My Photo Ramblings

Telling A Powerful Story Through Photos

2012-02-10T07:36:00.001-08:00

I met Louise 9 years ago in my Montreal photography studio. Back then we were shooting with film. She hired me to do a family portrait shoot with her mother and dad, and then a glamour make-over session with her alone. It was a beautiful Spring day.

I ran into Louise at Monster Gym few years after. She told me that her dad passed away in August the same year I had shot their family portrait.

Then I never saw her again.

Louise is a competitive fitness model. I recently ran into her through another fitness client. We found each other on Facebook two years ago.

Last year, I got a shocking private message from her. She had just turned 40 and got diagnosed with a very aggressive breast cancer. She wanted to get photographed again.

After her chemotherapy we recently met in my West Island photo studio. Emma,her daughter is now 2 and a half years old.

I was ready to photograph this beautiful strong will woman and her daughter. Her hair barely had started to grow. Loosing her hair was the hardest part of this journey. Her smile was contagious. Her eyes full of light were telling me so much. I did her make-up, set the scene and our session was now a go.

Emma and Louise are born the same day and month. April 4. They are both Spring girls.

One of the shots I added a spring background which I had shot few years ago.

Enlarge the collage and enjoy each photo. It isn't the entire collection I had shot that day but it might give you the feel of few hours we we shared in my studio.

Each photo is intentionally selectively edited conveying different feelings.

Louise will go under surgery in two weeks. They say the tumour doesn't show anymore.

I will pray for her. She is such an inspiration.

Cheers to life and to all breast cancer survivors,

Hera Bell

Serenity

2012-02-06T08:36:00.000-08:00

“Take my love, take my land
Take me where I cannot stand
I don’t care, I’m still free
You can’t take the sky from me
Take me out to the black
Tell them I ain’t comin’ back
Burn the land and boil the sea
You can’t take the sky from me
There’s no place I can be
Since I found Serenity
But you can’t take the sky from me…”

Joss Whedon, Serenity: Those Left Behind

This shot sits on the wall of my client as a large canvas.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Friday Night It Was Italian Bistro Night

2012-02-04T05:56:00.000-08:00

It was Italian bistro night Chez Hera Cuccina last night.

Raspberry balsamic with olive oil dressing on the salad.

Rosemary garlic butter potatoes. I boil first my potatoes in rosemary and garlic. Then add a bit of butter and olive oil on a non stick pan, add some garlic and rosemary and cook again the potatoes for only couple of minutes, until they become softly crispy on the outside. It is delish.

I found some rosemary panne foccacia bread at Loblaws, so I have decided that I will make a paninni with seasoned roast beef and arugula, I used a bit of mayo, mustard and roasted red pepper paste to make the inside juicer.

Wine was white, and it was almost finished before we sat down for supper and a movie... Hehehe

A cellphone snap...

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Lycee Sainte Pulcherie Memories

2012-02-03T09:35:00.000-08:00

I have attended Lycee Sainte Pulcherie in Istanbul. It was a private french high school operated by french nuns.

It was a very strict all girls school. We experienced some very close friendships during this era. Then some like me moved out of the country and some stayed back in the country.

I stayed in touch with very few girlfriends all these years.

Recently Nurdan, a classmate scanned all bunch of photos from the era and shared with some of us on Facebook.

It became a chain reaction. From friends of friends we started finding others.

This brought to all of us nice memories.

I am convincing my husband Anthony to make a trip to Istanbul and see all my old girlfriends at a huge get together. He is almost very warm to the idea.

These series below are the funniest them all.

We had a costume party at our school. Think about this. We are all teenagers. We created our own costumes. There were no costume rental shops. Turkey doesn't have Halloween. We have done it all by ourselves.

Can you guess which one is me?

I am the African tribal hunter. YUP! I pained my face, created my costume with real fur etc. My hair is real. Not a wig. I curled it overnight by applying strips of fabric as curlers.

Thank you Nurdan showing us the old photos.

WOW! We were such a creative bunch of girls.

I can't wait to travel to Istanbul and give all of you a hug one by one.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Studio Portrait & Glamour Workshops In My Montreal Studio

2012-02-01T18:18:00.001-08:00

Mike from Provisia Photo Lab referred me Vince to take one of my model/studio workshops in November last year.

We booked today as our workshop date.

I always hire the best of the best. Scralett James was this time. The rest stays between us... Neah! Just kidding.

I will not share everything with you today. But the teasers are always fun to show

I shot behind Vince at 1000 ISO with available light. Vince shot at 100 ISO with one studio strobe.

I LOVE my new studio space. It has so many corners you can conducts shoots.

Here are few teasers.

These workshops are one on one with top of the line models. You learn, you shoot with them for 2 hours, you have lunch with me, then I teach you how to edit, you go home with a portrait print of yourself and a personalise CD with some of the edited shots from the shoot.

Cost... There is a cost... Life ain't free. Neither top experienced models and photographers.

But then again, many photographers who took my workshops ended winning photography awards with the images taken during my workshops. Some were kind enough to mention where the photos were taken and gave credit to the person who helped them when they were creating these particular images, and some did hid the truth and never talked about that the images were shot during a Studio Hera Bell workshop.

Well, life is like a box of colorful fruits. Some are tasty and you will go back to taste them, some are although they look great on the outside, sometimes they are plain rotten deep inside... You never know what flavour you will get in what condition when you host workshops and teach everyone your industry tricks. I love teaching. However I hold on to two very simple life's values, no hypocrisy and total honesty, and I never invite back the rotten kind into my world. It is as simple as that.

To see them larger just click on the images.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Something HOT, Out Of My Montreal Photo Studio

2012-01-31T17:44:00.000-08:00

Why not. Some like it hot, especially when it comes to boots.

These boots were made for walking. And let me tell you, they'll walk all over you.

Show less, excite more... That's the name of stylish sexy anything. Teasing works.

Thank you Sandra for your beautiful coat design, and Ishtar you are sublime in it hon.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

From Photography To Custom Made Ceramic Tiles

2012-01-31T06:07:00.000-08:00

I woke up today and got the news of a surprise sale.

I never would have thought in a million years that an image of a hand made glass detail would sell to go as a cut out on a ceramic tile runner.

I guess somewhere somebody will find an image to fit their design theme.

This portion of my photo will be printed on tile runners to go on all the bathroom walls of a new Boutique Hotel built in a high end resort. The bathrooms according to the buyer will have some kind of purple iridescent tiling and they were searching for photos to use them as runners to match the tiles.

I wish I see every product that my images goes to. I often don't.

I wonder how the bathrooms will look like?

I can see some very sexy moments spent in these dark iridescent purple bathroom walls. I'll leave things to your imagination. (wink) (wink)

I probably could never afford to spend an evening at this luxury resort wherever it is.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Jewelry Collection from Art Of Style By Hera Bell

2012-01-30T08:36:00.000-08:00

"Art Of Style" jewelry collection will soon launch a very unique turquoise necklace collection.

Some large pieces will retail as low as $40.00 Canadian.

Here is a sneak peak of few simpler pieces on me. A cell phone snap shot.

Turquoise jewelry has been been recently spotted on several Hollywood celebrities. Check the photos below.

Wait till you see some of the pieces in my collection.

They will be photographed in the upcoming few weeks. Here are some snap shots what I will carry in the collection.

Cheers,

Hera

Pink Is Pink, Modern Retro Is In

2012-01-29T06:06:00.000-08:00

Some of us girls love pink, some others hate it.

It is a very girlie affair we have with the color of pink. It can be vibrant and fun or romantically nostalgic and retro...

Today my tribute will be to the color of pink in a beauty shot.

In the coming weeks I will shoot a lot of things related to pink. Stayed tuned.

PS: This portrait was shot with Lumix G1 in my Montreal photography studio, and edited in PhotoShop.

Cheers to Pink...

Hera Bell

Telling A Love Story Through Images

2012-01-28T05:42:00.000-08:00

Everyone has a story to tell. Every one of us fell in love at least once in our life.

How do you go about and tell a "Love Story"?

I had to go and dig through my old photo archives some shots for this topic.

I will only share one shot today with you. I have so many shots like this one.

This was shot many many years ago in Paris, with a Canon AE1 (manual film camera) a 50mm manual focus Canon lens, and TrIX B&W film 400 ISO pushed to 800 ISO. Developed and printed by me. Then scanned several years later..

Voila...

If you put a time line to love this would be towards the end of our life.

This image had been critiqued, published analysed by many.

They all had found back then that I was heavily influenced by Cartier Bresson.

"Above all, I craved to seize the whole essence, in the confines of one single photograph, of some situation that was in the process of unrolling itself before my eyes. "

Henri Cartier-Bresson

Well, I was in Paris, much younger then I am today, shooting grainy B&W negatives and capturing street life. I guess they were right. I was influenced by the master.

May love shine upon you throughout your journey on Earth.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Wonderful World Of Cell Phone Apps

2012-01-27T18:02:00.000-08:00

The convenience of digital photography of shoot and look is being pushed further and further each and every day.

The days of learning about how to control your light while you shoot are way gone.

We live in an era, you shoot first, they you can edit. You don't need the know the fundamentals of photography. There is always PhotoShop to save you, or for some digital pro shooters where time is money, there are these mass production editing companies to rectify your badly light image files.

Intagrams are in vogue for most Iphone groupies. I must admit I have my favorite Intragram shooters. Too many are doing bad work and calling it art. But Roger Guetta is a rare find when it comes to Intagram experimentations. He is a local Montreal gem of a shooter. Visit his web site, you'll know what I mean. http://draman.tumblr.com/

I may sound like an old fart to many of you.

I differ otherwise...

I come from a film era. But I have embraced the digital way before digital cameras were affordable. This being said by scanning with high end scanners my negatives and creating my concept photography.

