Category Archives: Workshop News

PartnerCon 2011 – you coming?!

I am so excited to have been invited back to speak once again at PartnerCon!  This year’s conference hosted by Pictage is in San Diego and includes 3 days of speaker sessions, hands-on shooting workshops, leading exhibitor demonstrations, networking and so much fun!  I will be teaching alongside some of the best photographers in the industry and very cool people: Joe Buissink, Justine Ungaro, the Youngrens, Jared Bauman, and dozens more. Seriously, this event is a PHENOMENAL value, not to be missed and guaranteed to inspire, elevate and empower you!

Pictage PartnerCon 2011
November 7-9, 2011
The Hard Rock Hotel, San Diego, CA
Register Now! 

Here are the details for my talk – it may not seem sexy, but OH HELL YEAH it is! I’ve never revealed this info before and don’t plan to again, so DON’T MISS IT!

Anatomy of a Successful Portrait Business
Tuesday, Nov. 8th 1:30pm

Let’s kick it into high gear as I dissect my portrait business, put it under a microscope, and expose the critical choices I made when building my brand that earned me a six-figure income in less than two years after just getting started and has continued to grow each year. I will uncover my unique strategies that led to being booked solid, continually increasing sales, and creating higher profit margins. And more importantly, my definition of SUCCESSFUL goes waaaay beyond high revenue so we’ll also delve into the strategies that produce creative fulfillment, happy clients, and running a business with ease. So from top to bottom, we’ll take an intimate peek inside my business and identify the mind-set, the systems, the tools, and the business practices that keep me happy, in-demand, well-paid, and loving what I do. Let’s break it all down together and set you up for SUCCESS! 

Panel Discussion: Creating a Client-focused Business
Monday, Nov. 7th 3:15pm
Gary ChristensenKevin WeinsteinPhil ThorntonRachel LaCour NiesenJeff Youngren, Christa Meola
I am thrilled to be on this panel of very cool and varied pro’s who exemplify the client-focused mind-set. Here’s the description from the course guide:
“Photographers often hear that creating a great brand is all about selling yourself and being yourself. Sure, that’s part of branding, but this panel will challenge you to think beyond conventional wisdom! Explore what a truly client-focused business looks like and how these photographers’ business practices are different than what you’d expect. Come ready to ask questions, be challenged, and think outside the box!”

NEW! Boudoir Photography Sessions
Nov 7th-9th, Only 3 spots available!

Since I’ll be in the company of hundreds of gorgeous female photographers at this conference, let’s have some fun and do some sexy shooting for you! Obviously, this isn’t a part of PartnerCon registration, but I believe it’s an absolute MUST-DO for every woman! Give me a shout for all the juicy details 917.737.1009 or christa at christameola.com.

So REGISTER NOW for PartnerCon as seating is limited and will definitely sell out. And wait – there’s even more!…

An AWESOME DISCOUNT just for my loyal blog followers!
Make sure to use the code: ChristaMeola when you REGISTER NOW, and receive $50 OFF!
Hurry, the discount code expires soon! on 10/07/11.


This one is from PartnerCon 2010 in New Orleans. I know my hair is a mess, but the discussion was PHENOMENAL 🙂

See you in San Diego!

Christa

ps. Here’s the FULL SCHEDULE, and make sure to sign up for my talk! Can’t wait to meet you 🙂

pps. The pic at the top is of super cool photographers and my dear friends Lauren Hillary, Justine Ungaro, myself, and taken by our awesome soul sistah Sara France. Ok, it wasn’t taken at PartnerCon but at the LA SupperClub, but these are the types of awesome friendships that are made at ParnterCon and it totally captures the party atmosphere and camaraderie of the event! Come join us!

Nude Photo Workshop & Retreat in Italy!

All NEW! For Women Only!
NUDE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP & RETREAT
with Christa Meola

Florence, Italy | September 4th – 9th

I am SO FREAKING EXCITED to announce my ALL NEW ITALY WORKSHOP! I designed this event to be an empowering and sensual experience unlike any other! This is more of a RETREAT than a workshop. I can think of few things more fun than getting together a small group of super sexy soul sisters to enjoy a week-long all-inclusive female photo-fest in an Italian Villa. Space is very limited.

This is a unique event & one-of-a-kind learning opportunity! Sleep & eat in a beautiful historic 15th century villa with me as you complete a stunning portfolio, work with fashion models & nude figure models, create beautiful photographs, explore Italy, and eat up & drink in all that LA DOLCE VITA has to offer!

