Editorial Archives - Page 2 of 12 - New Jersey, Philadelphia, NYC Personal Branding, Commercial and Editorial Photographer

Sharpen Your Skills To Work For Your Career Event

March 24, 2018/0 Comments/in Branding Photography, Editorial, event photography, Headshots, personal branding photography, Portraits /by Deirdre Ryan

Francine and Dolores hosted a lunch time professional coaching event to help women focus on their branding, and building professional networks during face to face time with a group of coaches to help them get on track with their careers. It wasn’t an entire day, but more like a taste of what everyone is capable of doing.

Let me first say, this was my very first time that I actually DROVE into the city, like my own car. I’ve driven in Boston, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, I mean, I LOVE TO DRIVE. So on this day, I met up with Dolores and she and I had quite a lot to bring in, and no way was it going to fit in her car. Mine on the other hand is a Subaru Outback Wagon Limited Edition, fully loaded. So we folded down the rear seats, got the cawfee and music going and we were off. I have to say, I’m really thankful that she was there, because she knew where to go. Apparently I drive like a taxi driver 😉 LOL

From the EventBrite link: “On February 22nd, please join me and my co-collaborator Dolores DeGiacomo and a curated group of expert career coaches for the “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch” micro-coaching experience where we focus on helping you with “the how” – how to manage your professional brand for success. Along with providing you with guidance on your brand, you will learn how you get others engaged, which starts with your professional network. Success is never achieved alone.

So, here’s what you’ll experience. Over the lunchtime, you will be paired with expert career coaches that have specific expertise in branding and building professional networks. They will provide you coaching and direct real-time feedback that you can apply the same day. Not only will you work with your expert coaches, but have the opportunity to network and have an amazing lunch prepared by a chef while hearing information and insights from myself and others to further ensure you leave with even more information and knowledge.”

The below descriptions of the amazing professional coaches are from Francine:

Nikkie Pryce: “Meet Nikkie Pryce, an inspiration to us, having earned the title, “self-love influencer” through her organization, The I AM Community. Nikkie will be joining the “Sharpen Your Skills Micro-Coaching” Team as an expert coach where she will be helping not only to inspire and motivate you, but help you put action to your dreams. Being in the media industry and working directly with the public, Nikkie has experience pushing people past their own created limitations and shares this in her recently released book, “Dreamer, Take Action!”. Nikkie speaks publicly at corporate conferences, empowerment events, women’s retreats, youth girl groups, schools, and church functions.Learn more about Nikkie at www.NikkiePryce.com; IG:@IAmNikkiePryce; Twitter: @IAmNikkiePryce.”

Anne Wargo: “Please meet Anne Wargo. Anne, will be joining me along with other experienced coaches for the “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch Micro-Coaching Experience” on Feb. 22nd, to share her wealth of experience. Anne has over 20 years of experience in organization strategy and culture change. She also focuses on helping individuals be the best they can so that they and their organizations can succeed in reaching their goals. Through her coaching practice, she helps professionals in managing and integrating the demands of their work and life, finding confidence to stand up for what they need to succeed in their roles, defining and honing their personal brand and more. Learn more about Anne’s work at annewargoconsulting.com “

Jamie Lee :”Please meet Jamie Lee, born in South Korea where she shares that negotiating was considered a way of daily life. It’s no wonder she has taken that amazing skill and translated that into helping ambitious women negotiate and lead with authentic power. Jamie is another professional coach joining me on February 22nd in NYC at “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch Micro-Coaching.” Jamie is a negotiation expert and consultant with She Negotiates. As a negotiation trainer, she has led workshops for Jefferies Bank, Chase, Penguin Random House, American College of Cardiologists, Baystate Health, Essence Digital, Girls Scouts Leadership Institute and more. I am so excited that Jamie will be joining us on Feb. 22nd! Learn more about Jamie’s work at jamie@shenegotiates.com.”

Matylda Czarnecka :”Meet Matylda Czarnecka, another amazing professional coach joining the “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch: A Micro-Coaching Experience on Feb. 22nd. Matylda is a leadership coach.She supports ambitious, driven and successful trailblazers helping them gain clarity on what’s next and how to get there faster. Her coaching, informed by neuroscience and positive psychology, draws on research on how the brain can change and what it takes to create new habits and states of being. Her clients include professionals and entrepreneurs who are ready to become better leaders and create a powerful legacy. Learn more about Matylda at www.matylda.me“

Stacey Cohen : “Meet Stacey Cohen. Stacey is a sought-after speaker, author and panelist in the realm of public relations, marketing, and personal branding. She will be one of the outstanding coaches at “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch: A Micro-Coaching Experience” on Feb. 22nd in NYC. She is the founder of Co-Communications, Inc., an award-winning full-service public relations and marketing firm. Stacey brings a wealth of knowledge and has worked with businesses and individuals across a range of industries. Learn more about Stacey and her work at www.cocommunications.com“

Jasmine Briggs :”Meet Jasmine Briggs. She is one of the impressive professional coaches joining me at “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch: A Micro-Coaching Experience” on Feb. 22 in NYC. I am excited that Jasmine brings a wealth of experience in helping clients with career exploration, setting career goals, employment search techniques, and resume writing. She’s up to date on the job market and understands what it means to have an effective personal brand and how to have those top-notch interview skills ready to obtain the job or position you want. Jasmine has also guided and supported individuals in transitioning into new careers. Learn more about her work at www.jasminebriggs.com“

