Capturing Your Unique Story Through Her Photography

Still looking for a wedding photographer? Look no further!

Name: Janet Wheeland

Occupation: O.C. Based Wedding and Portrait Photographer 

Company: Wheeland Photography

How did you get started?

I stepped into Photography a little backwards than most. I studied Graphic Design at Cal State Fullerton and started a job as an image editor for a high end photography studio, LaNeve Photography. The two photographers at the studio bought me my first "real" camera right before I left to study in Italy for a summer. I learned a lot working at the studio and started taking Photography classes at CSUF. The classes and the studio drove my passion into a career. I then sough out Wedding Photographers that I could second shoot for and learned all I could. I also began shooting at the OC ShootOuts, and any workshop I could find, growing my network of Photographers and meeting a lot of great people. 

How do you describe your artistic style as a photographer and has it changed? 

I love bright, vibrant images and love to capture laughter. I like to have a balanced mix of Portraiture and Photojournalism. I shoot wide and tight to express the fullness of each couple's story. I will give direction but always want the shots to be natural and full of their unique personalities and real moments.

Weddings are great to photograph because there is always something happening so you don't always have to give a lot of direction. That's when I get to be a "ninja photographer" and just capture the moments as they happen.

What training or schooling did you go through to become a photographer?

Learning the technical side of Photography was one of my biggest hurdles to get around. I learned the basics at CSUF, researched on my own, and learned from having great mentors and life experience. I am very grateful to Matthew Saville and Scott Robert Lim for all their instruction and inspiration.

Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years as a photographer? 

I am very excited to see my Photography business grow and over just even the past year I have almost tripled the amount of Weddings I have photographed. In 5 years I'd like to focus on shooting more exclusively Weddings and take on a third photographer to my team so I can be sure to give my clients the best coverage. 

Any advice for those interested in pursuing photography as a career? 

Camera equipment can be expensive so it's good to know where to invest. The thing that really makes your images look crisp and professional is having a good lens, so bite the bullet and invest in a quality lens. My 50mm 1.2/f is my rock. I named my lens "Rafael" - both a fighter and an artist. 

Second, practice, practice, practice! Take your friends and family out and do Photo shoots. Constantly be shooting and it will help you learn and find your own style. Three key ingredients that I use to capture unique and creative photos are: interesting angles, unique focal points, good lighting.

Janet Wheeland is very highly recommended and trusted as a wedding and portrait photographer.  

You can find her at the following:

Facebook

Wheelandphotography.net

Her blog 

Thank you Janet for taking time out of your busiest season of the year to do an interview with Deco Aurora. 

Apparel Analysis Client Assessment

Client Analysis 

Part 1: Client Assessment 

     My client is my sister; Leigh a 23 year old female form Southern California. Leigh’s body is an hourglass shape that can also come off as a pear shape depending on her weight. Her body measurements are 33” chest, 26” waist and a 35” hip with a cross shoulder measurement of 17”. Her head is 8” and her height is a total of 64” also known as 5’3”. In order for her body to be perfectly proportioned she must be at least 16” per proportion. From feet to knee she is 18” knee t hip 12” knee to chest 17” and chest to head 17”. So her shortest part of her body is her knee to hip area coming in 4 inches shorter than they should be. 

She's Crafty

One of the greatest things about blogging is discovering one of a kind creative designers. When I came across The Tote Trove I was immediately in love with the Kitchy totes and necklaces. They remind me of my childhood and whats best? All designs are handmade & designed by Tracy herself. Get to know this more about Tracy and what inspires her designs. 

Tell us about yourself, & what colors make you happy.

In my free time, I love crafting (of course!), writing, blogging, shopping, going to the movies, reading, and spending time with my boyfriend and family. I went to The College of New Jersey and have a BA in English (as a result of all that reading, I guess). All colors make me happy! But my favorite is blue, particularly turquoise and sky blue. Yellow and red come in second and third; I guess I'm a primary colors kind of girl.

image via (thetotetrove.blogspot.com)

What was your muse behind making your own jewelry and totes?

 

I've always been drawn to accessories that are eye-catching, colorful, and playful; as a kid, I spent a good chunk of my allowance in Claire's Boutique. I also loved to draw and paint and took lots of art lessons. But when I started high school I sort of abandoned making things, and it wasn't until years later when my boyfriend gave me one of his hand carved duck decoys to paint that I started again. I went all out, using crazy colors and rhinestones,all the while thinking, hey, why don't I do this anymore?After that I started making accessories and haven't stopped since.

image via (thetotetrove.blogspot.com)

What are your favorite materials to work with? 

