I heart.... Cheeky Pinup Photography & Our Vets

I love vintage pinups- especially cheesecakes from WWII... and try to keep up with some of the modern pinups and burlesque gals throughout the nation... they are just the perfect mix of glamour and cheeky humor - thus I was so very thrilled that one of my dear friends informed me that she has decided to do a calender for her fiance... what fun! She's taken elements of their courtship and asked me to help style a 12-month ode to their relationship... which she'll be giving him after their wedding...

I really love this idea- imagine a glamorous photoshoot based around YOU... with all of the over-the-top sex kitten hair and makeup that would be too risque for the wedding... imagine a reason to buy all those adorable pieces of lingerie that are just not "bridal" material... and imagine the suprise on that groom's face when he sees that though he is eternally bound to the woman of his dreams- there are 12 more months of "fantasy gals" to safely enjoy.... just a thought....


and if you should have enough moxie to do such a thing... keep in mind the following:
1. Research the Photographers in your area that do the vintage pinup style. There are many shady operations that "claim" to be pinup photographers. It is my suggestion that you view their website.... see their portfolio... and get referrals. I have had several friends disappointed with ameature shots.... remember that the price tag is NOT the best way to choose a photographer but that too good of a deal is a good indicator that the quality will be lacking. The photos above are from Vivas Pinups.
2. Bring a friend! Or a sister... someone that is there to know your comfort zone and willing to tell you the TRUTH about what is flattering and what is not. It is important to know the fine line between classy and distasteful... Most photographers are great about this... but it is always good to have another opinion there- plus it will help to calm your nerves.
3. Bring lots of ideas... research research research... poses and facial expressions... if you want this to be more editorial in nature know that it is up to YOU to make it work- so do your homework!
4. Hire a professional makeup and hair artist! Part of what makes these so very glamorous is the fact that the makeup and hair is very period specific and over-the-top... should you try to DIY, do several trial runs and remember that you will be paying your photographer for their studio time as well... so it is very important to keep this in mind as you transition from one look to the next.
5. NEVER and I will repeat NEVER sign the disclaimer that gives the ownership of these photos to the photographer. I do not care that they are really reputable and that this is their standard operating procedure. See the pictures above? They are LOVELY- I think so too... and so do you... and anyone else that is reading this... or anyone that saw the numerous site links on google....I'm sure they signed that disclosure- get the picture? (most of these women are actually pinup models and I am sure that they are more than comfortable with the sharing of the pictures... however, my point is that YOU would be doing this for HIM and not so much for HIS BUDDIES with access to the internet...)


If you need any references for more information on pinup photographers, makeup, stylists, clothing, etc.... feel free to contact me and I'd be happy to help.

Alright kiddies... that about wraps it up for the night...

Jacksonville is a Navy town... and thus today was so very full of festivities. I hope that each of you took time today to honor the vets...