Shamita Alwani : “Meet Shamita Alwani, one of the outstanding and professional coaches that will be joining me on February 22 in NYC for “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch: A Micro-Coaching Experience” focused on coaching women about their professional brand and how to effectively engage their network. Shamita helps companies, teams and individuals rebuild trust and nurture change. She also teaches employees how to navigate their work environments, focus on priorities and how to pilot their own careers and development along with having a professional network that works for their success. Learn more about Shamita https://www.linkedin.com/in/shamita-alwani-kumar-9197ab4/“

Kerry Cordero :”Meet Kerry Cordero, image coach and personal stylist also joining me at “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch: A Micro-Coaching Experience on February 22nd in NYC. I am so very glad that Kerry will be sharing her expertise with everyone in the room including me (we all need a refresher or “visual brand check-up” from time to time). Kerry also owns and runs her own business, The First look Image. She knows about the importance of not only having the right “look”, but the importance of ensuing that it aligns with your brand and gives helps you achieve the right presence for success. Learn more about Kerry at www.thefirstlookimage.com“

Niya Allen-Vaytell: “Meet Niya Allen-Vaytell. She is a brand builder, resume storyteller and to many known as a “resume ninja.” She is one of the amazing professional coaches joining me on February 22 in NYC for “Sharpen Your Skills Over Lunch: A Micro-Coaching Experience” focused coaching women about their professional brand and how to effectively engage their network. We both look forward to seeing you there. Learn more about Niya and her company at www.careerglobal.co“

I love Francine’s Mission Statement:

I focus on the advancement of women. As I like to say, “I activate women for success.”

I do this through my public speaking, writing, curated and micro-networking events as well as specialized skill-building workshops. My focus is not only in personally investing in women but partnering with individuals and organizations that support advancing women to be leaders and influencers in their chosen fields.

As a black woman, I particularly understand and share the experience of many women regardless of race, ethnicity or nationality, having to work twice as hard to accomplish the same success as their male counterparts. I have witnessed and experienced the void of women in positions of leadership and authority in my own career journey.

I am a firm believer in sharing my wealth of knowledge and capital with those around me in turn helping them to excel in their chosen career paths. Thus, a portion of the funds from my events are always provided to philanthropic organizations focused on advancing women.

I believe that it takes many resources and support to move the agenda of advancing women to be influencers and leaders in their respective fields. No one achieves anything alone. I also see it as my responsibility to lend my expertise and experience; financial support; and professional network, as a career woman myself, to help drive this agenda.

Please join me at one of my micro-networking events, specialized skill-building workshops or grab a copy of my book, “The Ultimate Career Pocket Guide” to learn about the unwritten and unspoken skills that no one shares with you, but are essential for your career success.

This shows you the love that happens and how much everyone gets inspired by these events.

After the group photos, I did some super quick business portraits of Francine right before we had to leave the venue. I mean I set up the lights in 2 minutes, and started to shoot in 1 minute. These were her favorites, and to be honest, mine as well 🙂

Here are the ones I did for Dolores, they were done outside at The Cakebox here in Bordentown, NJ at a different day.

I love Dolore’s approach on LinkedIn:

:: WHO I WORK WITH

►► Entrepreneurs, organizations, and individual professionals; together we develop the behavior strategies and execution plans necessary for success.

►► Authors and Coaches whose work changes lives, but who want to get out of the ‘trading time for money trap’ and want to find a way to leverage their time and reach in more effective and profitable ways.

:: WHAT I DO

Facilitate change and motivate development using the Power Up! method; designed to focus on the thought patterns and behaviors needed to succeed and accelerates the process in all professional endeavors.

I coach individuals to create world-class, high-end, high-value Signature program that embody your expertise and creates multiple streams of income for you and your business, from entry level signature products all the way to your high ticket coaching packages.

:: HOW I DO IT

Partnering with individual professionals and organizations we work to develop leadership skills and success behaviors that align with professional and organizational goals.

Working with you to design, organize and create your Signature programs. Through a deep dive process we will work together, one on one, to map out your program: taking your big idea, and breaking it down into a step by step system, high value content program that people will want to buy.

:: YOUR NEXT STEP

To find out more and have an introductory conversation…

📅 schedule a meeting: https://calendly.com/email-7/powerup

Below is their book, The Ultimate Career Pocket Guide, I photographed them both for the back cover. To see more on this click on this link.

For this event, I shot using 2 cameras, the Canon Mark 5D III and the Canon 6D with a 70-200mm f2.8L and 16-35mm f2.8L lenses. For the lighting, I brought 4 flashes, they were the Canon 600EX RTs and the Yongous 600EX RTs. The wireless Yongnuo trigger can fire off the Canon flashes, the the Canon can fire off the others. The place looked like it had great natural light, BUT it was raining and overcast all day, so having all of those flashes were actually needed. I set them up on stands throughout the room and manually adjusted them from the trigger on my cameras.

I also brought 2 satin umbrellas and 1 Photek Softlighter. After this event was over, I had a headshot session to do for a client of Dolores. More on that later 🙂

After everything was over, Dolores and I had a nice meal at an Irish Pub on the same block, my husband was able to meet us, since he works in SoHo and then he drove all of us home.

Thanks once again for everyone’s support.