Be inspired by the art, history and beauty of Florence, as we explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Tuscan countryside and the villa’s expansive estate.

Each day will include shoots and focus on a different aspect of photographing women and building a successful business.

You will receive personal coaching from Christa while you shoot and be granted use of all images for your blog and portfolio. Christa will share in-depth info on how to work beautifully with natural light, the art of coaching & posing models, creating high-end sets & styling, creating amazing relationships with clients, pricing, post production, branding & more. Film and Digital photographers of all levels are welcome.

Room and board are included. You will be Christa’s guest at a beautiful historic private villa and enjoy authentic Italian meals and dinners on the town. Think divine combinations: Italian cheeses & antipasto, Butter & Sage Ravioli, pizza & wine, fruit & espresso, chocolate &… well chocolate!

Lastly, can you handle even more sensual awesomeness headed your way?!

As Christa’s gift to each woman…

ALL ATTENDEES will receive a MINI-BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION with Christa!

SOLD OUT

 

 

“Worth every penny. This is the workshop for those who want to stand out in the photography community.”
Allie Lindsey, Temecula, CA

“Best workshop I’ve ever taken!!!! Anyone who asks me I tell them it’s SO worth it! Sign up!”
Shani Barel

“It’s the 1st workshop I walked away from saying how wonderful it was & that it was worth every single penny.”
Stephanie Piscitelli, Bridgewater, MA

“Christa’s workshop blew me away!… an amazing experience!”
Rita Spevak, Chicago, IL

“I had my highest portrait sale ever of $4,700 thanks to Christa!”
Lisa Roah, Orange County, CA

“Best money I’ve ever spent on my business. Period. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”
Erin Nelson, San Francisco, CA

“I more than doubled my income! Attending Christa’s workshop changed my life.”
Robin Hultgren, Walnut Creek, CA

“EPIC!!!! I have a new outlook.”
Melissa Lin Huddlston-Smith, Moreno Valley, CA

“I have been on fire since the workshop! It kicked my creativity and inspiration into overdrive!”
Jill Amanda, Santa Barbara, CA

See CHRISTA’S PORTFOLIO, read the REVIEWS, check out THE VILLA, and SIGN-UP NOW!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FAQs, Freebies and 10 Spots Left!

Hello Boudoir Bad-Asses! Wanted to give you a quick heads-up that we have only TEN SEATS LEFT for the ONLINE BOUDOIR WORKSHOP, which starts tomorrow! I am THRILLED with all the wonderful people we’ve got signed-up from all over the world! We are well-represented: Newbies and pro’s, women and men, Canon and Nikon 🙂

I wanted to tell you about all the AWESOME FREE STUFF we’re giving away during the workshop!

This is what ALL attendees who sign-up are receiving:

Free 2-month membership to Pictage

My exclusively designed “Perfect Boudoir Sample Kit” from Pictage when you sign up for extended membership at 60% off, which includes:

+One hour free retouching services!

+Free album design!

+Free 10×10 20-page press-printed album!

+The supah sexy little black box of Ten 5×5 Art Prints

$50 Gift Card from Simply Color Lab!

30% off print & bind with Leathercraftsmen!

15% off all gear rentals from LensProToGo yo!

And here are some of the goodies we will be giving out through-out the course:

A copy of my book “EXPOSED: Redefining Boudoir” signed by me 🙂

Two $100 Gift Cards from Adorama!

$100 Gift Card from LensProToGo!

Super Mini-Album Sample Kit: set of 4 smoking hot accordion books from Simply Color Lab valued at $100+

And more being added every week!

And just to answer any last-minute Qs, here are the Top 3 FAQs about the ONLINE BOUDOIR WORKSHOP! beginning Tuesday June 14 – tomorrow!

1. I have something scheduled during a few dates this summer. Do I have to be available at certain times, and will I miss anything?
You won’t miss a thing! I built this boudoir workshop for busy bees like me, and so the content is available 24/7 baby! Plus all the juicy content will be online and available to you for 8 weeks! Plenty of time for you to watch/listen/learn at your convenience! How cool is that.

2. I have no experience. I’m a total newbie. Is this the right course for me?

Hell yeah!! Talk about perfect timing! This course will short cut your learning curve and get you started with smart habits and powerful tips in a super fun way that will set you up for success with my very simple, totally easy, and budget-friendly approach! Sign-up, and you will thank yourself!

