About Me - Pamela Bob, aka "bob"
Hello. So...
You've just spent a month and 1/2 of rent money on getting your headshots.
The experience was nerve wracking.
You felt awkward, insecure, and began a total spiral of negative inner talk. "I hate getting my photos taken!" you think to yourself, because every headshot you've ever had has been this way. Besides the fact that the photographer didn't give very understandable direction, or didn't even give direction at all, they're the pro, right? Clearly they know what they're doing, and you don't. UGH.
You don't sleep that night - how did this end up so badly?
And then the photos arrive in your email.
Out of hundreds, you happen to luck in to one or two shots that you could use . You may not be crazy in love with them, but they'll suffice. Besides, you're just not good in front of the camera, right? (*cue to eating carbs and drinking wine*)
I get it. This was me. And sadly, not only is this a true story, but I know it's a true story for most of you out there.
My name is Pamela Bob, and I am an Actor. I have been on Broadway, Off-Broadway, Regional and TV/Film both on the performer side as well as the creative side. Headshots were always a conundrum, a point of stress to the extreme. I am one of you.
Let me take you back to 2001. After a few years of dipping in the waters of what would be my "job-job" outside of performing, I began my 2nd career: A Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist. This was one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I found another passion outside of performing that I truly loved, had a true talent for, and became quite successful.
Hence, my business name, WHODOESYOURMAKEUP. (Cute, right?) www.WhoDoesYourMakeup.com
In 2007, another lucky thing happened to me: I became the Makeup Artist and Hairstylist for Jordan Matter, who was already the best Headshot/Portrait/Lifestyle Photographer in the business.
Over the next 14 years (14 YEARS?!?!) I was at virtually every shoot assisting, doing HMU, and learning from the best. I have seen it all. His business went from already successful to off the charts booming over those years, and I was right there by his side.
And here is what I learned: HEADSHOTS ARE EASY.
WHAT? That's right. I said it.
Ok, maybe they might not feel easy at first. But they certainly are simple.
Knowing how to talk to the client using SIMPLE yet EFFECTIVE direction proved to me over the course of the thousands of headshots I have been a part of, that to get a great headshot does not require deep psychological delving. It does not have to conjure your "essence"... whatever that means. (How would you do that, anyway?)
It is as simple as having a conversation with someone. As easy/simple as that. I learned that you don't have to just "luck" into that one shot. Even the most skeptical and fearful of clients walked out with dozens of shots that were stunning, no matter their age, skin tone, their type or their initial ease and ability in front of the camera.
Of course, a good photographer not only needs to know how to coach the client, but they need to know how to take beautiful, interesting, unique photos with perfect lighting. And have fun while doing it. Ta da.
Fast forward to today. I decided to pick up my camera. And guess what? I knew a thing or two. And another passion emerged. Now I am so excited to extend my services to you, with the same guidance and know-how with my years of experience that has taught me what a truly awesome photo should be. I care deeply about that.
Because remember, I'm one of you.
*photo by Jordan Matter
some More...
My Style...
I shoot with natural light, no matter if it's in a studio or outside. Because I am both the Makeup Artist and Photographer, I do not have a "2nd hand man" to help assist during the shoot, holding the occasional reflector/diffuser.
If you are able to bring someone to help, or an additional 2nd person to also get their shots taken during the same time, I offer a $50 discounted rate. (See rates).
If you cannot provide an extra guest, I will provide one.
I am located in a fantastic area of Astoria, Queens which provides several varied and rich backgrounds right in my backyard! And the Studio is located nearby in Long Island City. Both are easily accessible by the N/R Train, or if you're driving, there is plenty of street parking.
What about the Weather?!
Outdoor shoots can happen in most weather, with the exception of a solid rain downpour.
If you opt for a solely outdoor shoot, do not be discouraged if it's a gray day-often times that makes for the best lighting! We will be in correspondence before your shoot to make sure the weather will hold up or if we need to reschedule.
If you prefer being inside for the majority of the shoot, without worry about the weather, there are studio spaces in Long Island City, easily accessible by Subway or Car, that are fantastic for shooting, They offer varied, textured enviornments that are dynamic and striking. (In other words, no flat paper backdrop).
This requires a week or two in advance to book a space.
There is a slight additional cost per hour - and there is no need to ever go beyond 3 hours. (Check rates).
We can also always do a combo of indoor/outdoor shoots! You get to decide!