So I am not anti-digital. I am just against some ignorant photo experts...

This being said, I own a fabulous digital cell phone, you all know which one by now. Last Christmas my hubby got me a tablet.

A month ago I downloaded another app for android. Paper Camera... I only have it on my tablet. Once in a while I'll play with the camera part of my tablet. I prefer the cell phone to photograph stuff. Lighter and has the same high resolution.

I must admit, I now go back to an era where I used to sketch on paper. With a real pen and paper.

Now I have my paper camera app. Who needs real paper and real pen? In an instant I compose and it shoots the scenery I aim at as a well studied pastel sketch.

Check this out. A part of our living room shot minutes ago as is.

Talk about lazy artist... Instant gratification is much in vogue. I fell victime as well. :)

Voila, tata for tonight. I leave you my digital pen in hope to hear from you.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

My Upcoming Photography Exhibit At Centaur Theater

2012-01-26T15:06:00.000-08:00

I am happy to announce my upcoming photography exhibit "The Intimate Lace, A Celebration Of Femininity" at Montreal's Centaur Theater's Seagram Gallery.

The exhibit will be open for public after the vernissage in conjunction with the play "Intimate Apparel"

http://www.centaurtheatre.com/43_intimateapparel.html

I suggest you that you might enjoy also seeing the play which will be opening March 29th. 2012

I will be there at the opening night.

Here is my media kit for the exhibit.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Abracadabra Now, Dissapear!

2012-01-25T05:43:00.000-08:00

“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.”

Dr. Seuss

Let the children be themselves in front of you camera, you might end up with images that will show who they are, not who you want them to be.

Shot on location at a client's house for a large family portraiture session at Montreal's Plateau area.

The little sister wanted to play the magician with her brother by holding the vanilla gaufrette as a magic stick...

Priceless moments like this make me, the photographer want to stay behind the camera patiently when the kids will kids and you know that they will never pose and fake it for you.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Photographing Pregnant Bellies In My Montreal Photo Studio

2012-01-24T06:26:00.001-08:00

I have been photographing beautiful pregnant women for over 12 years now in my Montreal photography studio.

I don't show most of the time everything I shoot due to model release and privacy issues.

Once in a while I get signed permission from my clients.

The shoot happened in 2006. She was going to have a baby girl. Way before pink hues and washed out vintage photography looks became a la vogue, I was experimenting with it in my own ways.

Here is one example.

That baby girl is now six years old. And I just got a contract to photograph her upcoming birthday.

Time flies...

Cheers,

Hera

Reality Versus Dreaming In Color And Internet Web Sites

2012-01-23T06:12:00.000-08:00

In this jungle called Internet, almost every day there is a e-business web site popping up offering hosting your portfolio for possible sales, offering you competitions by charging you a fee, offering you publishing your images in books for a fee, offering you exhibit possibilities for a fee. And the list goes on and on...

Every artist wants to make a buck. Every artist wants to become famous, get published, participate and get exhibited.

But at what cost?

If a site is asking you to supply your images in high resolution in order they promise you possible sales, stop a minute, ask yourself... Why do they need the images in large format? Are they a reputable image stock bank with a solid business history behind them? etc...

Years ago when my present agent communicated with me via e-mails, after seeing my work getting featured in a very reputable Italian photo magazine, my first reaction was, "Are you for real?" "Don't ask me to supply you any portfolio off the bat in high resolution." "Let's see sales"... I supplied him with low web resolution images at first. When he found clients for a specific image I supplied the high resolution versions. Then I waited for my payment at the end of the month...

I believe it takes once to get s*****! But make it at least a small loss that you can stop further heart acke...

Yes, I got paid... And the rest is only a history now. We have an amazing working relationship. I trust him...

Last year through another photographer friend, some of us discovered a new competition site... They were offering even money without asking a competition entry fee to the first winners in each category. And this was going on weekly. WOW! It was too good to be true.

So I have participated for few weeks with only with 11 images. Once I won a first place in a category, I got $20.00. Yup.

But then my agent started warning me. What was the catch behind the company collecting high end photography in relatively high resolution format. Yes you could easily print an 8"x10" print from the minimum size of image files they were requesting.

I stopped participating after my 11 image entries.

Please do not misunderstand me. Sites such as this one might be great web sites for you if you like to keep your competitive edge on a high level by participating at their weekly photo competitions. You might sell a limited edition 5"x7" with a digital signature they are asking you supply them. You gotta be kidding me right?

Never supply your signature in digital format to anyone.

All successful businesses have to start somewhere. I believe in that. But at what cost to you, the participant?

In a large pool of such web sites you go and become a member of, which one is truly will be selling your images and paying you instead?

January 16th 2012 I got an e-mail from this competition site.... I was awarded something even though I had entered only with 11 images the entire last year.

Here is my badge of honour in color, their company name is blurred.

I wish the owners all the best of luck in their huge collection of images from around the globe from some great photographers... Some participants have uploaded each over 400 TOP quality image files last year. Almost their entire portfolio.

What the site operators will do with all these images? Surely you don't think that your limited edition 5"x7" digitally signed photo with bring you a huge whopping sale to pay your rent and food...

I have a feeling with success and polpularity, such site operators are very clever in their business plan. There is a sale going each and every day in the Internet land. Big fish buying the small promising fish to eliminate competition... It is called mergers. That's how these type of sites make money. And meanwhile you, the artist hope to get famous and make a sale.

Photography business isn't an easy one. Like any business it is a business before everything else. Art is art, but it rarely pays the bills.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Pensive Beauties

2012-01-22T10:42:00.000-08:00

I hosted a on-location photography workshop with models this past summer in West Island at an old historic mansion.

I shared with you last year some of the photos already. In the afternoon portion of the workshop our theme was the 50's glam.

Here is one which I hadn't shared yet.

新年快樂！Happy New Year!!!

Cheers,

Hera Bell

My Photo Adventures With A Plastic Snow Flake

2012-01-20T04:49:00.000-08:00

When our local camera club threw at us a photography challenge, I couldn't help but wanting to participate in it.

This is what membership received from the organisers:

Expressions Group Meeting and Assignment – Monday, January 23

We will start with a short presentation (about 15 min), Intro to Light Painting by Chris. Then the rest of the meeting we will showcase the work of members who submit the following:

We are asking that you choose one (and only one) ordinary household object and photograph it 3 very different ways; that is, show us 3 different ways to view this one object. And please make sure that it is an ordinary domestic object, that you have around the house - no exotic souvenirs from trips abroad. The fun is to use something ordinary and make us see it in very different ways.

Everyone's "series of 3" will be shown in a slide show, after which, each member who wishes to share with us how and why they shot their object, will have a chance to do so in a friendly and informal atmosphere. Please note: this is an assignment not a challenge so it will not be judged.

Please give your 3 images the same title but number them with the sequence you want them displayed, eg., Bowl1, Bowl2, Bowl3.

A few hints: you can change your angle of view, use different lenses, use color, use B&W, use different lighting but most of all use your imagination! Make us see the extra-ordinary in the ordinary.

The link is up so you can start submitting!

Cheers,
Chris and Ness

Last Christmas I was browsing at our local Dollar store. Sometimes you can find amazing stuff there. I came across a bag containing 6 plastic snowflakes. It matched the idea of my Christmas table setting, which was going to be ice, shimmer and fire this year. So I did spend a whopping one dollar.

This is how my table looked.

And then on that same table I have snap shot these 3 images for the camera club’s challenge with my cellphone. I have not cropped, edited or adjusted anything on these shots. This will be my challenge entry next Monday.

My photographic adventures never stop, even when it comes photographing a simple inexpensive plastic snowflake, I thrive making it look glamorous with low tech camera equipment…

It is all about styling and imagination... To see it larger please click on the image.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Some Cell Phone Snaps Are Just Snaps

2012-01-19T05:42:00.000-08:00

I was sitting in our living room last night watching a movie on my Samsung Galaxy Tablet via our Videotron account.

A phone call arrived around 8pm through my Samsung Galaxy SII. A new client who wanted to book a shoot next week.

I checked my calendar on my tablet and booked her the shoot.

Then as I was going back to watch my movie on the tablet, I noticed the flowers in the vase well lit from a top light in front of our living room window. I grabbed my cellphone, opened an application and snap shot this actual shot.

It is a funky snap shot which the app is adding that film strip. We used to print our negatives in the past under an enlarger by shaving off the negative tray to exhibit the negatives edges, to show off that we shoot perfect compositions, without cropping. Times has changed... Kodak has just announced bankruptcy.

I did all that while still sitting in my living room, without moving an inch. It is amazing where we are with today's technology. And God knows where we will still go one day.

I am a photography studio in Montreal. I am one woman's operation most of the time. And this is possible because of cellphones, Internet, web sites, etc etc...

I can shoot, get paid, then edit and show the client the results via e-mails. Some don't even come back to pick up the results. They prefer being wired via file transfer sites.

However nothing still beats a great looking package and some prints.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

The Trapped Beauties

2012-01-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

I dedicate my Blog post today to all women who are trapped in the world of plastic surgery to beautify themselves.

Personal satisfaction and beauty shines through our soul, not through plastic surgery.

Styling and concept was created by me, the photographer. The model did her own make-up.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Family Portraits And People You Meet

2012-01-17T07:47:00.000-08:00

Over the past Holidays I have met and photographed several very nice families in my new Montreal/ West Island photography studio.

One special family stole my heart.

Mercy (an ex-Montrealer Kenyan) called me one day. She was in town with her husband Philippe (an American Kenyan) with their very young energetic daughter Maya.

Saturday 7th they arrived to my studio. I did Mercy's make-up. And we started the shoot at Maya's rhythm. At that age when they learn walking, they seem to run, and never stop. :)

They say the world is very small. Indeed, it is. Mercy remembered my husband from Montreal General Hospital's Emergency room. Years back she was a nurse when my husband was working there as a doctor.