3. I’m already a pro. Is this too basic for me?
Awesome! well let me ask you: are your sales where you want them to be right now? are you creatively juiced and completely inspired? do you want to spend less time in post? do you have raving fan clients that spread the word about you like wild fire? are you having FUN with your business? if you can’t answer a whole-hearted HELL YES! to any of these q’s, then sign up baby! We’re going to bring your creativity and success to the next level!

Once again, there are only 10 SPOTS LEFT! Grab your’s now!

Update: The Workshop is SOLD OUT.

“Best money I’ve ever spent on my business. Period. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”
Erin Nelson, San Francisco, CA

Get all the JUICY INFO, read the REVIEWS, watch the SEXY TRAILER and SIGN-UP NOW!

Sweet!

SOLD OUT

“Worth every penny. This is the workshop for those who want to stand out in the photography community.”
Allie Lindsey, Temecula, CA

Get all the JUICY INFO, read the REVIEWS, watch the SEXY TRAILER and SIGN-UP NOW!

Sneak Peek Trailer!

So freaking excited to show you this fun little sexy sneak peek at what’s in store for all of you signing up for the ONLINE BOUDOIR WORKSHOP!

 

SOLD OUT

Do you want to change your life, live your dream of photographing women, make more money, and have a fulfilling career empowering females? Then sign up!

“It’s the first workshop I walked away from saying how wonderful it was and how it was worth every single penny.” Stephanie Piscitelli, Bridgewater, MA

“EPIC!!!! I have a new outlook.” Melissa Lin Huddlston-Smith, Moreno Valley, CA

“Worth every penny. This is the workshop for those who want to stand out in the photography community.” Allie Lindsey, Temecula, CA

“Christa’s workshop just blew me away!… an amazing experience!” Rita Spevak, Chicago, IL

“Had the most amazing time & learned so much my head is still spinning.” Allison Smoley, Temecula, CA


..and more COOL RESOURCES for you:
Yesterday’s Live Q+A Call yesterday was such a freakin’ blast!! I didn’t expect the huge turnout and demand (silly me), so I’ll definitely do another one soon! Thanks so much to the hundreds of  people that tuned in and submitted 80+ questions! If you’d like to receive a recording of the Q&A call & get early notification of the next one, make sure you’re on my mailing list (you can submit your email in the field to the right, plus you get my awesome Pro Photographer Manifesto for free 🙂

Lots of love & nudity,

x. Christa

 

Last chance!

WIN A FREE SEAT to my Online Boudoir Workshop!

You have til 12midnight EST tonight…

Winner will be announced on tomorrow, Monday June 6th 9am EST.

Good Luck!

x. Christa

ps. Spots are booking up fast, and we are now over three quarters filled up!! If you’ve already registered (smart move!) and win, then your fee will be refunded 🙂 So Register Now before we are sold out!

Online Boudoir Workshop! Begins June 14th

Yay, it’s here! I am thrilled to announce the brand-spanking new & totally sexy Online Boudoir Workshop! This 6 week course is for photographers who want to learn all of the exciting aspects of the booming boudoir market, from home! Join us in your pj’s and enjoy video demonstrations, behind the scenes shoots, tutorials, personal interaction, a private forum, and much more!  Gain support, motivation, inspiration and answers to all of your questions, as I expose everything inside my boudoir business that makes it a success – as well as the biggest mistakes new boudoir photographers make and how to avoid them!

YOU’RE INVITED TO ENJOY:

Video demonstrations & Tutorials
Behind the Scenes access to Christa’s shoots
Live Q&A calls each week
Portfolio Critiques
Private Forum for members only
Free Resources & Vendor Discounts
Client forms, contracts and releases
and more!…

HOW IT WORKS

This is a 6 week course, beginning Tuesday June 14th. On each Tuesday, I release that week’s content: videos, tutorials, notes and projects 🙂 Anytime during that week (or even weeks after), you can view all or pieces of it at your leisure. Each Thursday or Friday (alternating) we’ll have 3-hour live calls scheduled for Q&A’s and discussion on that week’s content. The call will be taped and available for you to download at anytime should you miss one 🙂 One of my favorite benefits of this workshop is the members only forum  – a place of ongoing support, information and motivation. Members will be able to leave comments under each content area, so everyone is sharing their thoughts, ideas, tips and questions all in one place – so we’re all in this party together, all the information is available to you 24/7, and I’m right by your side as your personal coach!