For the totes, I love Jacquard acrylic fabric paint. For the jewelry, I'll use almost anything that can be strung up or glued, but lately I've been really into felt, ribbon, chunky pendants, and rhinestones.

image via (thetotetrove.blogspot.com)

What are your best selling item's?

This is a hard one, because it seems to change all the time. When I was still doing craft fairs, my tiny totes were probably the best sellers. On Etsy it's more of a mixed bag; I've sold everything from barrettes to large totes. But I'd have to say that overall I've been the most successful with my necklaces. I recently sold five from my new Fabulous Felt line to one customer, which was a nice surprise.

image via (thetotetrove.blogspot.com)

Describe your jewelry& totes in 3 words?

Fun, colorful, and kitschy

image via (thetotetrove.blogspot.com)

Any tips for new crafter's?

Just keep on making/wearing whatever you like. If running an online handmade accessories shop and blog have taught me anything, it's that there's a market out there for you :)

Visit The Tote Trove Blog

& 

Tote Trove Etsy Store

Charnae Collections: Charmingly Unique Jewelry

Though she may have blonde hair and love paddle boarding, Charnae Wright is not your typical Laguna Beach girl. She is a globe trotting artisan with a true talent. When it comes to her one of a kind handmade Jewelry she is a natural. Charnae Collection pieces are eye catching and sure to have you anxiously awaiting your own custom design. To see what makes Charnae so charmingly unique I asked her a few questions about her inspirations and what makes her designs truly her own. 

Tell us about yourself.

I love color! Most of my pieces are made to make a statement and be a big part of your outfit, rather than just an addition, or added touch at the end of dressing. I usually center my clothing around my jewelry ;)

I graduated from UCSB and loved college. If I could, I would have a ton of degrees! I love learning and am a firm believer in jumping out of your comfort zone once in awhile and embracing that which is different or foreign. I am fascinated by people, different cultures and what moves people to live the lives they lead. Everyone has a unique story and I think the jewelry you wear should too. It should reflect you as a unique person, your style and the life you choose to lead.

My inspiration for my collections are usually derived from my love of nature and my love of exploring the globe! The colors and vibrancy of Barcelona, the spiciness of a Thai cooking class, or my adventures paddle boarding on the big blue. These things, and much much more, inspire me and motivate me to create. 

 My hope is that each piece is different from the others and that everyone can find something they love for any part of their life. Life is full of wonderful different experiences and adventure...and the jewelry you wear should reflect that. 

For me, creativity is everything. I guess you could say I live and breath art and creating. I even wake up in the middle of the night with design ideas. I'm creating in my dreams ;) ha! Keeping a pen and paper by my bed has been proven very useful.

image via (charnae.com)

What colors make you happy? 

My eyes are usually attracted to yellow, coral and turquoise because I find them radiant and full of life. 

I have always designed ever since I was little- from creating barbie clothes or furniture out of whatever recycled things I could get my hands on, to creating my own custom prom dress, or using offbeat things at garage sales for home decor- I loved the art of it all! 

image via (charnae.com)

What is your muse behind making your own jewelry?

The muse in creating my own jewelry is that I wanted to create things that didn't look mass produced or worn by a million other people. I wanted something that fit me more than any other person, something that was unique to Charnae.

 For me, style is not about what others are wearing, or what brands/trends are popular, it's about loving what you put on because it so fits you as a person, fits your story and fits your inspiration. The one- of- a kind- you. That is my passion for creating jewelry and

designing. If you love it, then that's all that should matter..

image via (charnae.com)

What is your best selling design?  

I have always loved quotes. In my bedroom as a teenager, I had everyone marker their favorite quote on my door and it became the art piece of my room. I loved seeing what quote tickled everyone's fancy ;) and what moved them. So needless to say, when I made my quote/lyric necklaces they became my most popular selling item. They are great gifts because they are personal, inspiring, funny, eclectic- whatever you wish. And I love the look of the copper and brass. 

image via (charnae.com)

Describe your jewelry.

Someone once asked to describe my style and I was slightly stuck ;). I couldn't seem to think of a few words to describe my style. It is always evolving and encompassing the different life experiences and adventures that inspire me. Needless to say, I came to terms that I don't have one set style. My style depends on the collection, the piece, the outfit and also the person I am creating the jewelry for. My creations range from bold vibrant and earthy, to delicate and sophisticated. 