Philippe (from USA) and Mercy (from Montreal) met in Montreal. They got married. They now live in the States.

I LOVE my job. I meet so many beautiful people and capture the essence of who they are through my camera. For me no other job is as satisfying as mine in the world.

With their permission, here are few shots from our session.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

A Quebec Winter Moment

2012-01-15T16:16:00.000-08:00

I will be giving a photography conference at a camera club in South Shore this Monday night.

My hubby and I took a drive towards the Eastern Townships today. We scouted the town that I will be doing my conference tomorrow night.

I captured this winter moment around the town where I will be tomorrow evening.

It was minus 21 Celsius in Montreal today. Sunny but very brrrrr cold.

Photography is all about light.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Photographing Glamour Make-Overs In Montreal for Over 15 Years

2012-01-14T06:52:00.000-08:00

Many of you who know me long enough know well that I started photographing artistic glamour make-overs fifteen years ago as a female Montreal photographer in my photo studio.

My first portrait ever was of Jessica. It was shot in her Montreal downtown bedroom on St. Denis street on her bed. With a borrowed Canon Ae1 camera, Canon 50mm 2.8 lens with available light penetrating from the window. The film was black and white 400 Iso Kodak Trix. It was my first roll of film ever shot and developed and printed.

The shot above made into an Italian magazine (Fotografia Reflex) few months later it was shot. I remember printing it countless times in my wet darkroom for art collectors. They were speculating early in my photography career that I might end up somewhere someday.

Here I am 15 years later. Did I arrive where they thought I would. Who knows? My audience should tell you more where I am today as a Montreal glamour photographer who made a name beyond Montreal borders way before Internet, Facebook and e-mails.

It was hard work. But it was worth every minute of it.

I came across to a shot which prompted today's Blog post. It was shot 2009 during a hot summer August day. We are now talking about digital photography era. I have never shared this particular one with the world yet. Why not today?

Timeless... Pure and simple. It was all about capturing the beauty about my client's body form. Curves and lines with the nostalgia of yesterday's old selenium toned prints on fiber base papers.

PS: I have full signed permission. Otherwise nothing leaves my studio.

The company who is hosting my Blog right now has some problems publishing the Comments. I am soo sorry for this. When I autorize to publish the comment, the entire Blog post goes to a blank white screen.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Future For A Green Planet

2012-01-12T06:58:00.000-08:00

Do you care for our planet?

Do you care for the future of the babies to breath clean air, drink clear water?

Then take action.

Become a green activist.

GE is...

Thank you Andrea allowing me to use your baby girl's infant photo that I took 2 years ago.

It will be all over Europe for GE's Summer of 2012 ad campaign.
And thank you GE allowing me to show it to the rest of the world through my Blog.

I am proud to be a Montreal photographer carrying this winning final image in my portfolio.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Seeing Magic Through The Ordinary

2012-01-10T07:38:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday my hubby and I went out to dine at a restaurant in the West Island. It was his birthday.

I did not bring with me any camera. Just my Samsung Galaxy SII cellphone.

I was facinated by the bar chairs and the blue lights under the bar's facade. I got up and did a snap shot of it with my cellphone.

Once interpolated it can give me a very clear 16"x20" tiff print.

Amazing how technology is...

This shot is all about a splash of color,shapes and balance.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Chateau Vaudreuil A Winter Wedding by Montreal Photographer Hera Bell

2012-01-07T06:20:00.000-08:00

Having fun is only a state of mind.

From yesterday's winter wedding at Chateau Vaudreuil Hotel in the West Island.

I love my customers. I always end up with wedding clients who think outside of the box. Years to come they will treasure these few funky shots.

To see the photos larger just click on them.

Cheers to love.

Hera Bell

Wedding Photographers In Montreal

2012-01-06T06:42:00.000-08:00

We have some very talented wedding photographers in Montreal.

At the end of the day what sets us apart is our unique photographic styles, attitude and our after service.

Some clients want everything edited in high resolution on a DVD. They like doing their own printing.

Some clients love exclusive albums. Plus artistic prints. After all everyone prints on photo paper. I offer prints on canvas, on brushed metal, or on ultra modern thick acrilic.

Some clients search for the timeless shots which will become a photographic portrait art sitting somewhere in their house.

I suggest one thing to the future bride and groom. Search your photographer well. Make sure that the person you are meeting is the prerson who will photograph your wedding. Wedding photography industry is like a jungle. At the end, I hope that you will find that special one, then magic will happen at your wedding day.

Today I am shooting a winter wedding at Chateau Vaudreuil Hotel. We have beautiful snow falling upon the city. It will be a beautiful day to create timeless memories.

Cheers,

May love and peace be with you.

Hera Bell

Coffee Time With My Samsung Galaxy SII Android

2012-01-03T14:51:00.001-08:00

January 1st my lovely niece Gigi prepared us the coffee at the end of a perfect supper with the family at my sister's home.

I had to do a snap shot of my coffee sitting on the table right in front of me.

The Turkish coffee tasted yummy as well.

Thanks for the technology of high resolution cell phones. As shot with my Samsung Galaxy SII.

Crisp, clean, colorful... That's how food photography should be. It should say, come and taste me.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Photographing Weddings, Portraits In Montreal West Island And Beyond

2012-01-02T06:57:00.000-08:00

I have never thought I will start working as a wedding photographer in Montreal. Up until the day one of my very lucrative corporate clients has decided to sell the corporation to Yellow Pages.
TOP Wedding Family Portrait Event Photographer serving Montreal from her West Island Photo Studio Glamour Maternity Baby Photos Chateau Vaudreuil Weddings Commercial Professional Mariage Montreal

There and then I wanted to support the hole that was created in my income by getting involved shooting weddings.

As a commercial photographer, shooting ad campaigns, products, portraits, glamour shoots over 15 years, made me realize one thing. Never put your eggs in one basket. That has been one of my secrets to run a successful photo business for over 15 years. It also has been a burden when it came to get a local photo agent. They could not see how someone can shoot anything and everything and do a great job.

Except my photography agent in Italy. Thanks to him, I have never looked back supporting myself fully as a professional photographer. His gain has been everyone elses loss.

Today's day and age, where digital cameras are everywhere, you ask yourself why on earth someone would hire a professional photographer to create memories which will last a lifetime.

People still pay for creativity. People pay for that signature style photography. There are people who still beleive paying for quality work.

I will be photographing a winter wedding this Friday at Chateau Vaudreuil Hotel Suites. Wait till you see what will come out of my camera. :)

Once the hesitant photographer, I now carry under my belt several weddings, and events. I even photographed my share of destination weddings.

For me wedding photography has to be outside of the box, fresh, fun yet timeless. I stay away from cooky cutter photography trends. Current trends come and go and date the photos. Everyone copies them. Therefor they are never a timeless piece of art. You have to be unique to stay apart with a distinct signature style from your evergrowing competition. It is especially important when it comes to wedding and portrait photography. This attitude kept my business attracting a fabulous faithful client base.

So far I photographed a couple's wedding, her belly when she became pregnant, her baby girl at one month old, and recently their family portrait of 3 generation of women. That baby girl is now 3 years old. I will probably photograph her Bat Mitzvah one day if I can still stand on my two feet.

Cheers to love,

Hera Bell

First Day Of 2012

2012-01-01T06:25:00.000-08:00

Another year has now gone.

Eat, drink and be happy.

May you have the ride of your life in 2012.

Play as much as your heart desires.

And if you have suffered from a broken heart, may it mend as fast as a speeding bullet.

Welcome to 2012.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Last But Not Least Portrait And Blog for 2011

2011-12-31T05:55:00.001-08:00

Dee was photographed May 2008 in my studio.

A portrait can have a lot of presence and power. Even when your subject will look away.

I have been told that my portrait photography is all about depicting that aspect of people.

Your work reflects your own attitude. This is true when it comes to painting or any other art form.

Recently I watched Woody Allen's Midnight In Paris. Lovely movie. It is soo Woody. After a life time of psychoanalysis, his movies are all about analysing human relationships in a signature style slow pace.

After watching the movie, I want to go back to Paris. A city where I have spent a part of my tender youth, and stole my first French kiss.

In this photograph her hair, make-up, styling, body paint and photography was all done by me.

Happy New Year to all my friends.

See you all in 2012...

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Tutti Italian

2011-12-29T07:16:00.000-08:00

There is something about Italian made items. As a matter of fact beautiful Italian ladies.

Do I say enough how much I am in love with Italy?

Last summer I photographed a former Italian model in my studio.

The hat is hand made from a Italian designer, the broach is Italian design, the person who is wearing them is Italian.

The only thing non Italian in this affair was me.

Che Bella...

PS: Make-up, hair and styling and photos by Studio Hera Bell.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Magical Christmas To You All

2011-12-25T03:54:00.000-08:00

From my West Island photo studio to your warm cauzy homes, have a magical Christmas everyone.

If you wish for glamour may it sparkle upon you.
If you wish for sucess may it flourish upon your journey.
If you wish a healthy happy life, may it be all year around with you.
If you wish for love, may it find its way towards you.

I thank all my clients and friends for their support.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Hera Bell By Uncle Karekin In 1962

2011-12-24T09:19:00.000-08:00

Who would have guessed back then what I might do later in life?

No one told me back then to take the camera out of it's case to take photos. This is a scan from a tiny contact print on a fiber base paper.

It was shot by my late uncle Karekin (mom's brother) 24th December 1962 during my birthday party in Fethiye Turkey (Mediterranean coast) where my father was building the entire city as the head architect engineer after the massive earthquake.

PS: I guess I have been a good girl this year. I woke up this morning and found an amazing Samsung Galaxy 10.1 tablet for me from my hubby. I am truly in 7th heaven.