 

TOPICS COVERED

Shooting On Location & In the Studio
Go behind the scenes of Christa’s shoots. See how Christa styles her sets and works with minimal equipment both on location and in the studio. Watch how she relaxes a nervous client, brings out the best in each woman (from models to moms), creates sensual moments, captures emotion from even the stiffest client, and finds flattering poses for every body type.

Equipment & Lighting
What’s necessary and what’s not – this surprises most new photographers! Learn easy lighting set-ups, how to work with the challenge and beauty of natural light, working with studio strobes, and the ease of video lights. See the results of using different lenses at all budget levels.

Branding and Style
How to create a distinctive brand that brings you into your business. Creating a consistent look that separates you from the crowd.

Creating Raving Fan Clients
How to attract clients and turn each woman into a raving fan who does your marketing for you. This is how I create boudoir addicts who hire me again and again and tell all their friends.

Best-selling Boudoir Money Shots
Learn how Christa coaches and captures each of her best-selling Money Shots™. These are the shots that every client wants and are absolute must-haves for your portfolio!

Post Production & Workflow
Cut down on your editing time with a workflow that is easy, fast and effective. See Christa take her pics from straight out of camera through Lightroom and Photoshop to final edited images presented to client.

Giving Direction & “Posing”
Learn how to coach actions, give easy direction and create beautiful moments instead of “poses.” See the difference between what’s hot & what’s not – a subtle but huge difference!

Flattering every Figure
Easy ways to flatter women of every shape and body type. Top ways to work with women, from models to moms, breast cancer survivors to body conscious clients.

Fine Art Nudes & Fashion
Working with nude models, see how Christa blends Fine Art Nudes and Fashion with Portraiture to create her high-end Boudoir “look.” Learn the qualities that distinguish each style and how to bring them into your work.

Sets & Styling
How to style a set and a model to create editorial style photographs. Creating an amazing high-end look on a budget both in studio and on location.

Pricing and Increasing Sales
Nailing your price list so you’re busy, happy and well-paid. How to increase sales

Successful Boudoir Parties
Christa’s step-by-step process that gives you all you need to throw a successful (or your first!) boudoir party!

Plus Permits, Releases, Contracts, FAQ’s and more!

If you’re new to this blog, you can read Reviews on Christa’s workshops, see more of Christa’s Boudoir photography and check out her Fine Art Nudes.

Boudoir Photography is about empowering women – helping them feel amazing and celebrating who they are. So get in on the fun now! The boudoir photography market is currently enjoying a huge surge in popularity as more and more women are seeking this service. Boudoir photography is such a fun and fulfilling career, and I want you to be a success!

***SOLD OUT***

***CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED***

Winner is BETHANY GROVE!
Yay!!! Congratulations Bethany! I’ll email you with all the juicy details!

Here are a few ways to WIN A FREE SEAT!
Do one or all of the following, then leave a comment for each thing you do, which is important because your comments are your entries!
1. Enter your email here:

2. Follow me on twitter and tweet this: So excited for the ONLINE Boudoir Photography Workshop! with @christameola WIN a FREE SEAT here! http://bit.ly/iglLEo
3. Like Christa Meola Pictures on Facebook, then tell all your photographer friends about this giveaway.

The contest ends on Sunday June 5th, midnight EST. Winner will be chosen using random.org and announced on June 6th 9am EST. If you’ve already registered (smart move!) and win, then your fee will be refunded 🙂 Cool! So register now before the price goes up!

Good luck! and I can’t wait to see you online at the workshop!!

x. Christa

Attending Christa’s workshop changed my life.  I more than doubled my income! – Robin Hultgren
My first shoot was a total success!!!  My client was thrilled, and I was relaxed and confident. – Sally LeDrew
I had my highest portrait sale ever of $4,700 thanks to Christa! – Lisa Roah
Best money I’ve ever spent on my business. Period. I’d do it again in a heartbeat. – Erin Nelson
I have been on fire since the workshop! It kicked my creativity and inspiration into overdrive! – Jill Amanda
Best workshop I’ve ever taken!!!!!! Anyone who asks me I tell them it’s SO worth it! Sign up! – Shani Barel

 

Lush Messy & Sexy, Exciting News!

Spring is HERE! and I’m so jumping up and down happy for all the exciting things happening. Some cool news for you:

1. The brand-spanking new & sexy christameola.com will be launching this Monday, April 25th! wooohooo! not only did it receive a sleek redesign but also lots of awesome new features for you. Here are just a few…

The Pro Photographer Manifesto, 10 Habits of Successful Pro’s – is a free download for pro’s to remind us to keep our game on the pro level and for those just starting out to encourage wise habits from the beginning.
New Resources section – you asked and now you will be provided with all of my favorite vendors and resources, including links to the workflow process I use and where I get all my goods.
New Q&A section – with answers to all of your burning questions – there are over 30 FAQ’s – if you’d like to ensure that your Q is on this list, then please leave it in the comments below and I’ll include it.

