My Journey to Phoenix…
My Dream Come True, at The Portrait Masters 2023.
Hey There Everyone!
I'm ecstatic to announce that I'll be attending The Portrait Masters 2023 in Phoenix this September! This isn't just an event; it's a realization of a dream I've cherished since starting my photography journey.
(keep reading to learn more!)
Dancing in the Light: My Luminous Alliance with StellaPro Lighting
Stepping into the spotlight of my photographic journey, there’s an electric wave of excitement I wish to share with you all. I am profoundly honored to embark on this new chapter as a "Champion of Light" with StellaPro Lighting. This isn't merely an ambassadorship; it’s a harmonious blend of my deep-rooted passion for photography and the pioneering spirit StellaPro Lighting exemplifies.
For those who know me, my affinity for constant lighting is no secret. It grants me the freedom to see the final look in real-time, lending a cinematic quality to my work, a fluidity that's hard to replicate. It’s this tangible, visible dance of shadows and highlights that StellaPro’s CLX brings to life in every frame. But there’s a magic twist in this tale—the Reflex lights. These wondrous creations not only function as top-tier constant lights but also brilliantly double up as strobes. The flexibility to seamlessly switch between the two has immensely broadened my creative horizons, enabling me to capture a diverse range of moods and moments.
Incorporating the Reflex lights with the Godox lights I already treasure has been a game-changer. Their compatibility is a testament to StellaPro's commitment to versatility and adaptability. This synergy allows me to mix and match, creating an orchestration of light that’s both nuanced and powerful.
Beyond the luminous brilliance of the CLX and the duality of the Reflex, it’s the modifiers that add that touch of genius. From the pinpoint precision of Fresnels, the dramatic spotlighting capabilities, to the dreamlike aura cast by the diffusion modifier—each addition allows me to paint with light in the most enchanting ways.
As a "Champion of Light", my journey with StellaPro Lighting is not just about championing products; it's about championing a shared vision, an ethos of innovation, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. The path ahead glitters with promise, and I am thrilled to traverse it, hand in hand with StellaPro, narrating tales illuminated by the magic of light.
All right, folks, I am having a legit “fangirl” moment here!
One of the amazing reps from Nikon has decided to help me take my work to the next level!
After reaching out to Nikon, a brand that has always been a beacon of excellence and innovation in the realm of photography, I got a response from one their reps who has graciously agreed to support me at this event by lending me his own personal Nikon Z8 camera for two weeks! But that's not all. Complementing the Z8's prowess, I'll be wielding a trio of his exceptional Z lenses - the incredibly sharp Z 24-70mm f/2.8, the Z 85mm f/1.2 and f/1.8, the 50 f/1.8, and the Z 70-200mm f/2.8, my beloved "beauty maker."
Why do I call it that? Because this telephoto masterpiece does wonders for compression, making the background melt away while bringing the subject front and center, creating that intimate connection with the viewer. But there's more! This lens has this uncanny ability to flatter the skin, smoothing out imperfections and imparting a kind of soft glow that makes anyone in its focus look effortlessly radiant. It’s no wonder then, that this lens is my trusty sidekick in the studio, being my go-to 99% of the time. It’s not just a lens, it’s a magician in glass form.
Honestly, it’s like he handed me the keys to his supercar and said, “Go have fun!”
I am SO EXCITED!
This isn’t just about gear, though. It’s about crafting images, and capturing those "oh wow" moments, and doing it all with some of the best tools out there. I've always had this bond with my gear, kinda like how some people feel about their favorite guitar or their trusty old boots. And now, with Nikon’s state-of-the-art gear? It’s about to get even deeper. I might just fall in love with mirrorless!
Dazzling Backdrops: A Symphony of Themes and Hues
Hold your breath, my friends, because it gets even better. We're bringing the captivating Baby Dream Backdrops on board, weaving a tapestry of colors and themes that will mesmerize the crowd. (Click on the backdrop names to order!) Here’s more information about our themes for the event:
Day One Theme: Dolly Dream Accessory Wall + Dolly Dream Accessory Closet Room
Stepping into Day One is akin to reliving our Barbie-fueled dreams. The "Dolly Dream Accessory Closet" room is a sea of pink fabulousness, boasting an array of trendy jackets, voguish coats, runway-ready shoes, and purses that can make any heart skip a beat. And, who could resist those oh-so-stylish sunglasses? It's Barbie's world, and we're all just living in it! Heck, this closet is so grand, it might even make Barbie herself a tad jealous!
Day Two Theme: Whimsical Unicorn + Pink Whimsical Clouds Room:
Day Two is a flight into a world where magic is real. The "Whimsical Unicorn" backdrop paints an ethereal picture: a regal white unicorn, its mane and tail of cotton candy pink flowing gracefully, crowned with a twinkling pink horn. All of this amidst a sea of cotton candy clouds set against a dreamlike heaven, where every detail is intricately captured, merging the fantastical with the tangible. And to elevate this enchanting setting further, we're incorporating the "Studio Goddess Wings" by the brilliant Kayla Douglas Artistry, custom-crafted to harmonize perfectly with the whimsical unicorn dreamscape. It's poetry in visual form.