I feel sooooooo spoiled.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Christmas Snow In Montreal 2011

2011-12-23T06:14:00.000-08:00

Everyone who wished for a white Christmas this year in Montreal will get one. Your prayers were answered.

This is what I woke up this morning as I was pouring my morning coffee. I had to grab my camera and snap a few shots from behind the kitchen window.

From our kitchen to yours, Merry Xmas everyone.

And I woke up to ice yesterday. Here is how it was from my kitchen window yesterday. God was offering us the world outside in a cristal bowl.

May all your dreams come true, hopefully you have all been good, so Santa will be good for you this year.

Remember is it more fun to give than receive.

I am off to cooking now. I am receiving my family tonight. Dad is recuperating from his operation. Mom is doing good. My sister is happy, she has recently found a new dream job. My niece and nephew (god children)are getting older. My brother in law is a sweetheart.

I am very lucky. I have a fabulous hubby, a warm home and friends I can count on.

It is all year around Christmas in my life. Thank you Santa.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Magical Ice Fall In Montreal

2011-12-22T07:32:00.000-08:00

Getting up very early sometimes can pay off.

I drove my mom to dialyses at 6.30 am. Then I went off shooting in the fields.

Here is a teaser.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Meaning of Christmas

2011-12-21T08:24:00.000-08:00

The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.

Christmas is for children. But it is for grown-ups too. Even if it is a headache, a chore, and nightmare, it is a period of necessary defrosting of chill and hide-bound hearts.

From my home to yours, Merry Christmas everyone.

PS: A cell phone shot with my Samsung Galaxy SII (Android).

Cheers,

Hera Bell

The Last Standing During Winter's Sonata

2011-12-20T04:40:00.001-08:00

“Spring passes and one remembers one's innocence.
Summer passes and one remembers one's exuberance.
Autumn passes and one remembers one's reverence.
Winter passes and one remembers one's perseverance.”

Yoko Ono

Seasons come and go, memories stay. A picture might say a thousand words. I speak though the sound of silence. Do you hear me, Can you feel me?

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Serenity In A Snowy Day

2011-12-19T11:49:00.001-08:00

"To dare to live alone is the rarest courage; since there are many who had rather meet their bitterest enemy in the field, than their own hearts in their closet."

Charles Caleb Colton

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Infrared Photography With Samsung Galaxy SII Cell Phone

2011-12-18T05:46:00.000-08:00

Who said you can't do certain things in life? You don't know until you have tested if you can or you can't.

Last summer Anthony and I were at Montreal's Botanical Gardens, strolling having fun. I was too lazy to carry a camera. So I did some photography with my Android Samsung Galaxy SII that day. However I wanted to shoot some infrared with my cell phone.

Voila, the result... The tonality and the picture's frame was added in PhotoShop. But the shot itself is truly my hubby and I kissing while I photographed our shadow in Infrared. AHA! Now I have got your full attention. :)

I love technically pushing boundaries in photography. This is only one of the examples from many discoveries over 15 years behind the camera.

It isn't a cell phone app. NOPE! You go and figure out the rest if you know the basics of Infrared photography. :)

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Forgotten Remembered

2011-12-17T05:51:00.001-08:00

Some people you try to forget, some others are easy to be forgotten. Some remain in your memory forever, and mark your life to infinity.

You may come across to an old letter, or a photo, or a shape of something which will make you remember the past.

Now it is only up to you, how much longer you want to hang on to a dusty memory, or how much are you ready to forget and move on?

Life can be like a box of chocolates. If the box is empty do you want to keep it much longer? That's the question you always should ask yourself when you are doing some house cleaning in your life.

Soon the stores will be filled with re-organizing gadgets. New Year's resolutions here we come again.

What will be yours this year?

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Yummy Quick Desert

2011-12-13T04:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I made this yummy desert and brought it to mom and dad.

Every layer has different surprise tastes. From espresso coffee, to lemon chiffon, to banana pudding mixed with two berries and profiterole...

It takes 15 minutes to make it.

The presentation is everything. We first eat with our eyes.

The idea started with the glass bowl I bought at Winners few weeks ago.

VOILA! a quick cell phone shot.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Serenity... Wonderful British Columbia

2011-12-12T06:11:00.000-08:00

It was shot on slide film Velvia 50 ISO pushed to 100 ISO. It was a spectacular sunset.

I shot it during our one month by car across Canada trip was sponsored by Fuji Canada. We traveled in a non air condition black sports car for a month. From Montreal to Tofino. We had soo much fun. It was pure magic to discover Canada this way. We even found amazing sand dunes in Saskatchewan somwhere in a very tiny town of poulation 5000, tucked away from most touristic places.

It was during the era of good old slide film era... :) When you could not edit your images. It had to be shot in camera as is. The slides had to be refrigerated. I still have the mini car fridge that Fuji Canada supplied me.

PS: I cropped this shot to make it an 8"x10" for a recent competition entry. Chopped a bit from the bottom a bit from the top.

"Read and be wise" she said It Is All About Cell Phone Photos

2011-12-11T05:46:00.000-08:00

It is still incredible to imagine how far cellphones have come so far.

I own a smart phone. An Android. A very sophisticated Android. Samsung Galaxy SII.

It has an 8 meg camera. What can come out of it is amazing.

I shot this sculpture few days ago. I took the file into Photoshop and edited to give it an older photo look. I used SilverFXPro. Simple, no fuss, much like my old times in the wet darkroom. Except faster and a less messy procedure.

I have few cellphone applications to get similar effects. But I find that some cellphone applications tend to reduce the original file size when they edit the image in the cellphone. Even at their highest saved mode the image sizes are no longer as high as their original capture size. They are great to send it to Facebook, Twitter etc... But to print a fair size print, forget about it.

Voila. The final image file is 22 meg. YUP!

I have printed so far another photo up to 20"x20" metallic print coming out of this cellphone for a client. Yes I said "client". I got paid... The lady bought the image as a wall art for his husband's Westmount office wall.

Happy snappings everyone. A camera is just a tool of the trade. Never forget that.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Hanging On

2011-12-09T06:22:00.000-08:00

"Hang on to life," he whispered, "it is sweet as the morning sun hitting your window on a cold winter day." She had his wrinkly hands in hers with tears in her eyes, trying to hide her sorrow.

None of them wanted to depart from each other. Even though they both knew that it was comming.

"They don't teach you how to say goodbye. They don't teach you how to to die"

Yesterday I ventured into a park where nature was struggling between Winter and Fall. It was cold, but I felt fresh and close to God.

Today I say "Hang in there as much as you can. Learn to love and cherish. Don't be bitter. Be true to yourself. Life is too sweet and fragile"...

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Love Potion

2011-12-08T07:40:00.000-08:00

I had shot this experimental image this year late summer on my kitchen table. The sky background was added later on.

It sat there in my image files. I was telling myself, I'll shoot better one another day.

Few days ago I showed it to Frank. His first reaction was "WOW! It is a very sexy shot"... I wondered what was sexy about it.

Then I e-mailed it to my agent in Italy. Boy did he ever see things.... Then, I started looking at this image from much of a different angle. Certain things people started seeing were not digital ad-ons. They are in the raw file shot in front of a white background.

If you see beyond the smoke, you'll discover a world of hidden symbols which others pointed out to me.

Can you see them?

PS: During my fashion designing studies we went through classes analysing advertisement with hidden sexual subliminal elements. Most of them were drinks. As Freud would say, I should go deep in my Iceberg and find out what am I really doing? To me it is product photography. To others it can be something totally much more.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Starry Night

2011-12-05T19:56:00.000-08:00

Insanity used to be a much underrated part of the human condition. When we might see a person that doesn't fit our description of a regular sane being, then we might call them insane.

Not too long ago in some medical circles gays were considered as mentally insane people.

Several creative people are unusual beings. Not necessarily insane.

After an evening of laughter at a nearby pub, I shot this cell phone shot of Christmas lights.

It is my dreamy stary night. I hope it will be yours as well.

Sweet dreams little lambs. I do not need to count you to fall asleep tonight. I don't suffer from sleepless nights. I feel sorry for my friends who do.

Here are the lyrics below from the song. Here is to Vincent Van Gogh. You don't have to suffer anymore. Sleep tight.

Starry, starry night.
Paint your palette blue and grey,
Look out on a summer's day,
With eyes that know the darkness in my soul.
Shadows on the hills,
Sketch the trees and the daffodils,
Catch the breeze and the winter chills,
In colors on the snowy linen land.

Now I understand what you tried to say to me,
How you suffered for your sanity,
How you tried to set them free.
They would not listen, they did not know how.
Perhaps they'll listen now.

Starry, starry night.
Flaming flowers that brightly blaze,
Swirling clouds in violet haze,
Reflect in Vincent's eyes of china blue.
Colors changing hue, morning field of amber grain,
Weathered faces lined in pain,
Are soothed beneath the artist's loving hand.

Now I understand what you tried to say to me,
How you suffered for your sanity,
How you tried to set them free.
They would not listen, they did not know how.
Perhaps they'll listen now.

For they could not love you,
But still your love was true.
And when no hope was left in sight
On that starry, starry night,
You took your life, as lovers often do.
But I could have told you, Vincent,
This world was never meant for one
As beautiful as you.

Starry, starry night.
Portraits hung in empty halls,
Frameless head on nameless walls,
With eyes that watch the world and can't forget.
Like the strangers that you've met,
The ragged men in the ragged clothes,
The silver thorn of bloody rose,
Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow.

Now I think I know what you tried to say to me,
How you suffered for your sanity,
How you tried to set them free.
They would not listen, they're not listening still.
Perhaps they never will...