2. Announcing the 1st ever Very Sexy Boudoir Workshop ONLINE with Christa Meola… it’s a 6 week course, I mean 6 week party, that starts June 14th! This is for all of you who can’t make it the in person workshops, who asked for me to visit your town, who want to play from home in your pj’s, who want tons of personal interaction with me, who want 6 weeks of awesome content, video demo’s, assignments and feedback – all for an affordable price. More juicy details and registration opening next week!

3. Lots of Give-aways! All of my favorite things from Italy! well not ALL of my favorite things, lol 🙂  There will be a leather bag, lingerie, the COOLEST boudoir mask ever, red wine, olive oil, of course lots of chocolate, limoncello, your choice of a fine art italia print signed by me, etc… it’s going to be epic, seriously.

Pretty cool right. So come on back soon – now that I’m back in Firenze from 2 weeks of road trippin around southern italy, I’ve got tons of gorgeousness on the blog in store for you…

ps. remember to leave your question or just plain ol’ love in the comments now! thank you!

baci,

x. Christa

A Very Sexy Boudoir Workshop

I’m coming back to LA for a One-Day Boudoir Intensive on February 27th! I am taking a quick break from living la dolce vita in Italy for a few jobs I couldn’t resist in Los Angeles, so I thought I’d throw a workshop into the mix for the people who’ve been emailing me with requests (thank you!). This kick ass workshop will be held at a luxury hotel in Los Angeles and is limited to a very small group so you get plenty of one-on-one instruction and hands on learning.  You will be on your feet shooting alongside me during model sessions, will get personal coaching while you shoot, and will be granted use of the images for your blog and portfolio. We will have a mix of pro models and real girl-next-door clients. Since I LOVE blending fine art nudes with fashion & boudoir portraiture, please expect partial nudity. The main focus of this boudoir workshop is to build a totally kick-ass smoking hot portfolio!

Here are a few favorite shots taken at the Last LA Boudoir Workshop… this was a demo of finding the best natural light as well as how to style a shoot…

christa_meola-boudoir_photography_workshops_004

christa_meola-boudoir_photography_workshops_005

Miss L is one of my favorite models to work with! She is incredible and has worked with many amazing photographers, including one of my favs Annie Liebovitz. I love what a chameleon L is – she looks very Blade Runner here no?

christa_meola-boudoir_photography_workshops_000

Yes, we have film shooters 🙂  Also, there is no paparazzi-style shooting at my workshops – only one person at a time is the lead director of a shoot – the other photographers can shoot from the periphery if they are so inclined, but do not interfere with the main shooter 🙂 I make sure of that!

christa_meola-boudoir_photography_workshops_003

christa_meola-boudoir_photography_workshops_002

A Very Sexy Boudoir Workshop!
with Christa Meola

Sunday February 27th 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
SOLD OUT!

A One-Day Boudoir Intensive
Focused on building a smoking hot portfolio,
standing out from the crowd, creating a high-end look,
and answering all your burning questions about going pro!

Topics covered:

Live Boudoir Shoots and Model Releases!
Live Boudoir shoots will be on location at a luxury hotel. Christa will do a demo, working with three different models. You will each get plenty of one-on-one time with the models and full model releases to use your images.

Side-by-Side Personal Coaching & Posing
Christa will be by your side, available for personal coaching, while you shoot.  Learn on your feet how to relax a nervous client, bring out the best in each girl, create sensual moments, push yourself creatively, and find flattering “poses” for every body type.

Lighting & Equipment
What’s necessary and what’s not.  Learn three different lighting set-ups: how to work with the challenge and beauty of natural light, working with studio strobes, and the ease of video lights. There will be a variety of Christa’s favorite lenses for you to borrow so you can see which ones you love the most!

Top 10 Boudoir Money Shots™
Christa will make sure you capture these all-time Bestsellers for your portfolio. These are the pics every client wants and will hire you for!

Sexy Post Production
A Workflow that’s easy, fast and effective. My Top Tips in Lightroom and Photoshop which create smoking images!

Creating a High-End Look
How to stand out from the crowd with a distinct look, and how to develop a high-end signature style on a budget.