Day Three Theme: A Princess for Christmas Window + Fireplace Room
For Day Three, step into a grand Victorian room glowing with festive grandeur. Walls are accented with gold inlays and centering the room is a fireplace with candles, flanked by two pink Christmas trees. Beneath them, white presents tied with pink satin bows await. Draping the fireplace is a garland filled with pink ornaments, perfectly paired with "Archangel Wings" by Kayla Douglas Artistry. Opposite, a window reveals a snowy landscape, framed with another pink-ornamented garland, soft pink curtains, and fresh flowers. This isn't merely a backdrop; it's a breathtaking Christmas spectacle like no other.
A colossal shoutout to Baby Dream Backdrops and Kayla Douglas Artistry for breathing life into these sceneries. Here's to creating art, memories, and magic, one shot at a time!
This week, everything's pink - our sets, the clothes, you name it. Why? It's all for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
This isn't just about looking good in pink; it's about standing with all the brave women dealing with this tough disease. When you see all this pink around, think of it as a big shoutout for the importance of catching this thing early and supporting those in the fight. Let's not just wear pink but do our bit, whether it's talking about it, getting checked, or donating. Together, in our simple ways, we can make a big difference. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
wings by @kayladouglasartistry
Embarking on a Mystical Partnership with KDA
As I step into a new dawn, there’s a shimmering announcement I can’t wait to share. Beyond our magical collaboration, I'm elated to reveal that I have been honored as an official partner for Kayla Douglas Artistry at this event. This is a dream turned reality, an affirmation of our shared visions and passions. Kayla, a virtuoso with a heart of gold, doesn't merely craft wings; she weaves dreams, love, and undying commitment into tangible masterpieces. Every nuanced detail in her work—each feather, each color gradient—speaks volumes of her dedication. Through her creations, we find stories, dreams whispered to stars, tales of strength, raw emotion, and transcendent beauty. It feels as if a fragment of the cosmos decided to grace our world.
In tandem with this luminous journey, Kayla and I, bonded by art and dream, are crafting not one, but TWO ethereal sets of handcrafted wings! Think of the celestial allure they will bring to our sessions, the mystical tales they'll tell. But this isn’t just about collaboration; as an ambassador, it's a pledge to carry forward the legacy of Kayla Douglas Artistry, to share its magic far and wide. It's a promise to be the bridge between her world of wonders and all of you lovely souls, inviting you to partake in this enchantment. Feel the magic, the anticipation, the boundless possibilities. The horizon is radiant, and our shared journey has only just begun.
Introducing our Muse: Holly Lopez – An Ode To Classic Beauty
Model: @jesticjade
Photography is as much about capturing the soul as it is about capturing the form. In this journey, I've had the honor of photographing an array of individuals, each bringing their own charm to the lens. But every once in a while, you encounter someone who truly stands out, who embodies the very essence of what you wish to portray. Holly Lopez is that rare gem.
Holly first came into my world as a client for a mini session. From the moment she stepped in front of my camera, I was captivated. It felt as though she had been modeling for lifetimes. Her body, curvaceous and statuesque, became a canvas that celebrated the real, authentic beauty of womanhood. In an industry often inundated with singular definitions of beauty, Holly's physique is a refreshing testament to the diverse forms of feminine allure.
But it wasn't just her figure that had me enchanted; it was her innate ability to pose, to convey emotion with a mere glance or tilt of her head. The subtlety of her facial expressions, each one telling a story, showcased a depth and understanding of the art form that's rare to find. Her every move felt effortless, yet intentional.
As someone deeply passionate about celebrating and empowering women through my work, photographing someone like Holly is a dream. There's an undeniable power in showcasing women who exude confidence in their unique bodies, breaking the molds of conventional beauty standards. Holly's presence in front of the lens is a celebration of every woman who's ever felt unseen, reminding us all of the diverse and multifaceted beauty that exists.
Beyond her natural prowess as a model, Holly and I connected on a personal level, forming a bond that goes beyond the confines of a studio. It's this personal connection, combined with her exceptional ability to emote and pose, that made her the unequivocal choice for this event. She's not just a model; she's a muse in every sense of the word.
Dressed in Elegance with Sew Trendy: A Vision for Holly
Photo By: @ohmygoddardphotography | Models: @summeranactions, @chelseykade, @realestatewithkatiee, @sidneylynnofficial, @kirstenplonka, @wxyzeriri | Dresses by: @sewtrendyaccessories
Every so often, a collaboration comes along that sets your soul alight. This is precisely how I feel about teaming up with Sew Trendy. Whenever you've gazed upon those mesmerizing, ethereal dresses in my photographs that seem to dance like flames or cascade like waterfalls, you're likely admiring the handiwork of Sew Trendy.