A Canadian Teddy Bear Winter.... Brrrrr

2011-12-05T05:33:00.000-08:00

Winter hasn't arrived with its full force yet in Montreal. Several of my skier friends are missing the white blanket to slide on.

However myself, I am still enjoying the 8 Celsius winter days.

To all my nostalgic friends who miss the snow, today's Blog post it for you.

On to another note. When my hubby and I used to do camping, we came across several bears. To me they looked like teddy bears. Cuddly soft and sweet. However I was told to be careful.

My hubby calls me a bear bate. I seem to attract them in rows.

Can you see it in this photo? This one was a big one. Apperanbtly they sometimes venture out of their winter den, especially if they are housed at a Natural zoo. Shall I call him Yogi?

PS: To see it larger just click on the shot.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Photographing Yourself With Cell Phone

2011-12-04T08:34:00.001-08:00

Life is all about experimentation. Otherwise it can get often quite boring.

Cell phone self portraits are becoming more and more common around these days. Instant gratification is the name of the game.

Pose, snap, upload...

Yesterday, I noticed sun penetrating through my office window. I snap shot another self portrait. Voila.

I was going to shopping the other day. I experimented with my cell phone. The phone was sitting in it's case on the car's window. I snap shot this self portrait.

None of them I would consider quality shots. But they give you that instant gratification. N'est ce pas?

PS: for everyone who asks if my eyelashes are fake... My answer is nope they are real. Natural... Mascara enhances them.

I now go and get ready for a real family portrait session in my West Island photo studio. Time to work... :)

Cheers,

Hera Bell

In The World Of Books And Selling Photography

2011-12-01T16:00:00.000-08:00

A week ago another so called big name organisation contacted me.

The pretext was that they are publishing a book on Masters Of Photography, a juried competition book. The catch was, instead of them paying me, I have to pay them to get in the book. By the way, they love my portfolio. blah blah.... Trust me, they are a known group. Besides the book project, they act as consultants to exhibit photograhers at a Las Vegas gallery space. Meaning we'll exhibit you if you pay us. hahaha

I sent them today an e-mail, telling them, I get paid to get published. I wished them all the best... yadadi yadada...

I get such proposals almost every month.

Years ago I was getting excited getting receiving such e-mails. I got published without any payment few times, I got books in return. Back then I wasn't where I am today. And I hope that I am a bit smarter. Trust me.

This week I sold this image to a Japanese travel magazine. 300 Euros worth, one time publication rights world wide for a year. Agent takes 50%. But at the end it isn't being published for free. Nor I am paying them to get published.

Be VERY careful in the big "World Wilde Wolf" world. Don't become a sucker just for a moment of fame.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Rust Art! Really?

2011-11-29T18:33:00.000-08:00

Last summer I was going to attend a lunch meeting. I arrived to the parking lot. Got out of my car. Here I was facing a crazy color sports car with a rust spot screaming at me "Photograph me. Please... Pretty please"...

This is where an 8 mega pixel cell phone camera might come handy.

I pointed the cell phone, no zooming, close enough and I captured this shot as is. No funky applications. Artsy fartsy stuff to make a photo look better. This is naked truth coming out of a cell phone.

Some might call it art. Hang it on their wall. Maybe one day. The shot is all about explosion of color and subtle textures.

You never know where and what you might run into to photograph. This is one fine example of what I mean.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

The World Wide Web Photo Circulation

2011-11-28T14:25:00.000-08:00

I attend a fund raiser fashion show. Then I discover my photos all over the web. Check this out.

Next time they will sit me where I ended up sitting (front row) I better be more careful. hehehe

I find this shot the most amusing. As if I don't see enough skin at work everyday. Thank God I hide nada from my hubby. hahaha

PS:I can't credit the photographer, because there was no mention of his name.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Photographing Architectural Subject Matter

2011-11-27T05:51:00.000-08:00

There are very few basic fundamental points one should take in consideration when photographing an architectural structure.

You should first start paying attention to all the dynamic converging lines that will impact the viewer.

Noticing the shadows and taking advantage of them in order to show the dimensional nature of your subject.

The angle you will choose to photograph the subject will play a big role in the final impact.

A building doesn't have a smile, eyes to look at you and it never moves certain ways to charm its viewer. Therefor to capture it's soul, character or beauty it is entirely in your hands.

This shot was taken last summer with a cell phone in Montreal. Composed as is. Start analysing everything I pointed out above.

Happy shooting everyone.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Ghosts Etc.

2011-11-26T06:22:00.000-08:00

I scream calling you into the dark of the night.
Can you hear me?
Do you feel me?

A breeze will caress your skin,
It will be only me,
Making you shiver,
And wonder...

I exists,
I am not just a dream.

Do not ignore me.
Don't anger me.

PS: Two images combined into one. The location was shot with a Lumix G1 in Florence. The dummy was shot with a Galaxy SII cellphone during Jean Paul Gauthier's Montreal exhibit last summer. Voila...

Cheers,

Hera Bell

My Visually Stunning Day

2011-11-25T08:43:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had such a wonderful day. I was among friends, tasted wonderful food, drank fabulous wines and visually got stimulated.

All the shots were done with my cellphone. To see it larger please click on the image.

Thank you M, R, F, A.... You know who you are. (wink) (wink)

Thank you God...

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Happy Thanksgiving America

2011-11-24T05:59:00.000-08:00

I wish to all my American friends, family and Blog followers a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Enjoy the harvest and be thankful on what you have got, but not what you want to have.

Times are though. All around the world. Europe suffers. Americans are tired of loosing their homes and income.

But hope is still there. That's what makes the human race resilient. We have previous generations who survived wars,famine and revolutions.

To America, enjoy your Thanksgiving today.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

I Dream Of Jeannie

2011-11-23T16:48:00.000-08:00

In 1965 a United States astronaut found his life vastly complicated when he stumbled on to a bottle containing a female genie.

The rest became history for the next five years. As a certain generation watched a pink outfitted Middle Eastern North Americanized "blond" lady entertaining us with her blinking.

Today's modern era people get entertained by watching reality TV shows, shows that we take great pride in watching people get rejected by elimination day and day out. In a world where people like Kardahians built a media frenzy empire where they become instant celebrities. Why? Because the mass population is hungry to follow such made up stories.

We live in an era that women refuse ageing. Many end up with super stretched faces with permanent silly smiles stamped on their faces. That's the new concept of beauty at 50.

And all this is called POP culture. Could you give me a break? Please....

Today I pay homage to human vanity. Please do enjoy the photo.:)

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Fall Colors Captured With Cell Phone

2011-11-22T05:49:00.000-08:00

You never know where and what you might discover. Photographically speaking.

Therefor my Samsung Galaxy SII has now become for a while an integral part of my photographic adventures.

The other day I went to a Mall nearby. At the parking lot I noticed the bush. The little leaves were so colorful. I took out my cell phone and snap shot this image. A passer near by looked at me as if I had lost my mind. What was I doing bending down and pointing my cell phone on a bush? hahaha

Voila... This was what I was after. Shot full frame. Yes the colors are so real. They were pink like that. It had rained, so the leave wet. So that wetness gave some areas that blue/purple hues.

The resolution is so amazing that it can be printed very well as a 14"x16" print easily.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Pet Photography With Cell Phone

2011-11-21T06:05:00.000-08:00

Today I would like to introduce you my parent's dog "Peanut"... Peanut is a mixture of miniature Yorkshire Terrier and miniature sausage dog.

She is fully grown, full of life doggy.

At times she thinks she is a human. Yesterday she was sitting on my lap at the dinner table watching us talk. I snapped the shot with my cell phone. Then I changed the background from my body to a black background.

Isn't she cute? She refused to look into the camera. Therefor I ended up with this shot. You think photographing hyperactive pets while they sit on your lap was an easy task? Think again. (smiles)

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Homage To Grigory Rasputin

2011-11-19T09:55:00.000-08:00

"Before we can repent, we have to sin."

"I don't hate anyone. And yet, so many enemies. I'm not rich, what I get, I give away, I take no vengeance on the men I remove from office. When you fall, I won't abuse you."

"I've been poisoned... you tried to kill me... you all have. You silly fools... I thought I could trust you... you silly fools... you can't even KILL properly. You're too small to destroy me. "

Grigori Rasputin

Have a wonderful week-end.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

The King Of Decadence

2011-11-18T09:05:00.000-08:00

I will bath you in gold, just promise me you'll only be mine, he said. Little did he know he could not buy love, nor own her.

The King of Decadence became very sad and destroyed the town that her concubine lived.

At the end one wonders, who was the looser?

Anger never makes one a "winner" in the matters of heart.

PS: Shot at my backyard with available late afternoon light with Lumix GH2 at 800 ISO and f/6.5.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

November Table Setting & Serving Lunch

2011-11-17T06:11:00.000-08:00

We first eat with our eyes. For me cooking well is as import rant as serving your meals in style.

Today I will host a luncheon at our home for few friends. And here it is how the table setting will be. This is a snap shot with my Samsung Galaxy SII. Shown at its full resolution. Click on it and see how large the image file is.

Have a wonderful day everyone.

PS the menu will have sea food overtures, from the soup to the main dish.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Winter Is Coming

2011-11-16T07:49:00.000-08:00

There is something quite poetic about a beautiful frost. Especially during early Fall. The fiery leaves coated with the powdery sugar like ice can become an amazing photographic adventure.

This was shot many moons ago. I was driving towards my downtown photo studio that day. My eyes caught the frosty leaves. I isolated by zooming in to this particular one. The sky was spectacular. A beautiful overcast moment made this image happen.

It has been among the best sellers in my greeting cards collection.

They say Friday we might receive snow in Montreal. Today it will be 14 Celsius. Enjoy it while it last.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Exploring Colors Of Fall

2011-11-15T06:14:00.000-08:00

It has been fun exploring Fall colors over several years.