Here are other events I’ve photographed for Dolores and Francine:

Women In Business Helping Other women

Jimmy Choos and Walking Your Way To Success

Are you ready to start your branding photography to go with your career, business or for your company? Let’s chat using the red chat window on the bottom right of the screen.

Editorial Photoshoot Showing A Cervical Cancer Survivor Whose Future Is Bright

January 10, 2018/0 Comments/in Editorial, Lifestyle Photography, Photojournalism /by Deirdre Ryan

Have you ever sat in your doctor’s office and seen these magazine titles?

Diabetes Health Monitor
Pediatrics Health Monitor
Eye Care Health Monitor
Heart Care Health Monitor
Arthritis Health Monitor
Living with Cancer Health Monitor
Dermatology Health Monitor
Digestion & Diet Health Monitor

Each time I would read one, I would think, you know, I should contact someone from this publication and see if they could use a photographer like me.

Well, one day, as I was sitting at my computer working on images back in October or November, I got an email requesting an editorial photographer to go on location to photograph a woman and her family for an article for the Living With Cancer Health Monitor Magazine.

It’s funny how things happen, right?

Amanda is a cervical cancer survivor who lives in New Jersey, married and is a mother to an adorable little girl. To read her amazing story click here.

After getting the approval for the project, I contacted her to decide on the best time to do the photoshoot, where we could do it, and asked some questions so that I could get to know her before showing up. I found out that she and her family have much in common with mine, a love of books, music, movies, and comic books. Getting to know the people who I’m going to photograph helps to break the ice, create an intimacy so that they feel comfortable with me, because it’s not every day that someone shows up with camera equipment and starts taking pictures. Not once did we talk about the article or what she went through, I wanted this to be about Amanda and her family, as though cancer never entered their lives. Just a fun afternoon, hanging out, playing Uno and eating popcorn with a friend.

Originally, we were going to photograph outside and some in the kitchen, but the weather was unseasonably bitter cold and windy. So we stayed inside their home, it was really comfy and had great light coming into their living room window. Based on our conversation before, I was able to chat easily with them, also I have an 11 year old daughter who loves to read.

As usually, I packed way too much and used barely half of it. I recruited their daughter to be my photo assistant. I showed her how to unfold the light stands, how to set up the flashes in the Westcott Rapid Boxes(she helped to set up those as well). I also had a large reflector that I unfolded, she loved that one. Their adorable pug allowed me to get some doggie time, which I relish each time I go somewhere and see a dog.

I wanted to give the magazine a variety of images to possibly use. I understood that this wasn’t going to be a cover story, but from what Amanda has gone through, I wanted people to see what a loving, beautiful, fun family they are.

Instead of using the flashes, I used natural lighting, utilizing the sin coming in their from window. I defused it by closing the sheer curtains and I set up the large silver reflector their the right,(our left) just out of view to give some additional light. Whenever I moved around them, I moved the reflector to where I needed the light to hit them.

For the images of Amanda and her family eating popcorn, I had to use at least one or 2 lights, so I set them up wirelessly, one in the front off to the side and the other in the back to fill in the kitchen.

First we started off by having them read a great Harry Potter picture book(I have it on my Amazon Wishlist).
Then I suggested that they play a game, so we all decided on Uno. This is also a favorite of ours in our family, and it gets quite ruthless!
We could’ve stopped after playing Uno, but I wanted to give another scenario in a different room. So They made some popcorn and I took pictures of them having some fun with it.

I didn’t want any posed shots, my goal was to get everyone natural, relaxed and having a good time. Okay, I admit, the last shot with the popcorn, I suggested, because it’s fun to feed mom and dad popcorn when you’re a kid LOL!

Below is the final article from this month’s issue of Living With Cancer Health Monitor. If you go to a doctor’s office and see the magazine, check it out as January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. You can see which image they used and I think it was an excellent choice.

Thanks so much Amanda and your family for letting me come into your home. I had a great time chatting and getting to know you all. Thanks Health Monitor for contacting and working with me on this project.

Interested in working together on a project? Use the red button on the right hand side towards the bottom titled Get Started to contact me. Thanks!

A Day In the Life Branding Photography For Your Business

December 6, 2017/0 Comments/in Branding Photography, Editorial, Headshots, Lifestyle Photography, personal branding photography /by Deirdre Ryan

What is A Day In the Life Branding Photography For Your Business?

It’s where we tell the story of who you are and what your business is about with me documenting your day. As a former photojournalist, I’ll follow you around, taking pictures. There’s a little more to it than this, go to my previous post Are You Ready For A Change? Branding Photography For Your Business to get a better idea.

The reason I bring all this up now, is because I was at a networking meeting with a group of women and was asked if I did this sort of service. To which I said yes of course I do!

A while back, my friend Ann Laurie approached me about needing photos of her going about her day running errands for her clients. At the time she was in the business of doing concierge services called Time Well Spent, so if someone needed errands done, they contacted her, gave her a list, and Ann did them. Ann got VERY busy and it was great seeing my friends business take off. Now she’s doing a consulting business and she’s very busy with that too, this makes me happy for her continued success 😀

So we first planned the day with errands that she was going to do and the outfits that she wanted to wear that not only fit her personality, but her brand. Ann loves bright colours, beautiful patterns and is very social.

We went to The Goodwill to drop off donations.

Picked up some baked goods and balloons at a bakery shop.

Next we went to Petal Pushers in Hamilton, NJ. The owner is my neighbor and a friend. She has an amazing shoppe!