What are your favorite materials to work with?

My favorite items to work with are anything that mother nature created! Geodes, quartz and gemstones always fascinate me. I have gone mining a couple times and loved it! Ever since I can remember I've loved the beauty of rocks, stones and crystals. I find it so amazing that mother nature creates these breath taking items. 

 I also love turquoise, pearls, copper and anything colorful! I mostly use sterling silver and gold filled so the pieces are of lasting quality and something people can wear throughout their life.

image via (charnae.com)

For more info and to Contact Charnae Wright:

www.charnae.com

www.etsy.com/shop/charnae

http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Charnae-Collections-Handmade- Unique-Jewelry/111051871784

"The best accessory is a passion for life"- Charnae Wright

A Mans Love For Makeup

 Some of us use makeup to hide parts of ourselves we want unknown.

 But according to makeup artist Anthony Nguyen, 

"Everything has a story to tell. Makeup begins with a simple stroke, the rest is infinite." 

The story about this man's love for makeup is an inspiring one. Anthony is extremely talented and humble, something you rarely find in people these days. I was very excited when he said yes when  asked to do an interview . So lets start or story...

Tell us about yourself.  

I'm a 24 year-old makeup artist. I've been doing makeup for about 6 years now. When I was younger, I used to create short films and was lucky enough to have them screened internationally at various film festivals for young amateur filmmakers. After that, I got into photography and fell in love with the world of beauty and fashion.

I studied a few photography and film making classes in college at Fullerton and Mt. SAC College in CA. That's pretty much where makeup all started! I would do makeup for actors behinds the scenes and on my model's faces for shoots, not even realizing it came naturally...I fell in love with makeup ever since!

 I loved the ability to enhance, transform, and bring out different characters in people.

image via (Anthony Nguyen)

What Colors make you happy?

Colors that make me happy are probably colors I wouldn't wear, since I mostly wear all black or neutral colors. But bright and bold colors like teals, yellows, & fuchsias make me happy...think Disneyland colors! 

image via (google.com)

When did you realize you wanted to be a makeup artist? 

Makeup started off as just a hobby. I was never confident in my skills in the beginning, and doubted the idea of making something big out of this. After being exposed to the makeup world and the professionals in the industry, I realized it was something I had to just plunge myself into.

 After a few years experience doing makeup, a good friend told me to try and focus on one thing, and do it well. So I figured I'd take my passion for makeup artistry to a whole new level, and go full throttle. Since then, I've involved myself in doing makeup for fashion editorials, runway, celebrities, and TV. 

image via (Anthony Nguyen)

What are your favorite makeup/cosmetic products? 

Shu Uemura false-lashes! Nothing can mimic the look and feel of it. From natural to avant-garde, Shu Uemura lashes are a piece of luxury to the eyes. Lately I've also been in love with MAC's Cream Color Base for highlighting, contour, and blush. It makes skin look like pure milk. Just clean and perfect. 

Another product I love is Cover Girl's Outlast lip-stain markers. I love how it gives a youthful, yet sexy look without any visible sign of texture. Just a simple wash of color to the lips. 

image via (Anthony Nguyen)

What types of events do you do makeup for? 

I do makeup for fashion editorials, runway, TV, weddings, or any special occasions from red-carpet, to a simple night out for a special date. 

image via (Anthony Nguyen) 

What do you think will be a hot look for 2011? 

Obnoxiously bright pops of neon color! 

Light-bulbed contrast to the max.

Nothing too clean, just quick swipes of color whether it be a bright lip, or smudged liner...Only showcasing one feature for a modern touch. 

2011 is a time to appreciate all things un-natural!! haha. 

Image via ( Anthony Nguyen)

If you could makeup one lucky celebrity who would it be and why? 

Honestly, one would be Lady Gaga. She is definitely not afraid to explore, and I'm all about crossing the line and forgetting about boundaries with style. I just think she's an all around great artist, and I respect her for having a positive message. 

I would also love to do Leah Michele, because I’m obsessed with ‘Glee’! 

image via (google.com)

Any final notes you want to share?

A final note I'd like to add is to always believe in yourself! Because if you don't, no one else will. If you have talent, you have to expose yourself. 

Always be involved with what you love doing, surround yourself with people that will motivate and inspire you. 

Always move forward and grow, never backwards! 

Image via ( Anthony Nguyen)




For more info and to contact Anthony Nguyen go to
anthonyhnguyen.com