Here is a retrospective depicting few samples. From 1999 till 2010... From Fuji Velvia slide film (50 ISO pushed to 100 ISO) to various digital cameras. Canon 40D and Lumix G1.

Enjoy images from this beautiful season in North America. The title of each image carries more information.

Your camera is just a tool of the trade. Your personal visual vision is something else. Together they become very powerful.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Bathing Medusa

2011-11-13T05:43:00.000-08:00

It was a very fine summer night. I saw Medusa bathing in the calm water of the lake. The bloody red moon was reflecting on the dark night's sky as the black crow was flying to protect her Mistress from all the strangers.

Our eyes met for a moment o so. She looked right into my eyes. I felt a shiver or two.

Then I woke up in sweat. It was all a dream. Just a figment of my imagination.

PS: To see it on a black background and much larger just click on the photo.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Francis Gram, A Friend's Many Portraits

2011-11-12T07:14:00.000-08:00

Frank has been a good friend for several years now. Now retired, he spends his time photographing anything he comes across. He particularly loves shooting nature. He is funny and very witty. I laugh a lot when I am around my buddy Frank.

Over the years I snapped few shots of Frank.

Today, I would like to create a Blog post just for him.

Here we go Frank. To the multi layer man you are, much miss understood at times, to you dear buddy. Enjoy this Blog post, and your fame for the day. (smiles)

A very recent snap shot of Frank shot this week while he was assisting me with Ilhan Karabacak's shoot. Shot with Lumix GH2.

Shot during one of our many photo outings together.

He collects what he calls "orphin lenses".

Sometimes he might even pose for me as a "ghost"

He assists me during some shoots and we end up with happy accidents like this one.

Photography passion puts people sometimes in funny situations. Here is a moment captured as he was shooting a model during one of my photography workshops.

A rebel always appreciates another one.

You can also visit his Flickr page to sample some of his work.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/59328647@N02/

Cheers...

Hera Bell

11-11-11

2011-11-11T05:32:00.001-08:00

The world might be getting a little bit rusty, but I try to keep a fresh and clean visual vision.

Enjoy 11-11-11... November 11-2011.

I made it alive till to this day. Hurray.

It is a 20" wide image, to see it larger just click on it.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Photographing Ilhan Karabacak

2011-11-10T06:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I photographed Ilhan Karabacak a third time in my life. He traveled from Las Vegas for the shoot.

Ilhan dances in Zumanity of Cirque Du Soleil in Las Vegas. He was chosen to dance as a very androgynous sexy character in the show.

He brought few costumes of his own and the day started at 11.30 am. And we ended it around 4.30pm.

I asked my good friend Francis Gram to assist me. Ilhan and Karima arrived together to my West Island photo studio. The weather was warm and beautiful.

I would like to share with you today few teasers from yesterday's photo session.

By clicking on the image you can enlarge it to see details.

I was testing my lights. Frank was posing for me. Then Ilhan just passed by in front of Frank as I was clicking the shutter. A happy accident made this image happen. I LOVE it.

A portrait study with Ilhan.

Trying To Shed A Culture...

The Dance Of The King. His attire and the entire styling remined me King Harrods.

The weather was great, we stepped out at my backyard. I call this shot Ilhan's Mirage... It was shot at the large steps of our deck.

And finally la piece de resistance... A Florentine Masquerade... He actually glued all the shimmering flowers and leaves on a large Chinese fan right on my kitchen table. When he arrived yesterday to the airport, even though he had his green card the Canadian officials were curious the reason of his visit to Montreal. He was honest and he told them he is traveling to get photographed by Hera Bell. They assumed he will be paid by me. On the contrary he said "I am paying Hera Bell to photograph me"... They went though his luggages, saw the glittery flowers, the amazing costumes. I am wondering what was going on in the mind of the immigration officers at that point? I find that it was probably a unusual situation.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

A Frosty Montreal Morning

2011-11-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

As I was putting the bird food for the neighbourhood birds, I couldn't help grabbing my camera and snap shot these two images. Then I had to compose them somehow together.

From my backyard with love. Winter is coming. However this Sunday we will have a sunny 14 Celsius in Montreal. It will be a great way to join the new photographer's group to explore Downtown Montreal. I am looking forward to that.

Poor New York... They got the heavy snow. Who knows Montreal soon might become the Northern Florida one day. Global warming they say might create dramatic changes.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Photographing With Lumix GH2... What a Camera...

2011-11-04T05:56:00.000-07:00

When imagination has no boundaries sometimes interesting things can happen. Why shoot the ordinary way?

Abla (my subject)could never imagine where she will be standing next. Make-up and styling was done by me. Sometimes all you need is a piece of tulle as clothing. Now that's what I call true style. Not your ordinary fashion statement.

Camera was Lumix GH2.

Thanks Ronda... Your bathroom looks fabulous darling.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

A New York Moment

2011-11-03T06:09:00.001-07:00

When we travel to New York we like to rent an apartment in the West village. It is close to Soho, The East Village. The nightlife is amazing so is the day life activities.

Sometimes we even walk to Broadway. It is a long walk but it is fun to walk in downtown New York since Broadway and Time square became almost safe Disneyland territory. 42'nd street doesn't smell urine anymore.

In June 2010 we were walking in the Soho and this is what we came across. Live models in a window of a menswear store.

Do you recognise the paintings they are emulating?

Enjoy this New York moment.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

My WormHole

2011-11-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

I want to create a wormhole
Where I can seek refuge
From time to time.

I can create one in my imagination.
Thank God for that.

Today Montreal will be sunny and 15 Celsius.
Christine wanted it that way.

Hera Bell

I Will Lay A Stone For You

2011-11-01T05:56:00.001-07:00

I will lay a stone for you,
Where the grass grows green
Where the sun baths the flowers.

I don't want to forget you.
I still hear you sing
I still hear you laugh
I still want to hold you
And hug you tight.

At this fine autumn day
When we lay you in the ground
And say our final goodbye
Do you see us?
Do you hear us?
Can you feel our sorrow?

Our loving fragile sparrow...
Christine Ann Atallah...

Hera Bell

Loosing Christine Atallah... Soo Young...

2011-10-31T10:53:00.000-07:00

My husband and I met Christine many moons ago at a get together. We have been friends since then.

Her unexpected death last Friday/Saturday morning stunned the entire artistic community. None of us can still believe that she has passed away so suddenly.

She was a very talented singer. She had produced several great records. She was performing on stage last Friday, and collapsed at the back stage.

Angels took her away from us.

She died very young and at the height of her music career at the age of 46.

I was asked to photograph her in 2003. I gave the session as a gift to her. Although I had full model release signed by her I have never released most of the shots to public. I will still treasure many of them. They are in slides, and negatives. Yes this was not during the digital era...

Today I share only one portrait of her from our session. I get inspired by my clients. This was my inspiration how I saw her.

A Bedouin, who traveled far and beyond, a free spirited woman in a very men's world. She had piercing deep eyes and she was very feminine. She loved life, her music and friends.

May your soul's journey be filled with light and peace my "petite moineau"...

Let us pray.

your friend,

Hera Bell

Wall Art Part II Journey Of An Image

2011-10-29T04:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I visited mom and dad and shared a cup of coffee with them.

The while flowers were sitting in their living room. I snapped a close-up with my cell phone.

This morning I used one of the textures I had created few years ago as an overlay.

Voila. As simple as this. If printed on the right media, exhibited in the right decor, it will look great. To see all the details in the texture click on to the image to enlarge it. You will not regret.

Enjoy your week-end and Fall. We closed our vegetable garden. I have still tones of Italian parsley growing, they are well and alive. Isn't nature wonderful?

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Herbal Ouvertures and Homage to Barton

2011-10-28T04:43:00.000-07:00

Today I would like to pay homage to Barton W. (1818-1825)....

None of the components in the final image came from his herbal sketches.

Some floor tiles at a mall shot with a cell phone, few very old postcards of herbal sketches. Voila.

Do you see it on someones wall? Who knows?

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Photographing Black Muscle Men In Studio

2011-10-22T06:05:00.000-07:00

The year was 1997,October 27 was the last time I saw John in my studio. He was renting my downtown Montreal photography studio to conduct a photo shoot for an upcoming book project. John was from New York.

I actually did a Blog post and snapped few shots of him that day. The link is below. You can compare what happened to his body in a period of two years.

http://www.myphotoramblings.com/2009/10/john-clement-iton.html?zx=3194b602562997be

I got a phone call from him when I was in London this summer. He wanted to travel to Montreal and get photographed by me as a client. This time the images were going to appear at his upcoming personal trainer web site.

This meant only one thing. His body was probably more built.

We scheduled the date of the shoot in my new photo studio in West Island. He traveled from New York for the shoot.

Voila few teasers for your eyes.

Shooting dark skin against a black background is considered low key. It is all about clever lighting. It is all about bringing out the details of the muscle formations.

Then I shot few head shots, I wanted to shoot in a brighter decor. Voila. A very personable portrait of John truly representing the smooth gentleman that he is in real life.

Best of luck John Iton. Thank you for giving me permission to show off your amazing body to my Blog followers.

All the B&W shots are shot in camera with Lumix GH2 and one studio strobe. The white decor is shot with availabe light with the same camera at 400 ISO.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

As The Wind Blew

2011-10-21T05:23:00.000-07:00

Every breath I take I thank God for what I have. As the wind blows and start caressing my hair, I feel alive and a part of the nature itself.

The seeds fly away to make new flowers, as people come and go in and out of our lives. Some mark their spot, some are easily forgotten.

Life is a cycle of incidents. You always rip what you saw.

We had heavy winds and some great rain falls over the past few days. Some might say nature was crying. I say they were the tears of joy.

Perception of yourself reflects upon your relationships with others.

I am happy with my garden of life. The rest is totally irrelevant.