Sets & Styling
How to style a set and a model to create pictures that look like they should be in a magazine. This is key!

Pricing & FAQ’s
Nailing your price list so you’re busy, happy and well-paid. Let’s get all your most frequently asked questions answered about permits, contracts, releases and other business practices.

A few Raves about Christa’s Workshops:

“Best money I’ve ever spent on my business. Period. I’d do the workshop again in a heartbeat.”
Erin N.

“The workshop was so AMAZING!!! I would recommend it to anyone starting out or looking for a fresh approach to their photos! It was worth every penny and I can’t believe how much I got out of it.
Heidi W.

“Best workshop I’ve ever taken!!!!!! I learned more about the art and business of portrait photography in two days than I did in four years of college (and it cost much less 🙂 sign up!”
Shani B.

“Totally inspiring and empowering. Thank you for being so open with everything that has made you a success and passing that on to us!”
Robin H.

“You are effing awesome. I learned so much watching you interact with your subjects and how you gave them really good direction. Also, learning the way you handle your pricing was gold to me. The whole workshop was a knockout.”
Francesco B.

“I have taken a few workshops and this one by far was my favorite. You have juiced up my creative level and showed me how to apply my style to my work and so much more! I feel like when I got to a photo shoot now, I have an action plan, instead of clicking away. Thank you!”
Tammy C.

“I highly recommend this workshop! Unlike other workshops I’ve taken, Christa actually gives you time to DO what she’s teaching – and I loved her attitude throughout the weekend. She truly wants to help other photographers shoot better and be more successful as business people. It wasn’t a “look at how fabulous I am” workshop, it was a “look how fabulous YOU can be” workshop!! Thanks Christa!!!”
Christine H.

“THANK YOU SO MUCH!! I HAD AN AMAZING TIME! I got so much out of the workshop but I think the best thing was confidence, and the fact someone really cared enough to show other artists how to get paid for what they do! You have changed the way I look at myself, by showing how I too can be successful. Thanks Again!”
Shannon J.

“You and your workshop were awesome. I really loved learning the psychology behind what you shoot, show, sell, etc. You gave every attendee individual attention, and your personality, enthusiasm and energy kept us all going and inspired. I had a blast.”
Marc J.

Workshop Fee: $900
SOLD OUT!
To Register: call 310.909.8957 or email christa (at) christameola.com.

****UPDATED TO ADD: this workshop sold out quickly.
Please check the updated schedule at the top of this page for current availability in upcoming workshops!

 

Looking forward to shooting with you! and if you’d like to see other pics shot at this workshop, take a peek at these “Me-Oooow!” pics.

xoxo, Christa

ps. Space is extremely limited, so register now! If you’re new to my blog, feel free to look around – you’ll find plenty of my boudoir photos, fine art nudes, and tips for photographers.

Last LA Workshop

I’m so excited to announce this last Los Angeles Workshop, a One-Day Boudoir Intensive on December 4th! I’m so grateful for all of the wonderful photographers who have been visiting my blog, sharing their thoughts and questions via the comments, and emailing me with their success stories!  There has been a huge surge in requests recently for my one-on-one mentor days and another LA workshop! So I am adding this one-day workshop focused on your top needs.  The workshop will be held at a luxury hotel in LA and is limited to a very small group so you get plenty of one-on-one instruction and hands on learning.  The best part is that you will be on your feet shooting alongside me during model sessions, will get personal coaching while you shoot, and will be granted use of the images for your blog and portfolio. The main focus of this last workshop is to build a complete and kick-ass portfolio, so let’s do it together!

The Last Los Angeles Workshop!
with Christa Meola

Saturday December 4th 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

A One-Day Boudoir Intensive

Focused on building a smoking hot portfolio,
answering all your burning questions about going pro,
and empowering you to get started!

If you’re new to Christa’s blog, you can see Christa’s Boudoir pics here and read her tips for photographers.
and scroll down for more info…

Topics covered:

Live Boudoir Shoots
Live Boudoir shoots will be on location at a luxury hotel. Christa will do a demo, working with three different models. You will each get plenty of one-on-one time with the models and full model releases to use your images.

Side-by-Side Personal Coaching
Christa will be by your side, available for personal coaching, while you shoot.  Learn on your feet how to relax a nervous client, bring out the best in each girl, create sensual moments, push yourself creatively, and raise the bar for your photography.

Lighting & Equipment
What’s necessary and what’s not.  How to work with the challenge and beauty of natural light, working with studio strobes, and my new favorite lighting set-up!

