

Posted via email from Pin Up's by Kelly

Hair & Make-up Styling by Tonie

Island Inspiration!

I will be traveling & bringing my Pin-Up style to the gorgeous islands of the Philippines for several months this year, so next available sessions at my SF Bay Area studio will be in July. So ladies, you have time to get tanned & fit for your fabulous summer session! Please feel free to contact me by early June to book your sizzling summer pin-ups in July & August! For East Coast ladies, I will be scheduling sessions in NYC in the fall. Please email me if interested about upcoming Manhattan sessions in Sept/Oct 2010. Thanks and looking forward to bringing back some island inspiration for your Pin-Ups! xoxo Kelly