PS: The shoot lasted one hour in total. Make-up time was included in that period. I did end up with 5 different looks with the same subject. One of the images will be exhibited in March 2012. You'll only see that one then. Meanwhile enjoy these 4 images.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

One On One Glamour Portrait Workshops In Montreal

2011-10-16T07:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Adrian, Ronda and me we put into bed another very successful portrait/glamour workshop in my West Island photo studio.

Adrian contacted me from Australia few months ago to book a one on one workshop with me.

He sits in an international panel of 17 people who make the rules as Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

He arrived to my studio yesterday to attend the workshop. He was so nice, he even brought us several gifts from Australia.

He has been photographing since very young age. He had already been exposed to wet darkroom. He is a wonderful landscape and cityscape photographer. He wanted to learn how to photograph great portraits and how to edit them.

To him, I was the right person to spend 5 hours with and learn the trade of portrait photography.

I hired Ronda as our model. Ronda has proven to be reliable, easy going and a very beautiful young lady to hire for such projects. I have a list of such wonderful models who are very professional in their trade.

Results speak louder then words. We used only one studio strobe with umbrella when we did the workshop indoors.

Voila, few of Adrian's results.

Then they stepped out at my backyard for few minutes.

The best way to teach someone about composition and how to direct your subjects is by example.

Before our model arrived we spent half an hour teaching lighting set-ups. For this we use each other as subjects. Here is Adrian's portrait shot by me with one studio strobe. at 1/125 shutter f/8 at 160 ISo with my Lumix GH2...

Then I shot few images of Ronda on available tungsten modeling light emanating from my flash, without flash, as Ronda was posing for Adrian.

Manual mode iso 500 at 1/40 shutter f/4.5 with Lumix GH2.

Teaching gives me great pleasure.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Top Wedding Trends in Montreal, Photography of Details

2011-10-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

There are some amazing wedding trends happening in Montreal. The discriminating bride and the groom who can afford to hire the best in the wedding industry in Montreal end up with amazing thematic fantasy weddings.

From table settings, to invitation card, to chairs, couches and amazing floral designs our wonderful town promises the best in the industry.

I was very fotunate to capture in photos the details of some of the very memorable trend setting wedding decors.

Enjoy the collage. To see the details you can click on the contact sheet.

I am proud to be the wedding photographer to capture such beautiful detail shots in Montreal.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

People & Ethics

2011-10-14T08:02:00.000-07:00

"Always remember that there is someone who's smarter than you. So...before you think of doing something...especially with bad intentions...think first and before you act...because in the end...the joke could be on you."

I recently met Soula, a wonderful lady. I borrowed the quote from her. I find it to be very true.

People can screw you only once, at the end you raise above all by keeping your ethics in order. Success is not gained by stepping upon others, but by being good at what you do and by staying honest.

I just signed a very lucrative contract with a brand new multi national organisation. Learn from your past mistakes and do not repeat them.

The image was shot at Eco museum in St Anne de Bellevue. I think it fits the subject matter of today's Blog. Have a wonderful week-end.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Fire And Ice Romancing The Stone With A Cell Phone

2011-10-11T05:49:00.000-07:00

The beauty of photographing textures allows you to create sometimes nice abstract wall art.

Stones are no exception. You don't have to go to exotic trips to photograph such things. You can find things and make great discoveries right at your backyard in Montreal.

Believe it or not the two images here were shot with my cell phone in my cell phone. With some clever interpolation they can be printed as large as a 20"x24" prints without showing any pixelation.

Romancing this stone and some hosta flowers near by for few seconds were not such bad ideas after all.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Canadian Fall Colors Shot With Cell Phone

2011-10-10T07:14:00.000-07:00

It amazes me what can come out of my cell phone as photography. Shot in HDR in my cell phone (Samsung Glaxi SII), here is a beautiful Canadian garden scape in Fall.

Enjoy the beauty of the saturated colors. We live in a beautiful country.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

My Thanksgiving Dinner Table

2011-10-09T06:21:00.001-07:00

Last night I hosted a small Thanksgiving dinner to my hubby's side of the family.

We were suppose to gather at 6pm at our home. Then we got a phone call at 3pm, my sister in law announcing us that our nephew injured his finger and they were at Children Hospital's ER. 4 hours waiting time.

I thank God all went well at the end, he got 3 stitches. We started eating around past 8pm. The turkey was not dry and everyone had fun.

This year I wanted a Hollywood glam style table setting. It was all about shimmer. Cristal napkin holders, grey organza napkins, black leather place mates, silver chargers and white plates. Each wine glass had the names of the guests for seating.

There was not one single orange color on the table.

After few drinks and some appetizers my main menu started with home made sea food chowder. It continued with mini colorful roasted peppers in olive oil and drizzled with reduced balsamic with porchini and smoked Pacific salmon. With my turkey this year I served mashed sweet potato with pecans, home made cranberry with nuts and orange peels, steamed veggies with Japanese vinaigrette. The desert was simple, a scoop of vanilla ice cream with fresh strawberries drizzled with coffe & caramel liqueur and two Florentine cookies served in a martini glass.

And we have leftovers. Yummy. I don't have to cook today. Lucky me. The weather is fabulous, we will go out and walk.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Photos are snap shots with my cell phone Samsung Galaxi SII.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Power Of A Woman

2011-10-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

Power comes from within. Strength is only earned through bad and good experiences.

If you act like a victim, you'll be seen as a victim.

Love first who you are, feel comfortable in your own skin, then you'll see how the rest of the world will treat you.

Some people you might come across on your pathway might be intimidated by you. Don't judge them, they are only the weak kind.

As women we give birth, work, nurture and love. Without us there shall not be a future for the human kind.

I will celebrate womanhood today. To all my girlfriends and lady Blog followers cheers to you girls.

I now go and start preparing a Thanksgiving feast. :) I am thankful to all that I have and lived.

Hera Bell

Weddings And Romancing The Water Show In Montreal

2011-10-07T04:56:00.000-07:00

The season of Fall is fast approaching and soon the Montreal's wedding photography season will take its break just before we enter our snowy winter season.

I just wanted to tease you with a photo of a wedding in downtown Montreal. Night photography needs clever lighting, but it can create some very smart moody wedding photos. This time the location was as grand as the wedding gown of the bride.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

In Memory Of Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T05:48:00.000-07:00

The world lost a great innovator yesterday.

Steve beleived that with great imagination and passion towards what you choose to do in life, you can conquer and invent the unimaganable.

Steve had a great sense for design. Interestingly he has never finished his university. Probably he was too smart for that. He was a great calligrapher.

To all Apple lovers, and his loving family I offer my hearthfelt condolences.

Regards,

Hera Bell

Brasserie T At The Heart Of Quartier Des Spectles

2011-10-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

Last night we have spent a fabulous time in the company of our dear Florentine friends Sandro and Donata at Brasserie T, located in the heart of Quartier des spectacles in Montreal.

The food was fabulous. The service was fantastic.

We all started with a yummy sea food chowder.

I chose my favorite dish steak tartare and french fries. Sandro Donata and Anthony shared a plate of Cote de Cochon avec jus de bacon, accompagne with Gnocchi, matsutake champignons et lardons. The sauce was reduced red wine with bacon juice.

Then deserts as you can see were sublime.

They have a great wine list to choose from.

It is a busy charming small bistro to experience.

http://www.brasserie-t.com/

Alexis, thank you for your friendly service. Vous etes tres sympa.

The photos are snap shots with my Samsung Galaxy SII cellphone. This Blog is very Franglais. We live in Montreal. (sourire)

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Ghost Of The Crying Maiden

2011-10-04T06:14:00.000-07:00

Today I felt like creating a bit of a film noire a la Hera Bell.

The dummy was shot with my Samsung Galaxy SII cell phone during Jean Paul Gauthier's exhibit opening.

If you want to see the original shot out of the smart phone please refer to the link below:

http://www.myphotoramblings.com/2011/10/jean-paul-gauthier-true-living-legend.html

The staircase was shot with a Lumix GH2 this past summer.

As you have guessed it is a collage.

Your camera is just a tool. They say your imagination sets you apart from others as an artist. Thank you Darroch pointing that out last night at your presentation. It was great hearing your story and getting to know your landscape photography.

Photography as a hobby is fun, but fun does not mean offer mediocre cellphone shots and call it fun photo art. Cellphones have come a long way.

Let's see what the new IPhone 5 that will be launched today will offer more to surpass the Android Samsung Galaxy SII... Adobe already shifting their new tablet app developments towards Android tablets. That already tells you a lot. Watch out Mac. The competition is getting stiffer.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Freedom Of Speech

2011-10-03T06:26:00.000-07:00

Dictators are cowards. They disguise their insecurities through their power hunger over others.

In the eyes of a dictator there two kinds of people. Either you are with him or against him.

Dictators come in all ages. They are among us, in every segment of our society.

Freedom of speech is every human being's basic right.

Speak up, if you feel that you are the target of a dictator. Don't be a coward like his disciples.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Jean Paul Gauthier A True Living Legend In Fashion

2011-10-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

As a former fashion designer, I had the opportunity to mingle with JP during several Parisian Pret A Porter events. As a matter of fact I was designing during the early 80's where Gauthier, Montana and Mugler were the invincible trio on European fashion runways. Montana's ultra large shoulder pads, Mugler's moulded colorful plastic corsets, Gauthier's discovery of London's underground S&M scene which later on influenced him tremendously creating some of his sculptural leather fashion collections, I have seen them all. I was there right in the action of all. Living, breathing, eating fashion 24 hours. I often touched these collections at the backstages of fashion extravaganzas in Paris.

This being said, if you missed Gauthier's retrospective exhibit in our Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, you missed a BIG visual feast this year.

I loved it how JP's geniusness was so well curated as unique as his collections.