Top 10 Boudoir Money Shots™
Christa will make sure you capture these all-time Bestsellers for your portfolio. These are the pics every client wants and will hire you for!

Sexy Post Production
A Workflow that’s easy, fast and effective. My Top Tips in Lightroom and Photoshop which create smoking images!

Sets & Styling
How to style a set and a model to create pictures that look like they should be in a magazine. This is key!

Pricing & FAQ’s
Nailing your price list so you’re busy, happy and well-paid. Let’s get all your most frequently asked questions answered about permits, contracts, releases and other business practices.

 

A few Raves about Christa’s Workshops:

“Best money I’ve ever spent on my business. Period. I’d do the workshop again in a heartbeat.”
Erin N.

“The workshop was so AMAZING!!! I would recommend it to anyone starting out or looking for a fresh approach to their photos! It was worth every penny and I can’t believe how much I got out of it.
Heidi W.

“Best workshop I’ve ever taken!!!!!! I learned more about the art and business of portrait photography in two days than I did in four years of college (and it cost much less 🙂 sign up!”
Shani B.

“Totally inspiring and empowering. Thank you for being so open with everything that has made you a success and passing that on to us!”
Robin H.

“You are effing awesome. I learned so much watching you interact with your subjects and how you gave them really good direction. Also, learning the way you handle your pricing was gold to me. The whole workshop was a knockout.”
Francesco B.

“I have taken a few workshops and this one by far was my favorite. You have juiced up my creative level and showed me how to apply my style to my work and so much more! I feel like when I got to a photo shoot now, I have an action plan, instead of clicking away. Thank you!”
Tammy C.

“I highly recommend this workshop! Unlike other workshops I’ve taken, Christa actually gives you time to DO what she’s teaching – and I loved her attitude throughout the weekend. She truly wants to help other photographers shoot better and be more successful as business people. It wasn’t a “look at how fabulous I am” workshop, it was a “look how fabulous YOU can be” workshop!! Thanks Christa!!!”
Christine H.

“THANK YOU SO MUCH!! I HAD AN AMAZING TIME! I got so much out of the workshop but I think the best thing was confidence, and the fact someone really cared enough to show other artists how to get paid for what they do! You have changed the way I look at myself, by showing how I too can be successful. Thanks Again!”
Shannon J.

“You and your workshop were awesome. I really loved learning the psychology behind what you shoot, show, sell, etc. You gave every attendee individual attention, and your personality, enthusiasm and energy kept us all going and inspired. I had a blast.”
Marc J.

Workshop Fee: $900
To register, call 310.383.6494 or email christa (at) christameola.com.

 

Space is extremely limited, so register now, and I’m looking forward to meeting you!
To register, call 310.383.6494 or email christa (at) christameola.com.

xo, Christa
ps. If you’re new to my blog, feel free to look around a bit – you’ll find plenty of my boudoir pics and tips for photographers.  Check it out and remember to leave a comment or question!

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PartnerCon, N’awlins baby!

Awesome Announcement… I am jumping for joy to have been invited to speak, shoot, and teach at PartnerCon 2010 in New Orleans!  This conference hosted by Pictage includes 3 days of speaker sessions, hands-on shooting workshops, leading exhibitor demonstrations, networking, and tons more.  Seriously, this event is a phenomenal value and guaranteed to inspire, elevate and empower you!  I am beyond excited to be teaching alongside some of the best photographers in the industry and very cool people: Joe Buissink, Mike Colon, Carlos Baez, Sara France, and dozens more.  Registration is open! so Register Now as seating is limited to 500 and will sell out.  Plus, it’s in New Orleans baby – I mean c’mon!

Redefining Boudoir: a Fushion of Fashion, Fine Art & Portraiture
Wednesday, Nov. 10th 3:15pm

Let’s get inside the current market explosion in Boudoir Photography and what women are secretly seeking from a boudoir photographer. Learn how to bring a high end look to your pictures by combining a fashion and fine art sensibility with portraiture and creating a signature look that’s in demand and sets you apart. I’ll show you how to win over clients and create raving fans as well as how to work with women and get the best out of each client on a shoot. I’ll also reveal the top ways to increase sales which is all about exceeding expectations, creating emotion in your work and providing a once in a lifetime experience for your clients. Open to all registered participants.