Dropped off and picked up at the Borden Dry Cleaners. I got a scratch ticket, I was not a winner…

After the dry cleaners, we went back to my house where Ann changed her clothes, then we went to the post office here in Bordentown. Beforehand, I spoke to the Postmaster to ask if we needed a permit and permission to photograph there. He was really nice and said that no permit was needed, then said thanks for asking and yes to our photoshoot.

Since this was all on a Wednesday during the summer, it was also on a day when the Bordentown Farmer’s Market was taking place. Yes, we planned this, so the last shots were taken there as Ann purchased Jersey Fresh produce.

A lot of these has Ann facing the camera, and this worked well for what she wanted. Not too long afterwards, she needed a business portrait so I went to her home which has a lot of property and we had a lot of fun as we always do. Picking out what to wear, the jewelry, petting the dog, etc. This image below is our favorite and she uses to this day. I asked her to lean in towards me and the wind kicked up at just the right time and there you have it. BAM!

We need an updated photo for her, but this one surprisingly still works for her business, the brand and it really shows off who she is. We’ll talk next time we see each other, and it might come it. As friends, we usually chat about the important things, like being happy. Love ya Ann!!!

So, if you’re interested in my Day In A Life Branding For Your Business, and want me to tell the story of what happens to help connect with your clients, contact me. This will be useful for not just small businesses, but large corporations and companies too. If you manufacture anything, let people know how it’s done visually. Work in an office? Let’s make it interesting and fun! Especially if you are recruiting new employees.

While reading this post, you may have seen a RED Button on the right that says Get Started? Click on that to contact me, thanks I can’t wait to hear from you!

A Financial Advisor, Boats and A Summer Day for An Editorial Magazine Article and Cover

November 15, 2017/0 Comments/in Editorial, Headshots /by Deirdre Ryan

I was called over the summer to photograph Douglas Bauerband in Toms River, NJ for a financial magazine called Proactive Advisor Magazine. I had never heard of them, however they had found me through Google and thought that I would be a good fit since I lived fairly close by. Going on location for an environmental editorial portrait photoshoot is what I’m known for so they gave me the specs that they needed for the article, how many images they needed and how they were planning on using them for the magazine and online. They were very detailed and organized, and I scheduled the shoot with Doug and took it from there.

We discussed what they were looking for, and I suggested some clothing options. I wasn’t sure what to expect so I went with a few ideas in mind. I knew getting some photos inside was one, but I really wanted to go outside too. And of course it was a hot, muggy day by the shore.

Once I got there for the time scheduled, there wasn’t too much outside. However across the street was a harbor with boats docked. Doug was super nice and so was his assistant. He came prepared with some options that we discussed. I setup my wireless Canon 600RT EX flashes with the Westcott Rapid Boxes and we got started quickly.

I understand that with layout and design, they needed a few options with vertical and horizontal options. I also intentionally did not crop these because I knew that the designers already had an idea of what they wanted and would need room for the fonts and other design elements.

I had him try a few things, with and without the tie, with and without smiling. But he’s the kind of person that is a naturally happy person, so I prefer the ones of him smiling.

Afterwards, Doug was completely up for going outside for more shots. The only spot of green that we found in the parking lot that had ok lighting was underneath this tree. The sun was by now right above us. I didn’t have an assistant to hold anything to diffuse the harsh light.

So then I suggested the marina across the street and he was like sure! So we hopped into my car, braved some traffic and asked the guys there if it was okay that we took some pictures there for a magazine editorial, they said sure. I set up one Canon 600EX RT flash wirelessly and we started. I decided to have the light work with me and made him pretend that the boats were his.

The last shot Doug wanted, so I said sure and that was it for the session.

Afterwards, we took a quick fun selfie and we went back to his office where I packed up the rest of my gear and headed back to my office, edited the files and sent them to my client as full sized Tifs for them to download from my Photoshelter account.

Doug’s interview was published in early October, below is the cover and right underneath is the link the the article.

Helping clients achieve three key principles for retirement success by David Wismer | Oct 11, 2017 | Advisor Interviews

Thank you Doug for totally ROCKING your photoshoot with me! We had a lot of fun together and thank you Proactive Advisor Magazine!

I really loved how these images represented Doug for his business and branding.

The Successful Failures Album Ichor of Nettle Cover Art Photoshoot

November 13, 2017/0 Comments/in Branding Photography, Editorial, Music Photography, personal branding photography, Portraits /by Deirdre Ryan

Now that their album has launched, I can post some photos from our shoot.

In case you didn’t hear, it all started one night, I was at the show to watch Men Without Hats and The Successful Failures opened for them. Quite honestly, I was amazed, I was like holy shit, these guys are awesome! Then I posted that blog link, and Mick, the lead singer of the band contacted me. They really loved the photos that I shot. We went back and forth and next thing I knew, we were trying to get a date to photograph everyone for their next upcoming album. Even saw the band perform at the Chesterfield Inn, chatted with Mick’s dad along with our friends. That was a really good night.
Then this past January of 2017, we finally did and it was a cold day. I mean it wasn’t just cold, it was REALLY bitter cold, like it was about to snow with ice mixed in. And I had a gig at the NJPAC up in Newark that night too and the weather on the NJ Turnpike was horrible. But we got it done and I made it to that gig safely.