Several dummies had projected faces, and as you were standing in front of them they were all telling you a story. Their eyes were closing, faces were moving. It was simply sublime. Animated dummies. Only Jeam Paul could pull out something like this.

At the opening night of the exhibit, there was a huge congregation of Montreal's entire fashion industry and models, some of these young beauties weren't even conceived in the early 80's where JP started making his big mark. That evening everyone wanted a photo op standing next to JP.. JP is known for his love of attention. So he was in designer heaven with his Montreal boyfriend. He is the first "l'enfant terrible" of the French fashion world, a well earned title.

They allowed cameras without flash. I just tucked my Samsung Galaxy SII cellphone in my tiny red Chanel purse. I was there to enjoy the exhibit, not to act like a crazy photographer.

Here are few more samples what was exhibited. Just few snap shots with a cellphone. What I call mini teasers.

And two digital add ons a la Hera Bell. I mean the heads of two of my models are superimposed by me on two of the dummies wearing JP's extraordinary designs. Yup, the head of Scarlett James and Elena Pearl.

To you JP, may you design many more years cheri. You are simply a design genius and a survivor in a very unforgiving industry called "FASHION".

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Extreem Transformation In My Montreal Glamour Photography Studio

2011-09-28T06:46:00.001-07:00

I have been doing glamour transformations over 14 years in my Montreal photography studio. Back then I started doing this with film. Way before convenience of digital photography turned everyone into a photographer.

Some of my clients were celebrities, some where housewives, some were doctors/surgeons or CEO's.

Most of these photos you will not see. They stay in my photo archives. They are private photos of my private clients.

When I do a glamour make-over photo session, I usually work solo... I have found that majority of my clients are shy and working one on one with them without the distraction of a large team, puts them at ease, and makes my work of directing them easy.

I take great pride in doing the make-up of all my glamour make-over clients.

Helene Simard is a comedian, dancer. She is an all around creative girl. She gave me a model release so that you can see how far I can go while creating a transformation.

Here is Helene as I started on her transformation.

And here is one of the finished images. Both of the subjects in this photo are Helene Simard. The photo shoot happened in my Montreal studio.

Success does not necessarly brings you happiness. Happiness should bring you the success you dream of. If you are happy with what you do in life you are successful already.

All In A Days Work

2011-09-26T17:58:00.000-07:00

A typical day in a suburbia stay at home housewife's life. Times might have changed, but some habits die hard.

It used to be talk=gossip on the phone, now it is texting, get together with a girlfriend for tea time, now of days you don't even need to do that, there is Skype, order on-line some gourmet packaged dinners instead of serving the good old fashion TV dinners , oh yeah, do some laundry... You gotta hide the evidence from your husband at the end of the day. There is no more milkman, but now we have the cyberspace dating sites. They say it is safer. Yeah! Baby... The only virus you'll get that was is in your computer.

Disclaimer: I hope you can see the humour in this. :) The characters depicted in this photo are fictional. Nobody was harmed during the creation of this shot. I thank my friends Jayne and Ronda collaborating in this project.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Producing Great Cell Phone Photography

2011-09-23T04:58:00.000-07:00

Cell phone photography has become the latest craze in our present world of instant visual stimulation.

It's connivance has brought many photography enthusiasts out of their caves of hibernation.

Several developed applications like Instagram for Apple's Iphone can create very interesting effects when it reaches the hands of some very creative people. Iphone has also a superimposition application. Roger Guetta uses it often.

http://www.rogerguetta.com/

Check out Roger's work with IPhone. It is simply sublime. He is a Montrealer. We have got tones of talents in town.

As you all know I have a Samsung Galaxy SII now. I have been putting it into great use. Here are some of my experimentation with it.

I realized that I can print very good quality 8"x10" prints. One of photo labs I frequent Provisia (www.provisia.ca) tells me that they have printed up to 11"x14" prints with photos out of certain cell phones.

Cell phone photography is here to stay. It is up to you what you create with it.

I always say, the camera is just a tool. That's all.

All the images in this Blog belong to Studio Hera Bell (me). No copying without my permission is allowed.

Keep on shooting. And thank you for visiting.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Our July Photography Workshop In Montreal

2011-09-19T07:29:00.000-07:00

A good photography workshop is all about learning and getting better at the trade. Sharing a friendly time together. . Building a powerful portfolio. Results count and speak louder than any words.

LSPR: Learning Sharing Portfolio Results

Yesterday I finally hosted our July photo workshop's discussion part.

We had 6 participants, only 4 of them could attend the discussion get together.

They each received their two 11"x17" prints.

We then did proceed to sit down and discuss the results from each participants over some fine wine and small munchies. Which included of me teaching few portrait editing tricks.

Some of the four participant's results from our discussion day last Sunday.

You can visit the link below about this workshop.

http://www.myphotoramblings.com/2011/07/another-great-photography-workshop-was.html

My group on-location with live model workshops consist of maximum 6 participants. The fee is $200.00 per person. The participants share a full day of shooting with allowances made for behind the scene photo's. They get two large prints and they attend a discussion day and share a glass of wine.

I also host one on one workshops with a live model. Please contact me to book a half a day session (4 hours 30 minutes). The cost is $450.00. Two hours model's fee is included in this "one on one workshop package" in my studio or on-location.

Cheers,

Hera

New York, Colors From Brooklyn Bridge

2011-09-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

It is always a very invigorating experience to visit New York. Even if you travel for a day, for an in and out photo assignment. I'll take Malhatten any time.

I'll soon see you again.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Glamour Photography Session In My West Island Photo Studio

2011-09-14T06:11:00.000-07:00

Nancy's hair color caught my attention though some of her photos on Facebook. Caroline who is a make-up artist is our mutual friend on Facebook.

Nancy Deblois is a young hair dresser in her mid 20's. That unusual pink hair color of hers had to grace my camera.

She told me that she was photographed only once by another serious photographer. I was going to be a second in her "in front of the camera" experience. She had no experience, she is only 5'2".

Yesterday Nancy arrived to my photography studio in West Island. She was expected at 11am, she was there on time.

I did her make-up. She did style her hair. Then we started shooting. We went through 4 clothing changes. The entire session ended at 1pm. Yup two hours was enough to get at least what I had desired to create with her.

I will be sharing with you only few samples today. There are few other looks that I haven't edited yet.

I love discovering unusual subjects and create various different looks in such a short period of time. After all, I aim to make everyone look awesome. Not all my clients are young tall models. Women come in all sizes, shapes and colors.

Over 15 years of photography business and going through thousands of glamour make-over clients, creating different looks in such short period of studio time has brought me the nickname of "glamour make-over queen" which I proudly carry in my portfolio.

And here are two snap shots done with my cell phone Samsung Galaxy SII. Available light, as shot- un-edited, just re-sized. Not bad for cellphone photography. Both are reflection of Nancy shot through a mirror as she was getting ready.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

September 11 New York Remembers

2011-09-11T06:54:00.000-07:00

The year was 2001, September, the big day for me was going to be the 13th, It was a Thursday. I remember very well. It was the vernissage night of my photo exhibit “My Interior Monologues” and celebrate the opening of my Montreal photo studio in downtown.

Mike Boone from Montreal Gazette had booked an interview with me on September 11 to do a column about me and my studio. He wanted to be the first journalist to do such a write-up.

I woke up that morning, well refreshed and ready to conquer the world. I was on yahoo chat with Adrian, a friend from London, when Adrian the eternal pessimist declared “The world is ending Hera” I laughed at his comment like in the past. Adrian acted always in a depressed mode. He was a great writer. Then he told me ”Hera, no, I am serious, open your TV on CNN”. I did so, my computer has TV functions. Adrian was right this time. New York was being attacked right in front of our eyes. I actually witnessed live on TV the hit on the second tower.

I got a call from Mike Boone. His comments were: “Hera we have to postpone out meeting, the hell broke loose here at Gazette this morning”

My studio’s vernissage went on as planned September 13th 2001. Several of my American guests could not even fly to attend. The gala style event attracted some journalist. Surprisingly no one mentioned during the evening about the events that had recently shocked the world. As if everyone wanted to avoid the subject that night and get away from that nightmare.

Mike Boone eventually did a glorious article on my exhibit. September 19th where Osama Bin Laden’s face was still on the first page of Montreal Gazette, I was gloriously at the second page on the top. Mike wrote it in print that visiting my studio is what he needed after all what it had happened.

I had a second article the same week at Montreal Gazette’s Art’s and Books section front page by art critique Victor Swoboda talking about my exhibit and studio opening.

10 years later. New York remembers.

Ode to every hero who lost their life that day to save others. Time might heal the scars, but it will never be forgotten.

PS: To read and see details in the photos, you can click on them to enlarge.

Regards,

Hera Bell

Bees Are Busy

2011-09-09T15:05:00.000-07:00

I was gardening today. My Lumix GH2 came in handy to capture this shot. I am not a nature, or wild life photographer. I do not even have the heavy duty camera grear for it.

But having fun in the nature will never stop me.

Camera is just another tool. Creative vision can't be purchased no matter how much money you have to spend. You can get inspired by others, and emulate their vision, or copy their exact compositions. The buck will stop there.

From my garden with love to all of you. Enjoy your week-end.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

Love That Italian Fashion!

2011-09-08T06:29:00.001-07:00

Italians know how to design extravagant beautiful hats.

Model is Italian, the hat is Italian, everything else isn't.

I had great pleasure styling and doing this photo session with Elena this past summer.

The Camera was Lumix GH2. The photo was shot with a single Bowen strobe in studio.

Cheers,

Hera Bell

London Smokes

2011-09-06T07:08:00.000-07:00

During our London stay we have noticed a large percentage of women smokers.

I couldn't help photographing this scene. It was too good not to.

Cheers,

Hera Bell