Selecting the right attire for portrait photography goes beyond aesthetics; it's about embodying a persona, setting the atmosphere, and enhancing the narrative. Sew Trendy has mastered this delicate balance. Their collection isn't just a range of dresses; it's a gallery of stories waiting to be told. Each piece is thoughtfully designed with the intricacies of photography in mind – the fluidity of the fabric, its interaction with light, and the transformative aura it grants its wearer.
Speaking of transformation, I am practically vibrating with excitement at the thought of Holly draped in these gowns. I've witnessed the metamorphosis that occurs when subjects don one of Sew Trendy's creations. They don't just wear a dress; they embody an emotion, a moment, a story. With Holly's unique charm and the ethereal beauty of these dresses, I can already envision the magic we're about to create.
Holly in a Sew Trendy dress is not just a portrait waiting to happen; it's a tale of elegance, grace, and timeless beauty. I cannot emphasize enough my gratitude to Sew Trendy for consistently delivering these visual marvels. Their unparalleled commitment to quality and their profound understanding of a photographer's heart make them an irreplaceable ally in my journey. Together, we're set to craft stories that resonate, captivate, and inspire, with Holly being one of the most anticipated chapters.
An Unforgettable Encounter with Sue Bryce at WPPI…
There's a memory that I hold close to my heart, like a cherished photograph, capturing a moment of pure magic. It was during my time teaching at the WPPI convention in Vegas. With the lights shining bright and the hum of a thousand voices around, I had my two radiant red-haired daughters by my side. In the midst of that bustling crowd, it felt like time stood still when the iconic Sue Bryce herself stopped dead in her tracks, her eyes fixated on my daughters and I, exclaiming, "Oh my god, look at those beautiful redheads!"
My heart raced, and the world blurred - Sue Bryce, THE Sue Bryce, had noticed me. This was the woman who had been a beacon of inspiration with her empowering talks on Creative Live, her message of body positivity, and her absolutely mesmerizing accent. Her work has always been a source of aspiration for me, and I remember being utterly captivated by her grace and eloquence. To me, she wasn't just a photographer; she was the embodiment of art, passion, and empowerment.
Determined to express my admiration, I braved the line of countless admirers, not to demand her attention or occupy her time but to simply ask for a brief embrace - a moment of connection with someone who had inspired me so profoundly. As I approached, it wasn't about being another photographer trying to capture a piece of her brilliance; it was about one artist sincerely thanking another. The words tumbled out: my admiration, her impact on my journey, and how her spirit seemed to be one of the most beautiful I'd ever witnessed.
Today, reflecting on that brief exchange, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. To be acknowledged by Sue Bryce, the queen of boudoir photography and the mastermind behind The Portrait Masters conference, was an affirmation of the paths we choose and the passions we pursue. She remains a testament to the beauty of not just creating art, but living it, and I treasure our fleeting yet profound encounter. Sue Bryce is royalty in my eyes, and that day in Vegas, she made me feel like I was dancing among the stars.
Meet Sue….
If you’ve ever wondered why I’m so passionate about boudoir photography, there's one name you should know: Sue Bryce. For me, she’s not just another photographer; she’s the North Star. With an astounding 30 years under her belt, this New Zealand gem has not only taken Phoenix by storm but the entire photography realm.
What truly sets Sue apart? Her fresh take on glamour shots. Before her, many of us were accustomed to traditional styles, but she brought this raw, authentic touch that redefined the game. She once spoke about the photography world's transition from age-old techniques to the digital era with Photoshop, reflecting a mix of awe, anxiety, and inspiration. It's that realness that resonates.
Her 2014 creation, The Portrait System, is another testament to her genius. It’s more than just a platform—it's a movement, linking photographers across the globe, sharing tips, tricks, and some heartfelt moments. From cool videos and workshops to an annual event that's pretty much the Oscars for portrait photographers.
And if you need any more proof of her impact? Canon USA took notice. They invited her to their prestigious Explorers of Light program in 2015. But for me, the true testament is how she's made boudoir not just a trend, but an art form that speaks volumes. Thanks to her, I found my calling.
Phoenix, Here We Come!
This isn't just another date on my calendar. It's a culmination of passion, dreams, and years of inspiration. As I finalize my preparations for this journey, I'm truly moved by the thought that each of you is with me in spirit. This trip goes beyond just photography. It's about my personal journey, the shared aspirations, and the narratives I hope to capture. I can't wait to share the photos and videos with you all – to let you in on the magic I'll experience. Phoenix, I'm committed to making this trip resonate with memories — from the depth of each photo, the detail of those wings, to the elegance of the gowns and backdrops. And on a side note, I'm quietly hoping to cross paths with Sue Bryce once more, as she’s the beacon of inspiration who never ceases to illuminate my path.
With love and a sprinkle of magic,
Casey
#PhoenixBound #PortraitMasters2023 #MasterOfLight #ShotByCasey #Nikon #DreamBig #BarbiesWorld #PrincessForChristmas #AngelGoddess #BreastCancerAwareness #NikonCreators