Shooting Workshop: How to Capture the Top 10 Boudoir Money Shots™
Thursday, Nov 11th 8:00am

The title says it all here.  This workshop is hands on (just like I like it) and will be a mixture of demo and one-on-one coaching! I’m passionate about what I do as well as inspiring others and empowering them to do the same. I have a simple approach that translates to photographers at every level, so please join me 🙂 Open to only 15 participants – registration for this shooting workshop has not been opened yet.  Check back on my blog for updates – I will announce when Registration for this event officially opens.

NEW! Mini Boudoir Photography Sessions
Thursday, Nov 11th 11:00am – 5:00pm

When I travel, I find myself being asked by the female photogs in the crowd for mini boudoir sessions!  Well, I definitely rise to demand, so I will make time for a few sexy fashion/fine-art boudoir shoots!  I’m so excited for this – and we don’t have to stay in the hotel – I’d like to take it to the streets!  Give me a buzz 310.909.8957 for more details and to book your shoot.

Thank you truly for all the emails, questions and comments – I love hearing from you!  Hope to see you in New Orleans and please drop me a note at christa (at) christameola.com and say hello if you’d like more information on workshops and/or boudoir shoots 😉

Hope to see you in New Orleans!

Christa

Wildcat, Nude Workshop with Weston and Meola

Left to Right: Photos by Ed Weston, Kim Weston, Christa Meola

I thought the experience on my birthday last year couldn’t be topped! Last August, I had the gift of photographing nudes with Kim Weston at Wildcat, the Weston family estate.  The Weston family’s contributions to fine art photography has been a longtime inspiration for me and has fueled my passion for art, photography, story-telling and the female figure.  So the entire weekend was deeply meaningful to me, and I blogged the pictures in Nudes No. 1, Nudes No. 2, Nudes No. 3, Nudes No. 4, and Nudes No. 5.  The spark ignited that weekend has grown as I continue to enjoy photographing nudes – my latest are posted here, the Viceroy Nudes.

But here’s the crazy exciting news… on August 27th, 28th, and 29th, Kim Weston and I will be co-leading a Nude Photography Workshop together!  At Wildcat.  My mission is to expose portrait photographers to the Weston legacy, fine art photography, and photographing the nude female form… as well as having a hell of a good time!  I’m telling you the Weston’s know how to host a workshop!  Photographing nudes all weekend on the Weston estate, steeped in history and tradition is a unique opportunity for any photographer.  Plus the fireside chats are not to be missed!  Needless to say, I’m so excited for this event and seats are going fast.  Limited to 12 photographers.  Register by contacting christa@christameola.com.

Details for Wildcat Nude:

 

Tradition at Wildcat
This special Wildcat Nude offers a unique opportunity for students to explore nude photography
alongside Kim Weston and Christa Meola. Participate in a weekend-long discussion about
shooting for both the fine art market and private commissions while learning about the
Weston family’s historic contributions to fine art photography.

Two Photographers, Two Approaches
Kim Weston and Christa Meola.

Two Full Evenings of Discussion
Meet and greet on Friday evening at Wildcat Hill will include an introduction to Christa and Kim’s
work and the Weston legacy.  On Saturday, guests will enjoy a family-style dinner in the Weston
home and a fireside discussion of photography as well as a Q&A.

Two Full Days Photographing Models
Participants will get the opportunity to photograph the nude figure for 2 consecutive days. This
allows plenty of time to get comfortable working with the figure models and gives you the
opportunity to photograph what you might have missed on the first day.

Topics Covered
Telling a story with your photographs
Working with models
Composition
Lighting
Showcasing your work
Getting started in the business
And more…

Models
We will have 4 models present and the class size is kept small, so we have an excellent model
to student ratio. Working in this way we have a maximum of time, space and privacy. If time
permits one-on-one time with models may be arranged.

Locations & Lighting
We will be shooting in multiple locations on the premises. The Weston estate offers
several areas indoors and outdoors, including Kim’s private studio.
All set-ups will be natural light.

What to bring
Participants are encouraged to bring a portfolio of their work for viewing. 5 to 7 finished prints
that have been matted and or presented for easy viewing. Laptop – For those participants
that are interested we like to view the work from Saturday on Sunday morning so please bring
a thumb drive along for easy transfer.

All Levels Welcome
This workshop is open to all levels of experience and any size camera, film or digital is great
for this workshop. Students should bring their own film and equipment and know how to
operate their cameras.

Workshop Fee
$695 per person
Lodging not included.

To Register
Contact christa@christameola.com or call 310.383.6494
Space is limited to 12 students.

Hope to see you there!

Christa 🙂