They wanted pictures of them at their recording studio and then I wanted to get some shots at a location in Bordentown, and we did, bitter cold or not, it got done! LOL

Inside while they were playing, I used one wireless Canon 600EX RT flash with a Westcott Rapid Box on a lightstand. When I’m shooting, my goal is to not be there, or just be a part of the environment. And since I had to use the flash, I decided to be a part of the environment, we chatted, joked around, but I mainly listened and looked for cues. Being in an intimate session like this was great, getting to know the guys better in their studio surrounded by items that enable them to create was helpful for me. And for the most part, I just let them do what they do best, be themselves and play.
(Behind the Scenes Photo by David Ryan)
After they finished playing, we took some shots of them all together inside the studio. At first some were sitting down, so then I had them stand up, then I said, ok, grab an instrument.
These are what they picked up. Then I saw the couch behind Rob’s drum kit, so I had them get cozy with each other on that.
And I was like, these are okay, but I still want to take you guys to another location. So we had some time and we did. I was thinking back to what Mick was saying what he originally wanted and there was this alleyway/street in Bordentown that has these fire escapes. So we get in the cars and head over to the location. I get there first, setup my wireless Canon 600EX RT Flash and a Photek Softlighter on a stand and use my husband as a stand in and I’m ready once the guys show up.

It’s bitter cold and the temperatures dropping. These guys, I tell ya, I really love them. They take their warm coats and hats off and endure the temps and me telling them what to do for these shots. I love that they trusted me and what I wanted to do for them.

(Behind the Scenes Photo by David Ryan)

So there’s a shot before this one, we’re all trying to get Ron to smile and he’s doing his best, and then Pete does his “thing” and that’s how this shot came to be. LOL

Then we went across the street to my friend’s house because these row of colonial homes fit what I was looking for. So with her permission, we used her front porch.

Back in May they performed at Randy’s Man Cave and used one of the images I shot for the promotional poster and the single online. And of course I took pictures. The space is tiny and they had someone take video, and if you click on the link for Randy’s Man Cave, you’ll see it all there.

The album launch happened on October 20th, 2017 at The Record Collector. The Paper Jets opened for them and I am now a fan of them. The two bands compliment each other really well.

Working with the guys, collaborating, staying true to who they are, their brand, what they wanted for their new album was just awesome. I let them tell me what they wanted, listening to their ideas, and it went from there.

The Successful Failures gave me a copy of their CD, Ichor Of Nettle and I bought the LP, Into The Battle. Here’s what it looks like(I just used my iPhone SE):

At first I wasn’t sure about the cover art, and Mick was like, she’s going to KILL US. But honestly I thought well there has to be a reason behind it all. This is their vision to go with their music.

And then he showed me what happens when you pull out the insert:

Now that’s cool! These are the details you miss when you buy on iTunes or a digital download from Amazon. I recommend going to your local music store and buying the physical CD and ripping it to play on your iPod or phone. I also love seeing my name and work in physical print again 🙂

Below are two music videos to market their new album and in my next post, I’ll show images from their album launch with video from a guy who seems to be at every local band event. He’s super cool and I’m so glad that he’s there to document these.

Thanks to Mick, Pete, Ron and Rob for having me to photograph you and having a great time. I’m forever thankful to you guys! To see the album launch party at The Record Collector, CLICK HERE.

If you’re interested in having me as your photographer, please contact me and let’s get together to chat about your project. Thanks!

UPDATE:

Here’s more of my images, but this time in print for New Jersey Stage Magazine, thanks for the photo credit!

Laughs For The Left Behind, a Benefit for Our Friend, Pat -NJ Photographer

September 30, 2017/0 Comments/in event photography, personal, Photojournalism, Volunteering /by Deirdre Ryan

This is a post that needed to be written a long time ago. It’s still difficult because Pat was a friend of ours, a really good childhood friend of my husband’s, best friend of his sister’s and the best friend of my friends here in town. It’s weird, Shannon and I grew up together, then we moved back to Bordentown. My husband and Pat reconnect via Facebook and find out that Shannon’s husband, John, is Pat’s best friend! It was perfect since we all share the same sense of humor, political views, and John and my husband both work in tv.

We found out about Pat’s passing as we were literally driving down to Ocean City, NJ last summer of 2016. I mean I was reading Pat’s posts on FB I think an hour or so before? Next thing I knew, I get a message on FB that he died while my husband was driving. It was horrible and we couldn’t do anything until we reached our destination. I mean at first we thought it was a prank, but no our Ring Master was gone at the young age of 48.

Pat was happily married to his wife Terry and have two amazing boys together. Their wedding was at Madison Square Garden with Pat in full clown makeup from when he was in Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus.
To read a great tribute to Pat go here:
http://www.clownlink.com/2016/07/rip-pat-cashin/
There are links to his wedding and more.

The funeral memorial was touching, sad, and full of people cracking jokes and stories. Afterwards we all went to a great place called The Circus Drive In, which is now closed unfortunately.
I found an article about it here
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/local/people/2016/08/22/circus-clown-dies-but-legacy-lives/88813922/

A group of his friend want to do something, so a celebratory comedy show was out together to benefit the family, friends and community.
http://www.clownlink.com/2017/04/laughs-left-behind/
I quote the article:
“The Laughter Arts Foundation (headed up by Michael Rosman) is putting on the event to remember Pat and to raise money for the family and for the clown community.

The evening will be headlined by Tony Award and MacArthur fellowship winner Bill Irwin.
Other performers include:
▪ Archie Cobblepot
▪ Barry Lubin
▪ Circus Stella
▪ Dick Monday & Tiffany Riley
▪ Drew Richardson
▪ Eepybird (Maine)
▪ Greg DeSanto
▪ Hilary Chaplin
▪ Jeff Gordon
▪ Kevin Carr
▪ Mark Gindick
▪ Michael Rosman and others!

It was held at the Seashore Day Camp and School on April 8, 2017 at 7 pm. Pat was, let’s say an avid collector, of all things that had to do with the circus. So there was a silent auction of his collection, people who volunteered to get a shaving cream “pie” in the face, and more.

We brought our daughter to this fabulous event and had an amazing time! I used my Canon 5D Mark III and I let my daughter use my Olympus mirrorless camera outside. The lighting was what it was and while they had an official photographer who used his own lighting, I of course stated out of the way and captured the event from where I was sitting among friends in the front. There is video, but I think it’s still being edited, I’m not sure. But I can’t wait to see it, and I’m not the only one! LOL

Being among so much talent that night and seeing our caught taking it in was amazing. Meeting people and friends that we know via Facebook was great too. And hearing the stories, I mean there should be a book.

I quote the FB Page https://www.facebook.com/LFTLB/ for the event:
I need to thank a lot of people…I’ll divide them into the audience people, the committee people, the performer people, and the donor people,. In many cases, people were part of more than one group.
I thank the audience and especially the VIP ticket people for buying the tickets and expending the costs and effort to attend. We actually had people who flew in just to see the show. Thank you all.
I want to thank the committee people for sharing the vision and saying ‘yes’ to everything I asked. Committee people included Joey K, Phil, Brenn, Archie, Cybele, Doug, Kevin, Shane Hansen, and Greg
Here is a partial list of some people I’d like to call out for specific help. It includes committee people, performers, and other overall helpful people:
Joey Klein for doing so so so much of the detail work, including handling and posting our social media content, and donating the shaving cream Damian Blake for the logo,  Phil DePalo for the background support, the ticket website, handling the finances, and riding shotgun.  Cybele for driving VIPs Gary Schwartz for playing piano  Members of the Williams family and Cashin family for many many tasks including airport runs, helping with diet coke setup, babysitting, concessions, clean up, etc . Doug Young for pipe and drape Anthony Parziale for the video screen and the poster work  John Frangio for sound  Steve Sarafian Photos and Sharon (Stranger Cinematics) video Greg DeSanto for handling the sale of the collection pieces.  Brenn for waiting patiently till I needed her, then stepping up perfectly,  Joseph Salamone (and other Shrine Clowns) Archie and his wife for poster layout work,  Dexter for picking up 250 whoopie cushions,  Spencer Dystra and Owen Sahnow – stage hands/tech Elmo for being especially handy and helpful , Shane Hansen and Andrew Scharf , Joe Holiday for lending me a valuable prop that didn’t make it into the show
Thank you performers,  Kevin Carr , Hilary Chaplin , Greg DeSanto,  Archie Cobblepot , Mark Gindick,  Jeff Gordon,  Fritz Grobe,  Bill Irwin,  Barry Lubin, Joey Klein , Dan McCallen,  Dick Monday,  Harley Newman,  Tiffany Riley , Drew Richardson,  Ethan Rosman , Sophia Rosman , Steve Voltz Doug Young.

The numerous people who donated but didn’t attend ( including these few who donated last minute; Greg May, Center Ring Circus School, Ted Baumhauer- Flower City Vaudeville, Ted Lawrence- Slapstick Science, The Bindlestiff, Family Cirkus, and Keith Nelson and Stephanie Monseu personally, Linda DePalo (for buying 140 2 liter bottles of Diet Coke) Randy Cabral and many more.

Many many people donated to the family shortly after Pat died through the GoFundMe site https://www.gofundme.com/patrickcashin before they knew about this show. We thank them for their support.

Of course we are indebted to John and Sharon Villapiano owners of Seashore Camp and Day School http://seashorecampandschool.com/ for giving us their space to use, and for bringing in risers and hundreds of chairs, and a mop and bucket.

I’m sure that there are many others I am neglecting to list here, including people who did helpful things that I don’t even know about. May you all know that I appreciate your contributions.
Thank you again Joey , Phil, Sophia, and thank you Terry, Shane, and Jamie”

Warning! There are a LOT of images in this post. I meant a TON! However if you’re a fan of magic and the circus, then this post is perfect because people traveled far and wide to be a part of this event. This is a place for fans, family and friends to see what transpired and the amount of people and amazing talent who came together for Pat and his family. They did have it recorded, and I know that I’m not the only one who can’t wait to see it. I would also love to see the photos from the other photographer, I’m sure that they were amazing!

Now…On With The Show!

The entertainment started outside with EepyBird.com Stephen and Fritz. They are best known for a viral videos on youtube that involves Mentos and Diet Coke.

Our daughter took the above and 2 bottom photos with my Olympus. That’s my camera’s flash in the image.

EepyBird.com with one of Pat’s brothers. My husband took a cellphone video of their performance. I’ve never smelled that much Diet Coke in one place at one, and yes..it was an amazing experience!

Terry and the boys with the guys of Eepybird.com and that’s John in the background helping to clean up.

My husband took my Olympus for a bit.

Terry, myself and I think that’s one of Pat’s brothers.

Like I mentioned, I was taking pictures many as a guest and as a family friend. I didn’t want to use my flash if at all possible. But later on, the lights were dimmed and I had to. I think these are in order to the performance, but if they’re not, I apologize in advance. Enjoy, and please, share your thought in the comments section below.

Archie Cobblepot and Joey Klein

Michael Rosman

That’s Pat and Terry’s youngest son, he’s quite the showman already <3

Drew Richardson

Dick Monday & Tiffany Riley

Greg DeSanto and

Jeff Gorden

Apparently our friend John had just the right kind of noggin he was looking for! LOL

We all loved this, his two daughters sitting behind me were cracking up saying look at daddy! I know that my husband was laughing and so was Pat somewhere, laughing his ass off at John.

Hilary Chaplin

A celebratory comedy show to benefit the family, friends and community Left Behind by the unexpected July passing of Patrick Cashin.

Bill Erwin, here, Bill was talking about other clowns taking your ideas and you’re like…..

Bill Erwin is known for being Mr. Noodle and in a music video Don’t Worry, Be Happy. But his career is so much more than this and it was amazing to meet and chat with him. This act was great!

Bill and I 🙂

Our daughter was trying something and it didn’t quite work out so my husband got in his trunk of “Old Stuff”.
I love this images of the four of us, thanks Bill!

This is Barry Lubin, “Grandma”, and I remember seeing him perform as a child at Ringling Bros and Barnum and Bailey Circus.

This is our friend Harley Newman, he’s know for quite a few sideshow acts and awesome stuff!

Circus Stella with their beautiful rescue dogs!

Kevin Carr

Thank you to everyone who let me take their pictures that evening. If I made a mistake on a name or website, please let me know. If anyone is interested in an image, just contact me.

Phase One Of Clara Barton Elementary School Playground Is Complete-NJ Documentary Photographer

September 28, 2017/0 Comments/in event photography, personal, Photojournalism, Volunteering /by Deirdre Ryan

I’ve been a part of this Playground Committee for a very long time. For four years that me, as a business, I took portraits of kids and parents at the Annual Halloween Spooktacular, and donated all of the funds from those to this. Other parents and local businesses donated time and money too over the years. We’re all very happy for the children and generations to come.

And it’s not over yet. There are more Phases of this project to come that need to be planned and have money raised for to get started. Here are just some one of the events put together by CBS and our PTO to help raise money:

Get Out and Play

The Vision On FB

Here is what it looked like before and while we were planting trees:

A Playground In Need

Over this summer parents, children and other volunteers, planted along the edges of the playground with a variety of plants. I can’t tell you the names of them, but what I can tell you is that some of them prevent weeds from growing in. Perhaps my friends who were there can comment below on the exact names and who donated which kinds, etc. I just know that they look great and that they are green 😉

Then the playground equipment arrived and was assembled. I wasn’t able to get there in time for that. But my daughter and I did go to the playground before they put it up after we spent the day at the pool. I just had my cell phone on me.

But the next time I went I had my better camera and took these:

Then I got word that they were getting the surface laid in, so I headed over again. The guys were super cool and chill and didn’t mind me taking their photos.

The company that came in was The Playground Pros.

That black surface was just the first layer, then they came back to add the final layer and what you see next is the top green. The day was overcast and I had my daughter with me. They let her play a little on the playground before they moved over to that section.

Then this past week was the Official Ribbon Cutting. It was great seeing friends and the kids there. The evening was just beautiful, as it’s been very hot and humid so far. They had free Rita’s water ice, school officials were there, and it was a great event. A lot of hard work was put into it, from years ago until the present, and more must still be done.

Thank you to everyone who helped to make this entire thing become a possibility! I can’t wait to continue to with the rest!

Environmental Portraits With DES Home Renovations-NJ Environmental Portrait Photographer

July 10, 2017/0 Comments/in Branding Photography, Business Portraits, Editorial, Headshots, personal branding photography, Portraits /by Deirdre Ryan

Stephen and I connected via an online networking group on Facebook and together we collaborated with an idea that he needed very quickly that represented how he wanted his clients to see him and his business online. You see Stephen is a contractor and a man of many talents and also a father and husband. He works very hard like all businesses do and expects the very best for his clients. I was really impressed with his website and the work his company has done.

DES Home Renovations

We met on a Sunday at the building where his office is located. It has so many incredible areas to photograph inside and out because it used to be an old leather factory right here in the Trenton area of New Jersey. Now it’s being converted to gorgeous loft and studio style office spaces. Honestly I could’ve stayed and shot there all day long. But the important thing was that he looked great and the location matched how he wanted to have his company represented with their branding.

As always, I overpacked, but I wasn’t sure what to expect. I brought my Dynalites but we were moving around a lot so I decided to use my Canon RX ET 600 wireless flashes with Westcott and Photek light modifiers. Normally I shoot tethered as well, but I didn’t want to be hindered with more cables than necessary. I did have my husband/business partner assisting me, but once I got there and Stephen started to show me around, I knew that having my camera tether to my Macbook wasn’t going to work that day. I used my Canon Mark 5D III and just 2 lenses, the Canon 70-200mm f2.8 non-IS L and the Canon 24-70mm f2.8 L. Stephen put on some music with his cell phone because mine was having a hard time getting a signal and then the fun began.

Stephen was a natural in front of my camera, while I did give him direction and coaching, these favorites of mine and his, are all him. We started off in the orange and white striped hallway, then the stairwell, and after that, we wanted to get one more area. We walked into an unfinished area, he turned a corner inside of it and this amazing room appeared. Raw, still under construction like the rest, but just beautiful and perfect to represent him and what he does.

His brother came by and wanted a quick shot so I did one for him too.

We had a lot of fun and I’m very happy with what we were able to accomplish. Thanks again Stephen!

I would love to hear what you have to say, leave a comment below. Stay up to date by signing up for my newsletters, if you’re interested in what I do, please contact me for your next project. Thanks!

Hey everyone, I need to put this on my blog posts. I’ve been burned horribly, but understand it’s a legal thing I have to do to protect myself. Thanks for your support, here it is: All photographs appearing on this site are the property of Deirdre Ryan Photography. They are protected by U.S. Copyright Laws, and are not to be downloaded or reproduced in any way without the written permission of Deirdre Ryan Photography. Copyright ©2017 Deirdre Ryan All Rights Reserved.

Photoshoot of Candidate for City of Bordentown Commissioner-NJ Branding Photographer

April 17, 2017/0 Comments/in Branding Photography, Business Portraits, Editorial, Headshots, personal branding photography, Portraits /by Deirdre Ryan

I met John Brodowski a couple of times before and we hit it off. He’s born and raised in this town, we’ve both lived in other areas, and have come back.

Like many people, this past presidential election has made them feeling very doubtful. But this has turned out to be a good thing, causing many to not just do something about it, but actually go into politics to make changes for the better. John is one of the candidates of fresh faces in our town, who is up for being elected for City Commissioner.

I got a call from him one evening asking to do a photoshoot so that he could complete his site within the next day or two. So the very next day in the afternoon, after an on location session with a client, I returned back to Bordentown for his.

A lot of images for politicians tend to be very stiff or formal. I wanted to get John away from that, to see people as they would in person.

The weather looked a little threatening, and it was windy. John was waiting in front of Old City Hall, and yes it has a clock tower.(Back to the Future reference). After a few shots in, he got more comfortable. Then a car stopped and two of his friends from grade school came out to say hello. Gave us the idea to do some shots in front of the Thomas Paine statue. But before that, I wanted to get John on the sidewalk in front of some businesses. His friends came back to offer some help, and they were a HUGE help at the statute and later down by Black’s Creek. One of them held a large diffuser to block out the direct sun on John’s face(because of course that’s when the sun decided to come out). The wind kept picking it up like kite, but he did a great job and I was able to get the shots that we wanted.

Using only natural light with my Canon Mark 5D III, and two lenses, my Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8 L non-IS and Canon 16-35mm f2.8 L and the diffuser(when the sun popped out later). Having it overcast like that makes for even light, yet even more important, getting the correct exposures in the camera. So that when it came time for editing, it came together quickly.

LOL!

Thanks John for coming to me for these important images. Good luck with the election!

Hey everyone, I need to put this on my blog posts. I’ve been burned horribly, but understand it’s a legal thing I have to do to protect myself. Thanks for your support, here it is: All photographs appearing on this site are the property of Deirdre Ryan Photography. They are protected by U.S. Copyright Laws, and are not to be downloaded or reproduced in any way without the written permission of Deirdre Ryan Photography. Copyright ©2017 Deirdre Ryan All Rights Reserved.

Local DJ to Mtv to Author, Matt Pinfield Visits The ManCave- NJ Music and Events Photography

March 15, 2017/0 Comments/in event photography, Music Photography, Photojournalism /by Deirdre Ryan

If you grew up in parts of north Jersey and listened to the radio during the 80’s there was a very good chance that you’ve heard of Matt Pinfield, who was at the WRSU FM 106.3 at Rutgers. If you watched Mtv, you probably heard of Matt Pinfield who hosted “MTV’s 120 Minutes. Within a year, he hosted a variety of MTV shows including “MattRock,” “Pinfield Suite,” “Pinfield Presents,” “Rocks Off,” Say What?, MTV Live, and over 100 MTV specials.”(quoted from Wikipedia)

But while he was a DJ at WRSU he found out about the famous club in Trenton called City Gardens. And it was there that he met Randy Now and Jon Stewart. Since then, he and Randy have been friends. Matt has now been in San Francisco for the morning show KFROG, and a nightly show called Two Hours with Matt Pinfield and recently wrote a book called All These Things That I’ve Done: My Insane, Improbable Rock Life. He’s been touring around the country promoting his book and came back to NJ and made a stop at Randy’s ManCave for a Meet and Greet, and to sign copies of his books.

That’s Randy in the middle.

Photos of myself with my husband and Matt by: Jen Suwak http://www.roamingdingoproductions.com We got him to crack up and double over with laughter 🙂

A lot of fans came out to see him, the line was out the door, friends from his old neighborhood in NJ were there, co-workers from WRSU, and an “old” flame. He took extra time to speak to each and every one that was there. It didn’t matter the time frame. Everyone was special, he was kind, generous funny and truly loved being there.

I wished that I could’ve stayed longer to chat with everyone, but our daughter had a birthday party to get to.

Thank you Matt! It was an honor to meet you, thank you for writing the book, and signing it for us!

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Photoshoot of Candidate for City of Bordentown Commissioner-NJ Branding Photographer

Local DJ to Mtv to Author, Matt Pinfield Visits The ManCave- NJ Music and Events Photography

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