Portrait M AG A Z I N E
Beautiful, authentic portraits for families and children MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
2
2 017 E D I T I O N
Portrait M AG A Z I N E
[06]
[14]
[18]
20 Y E AR S F R O M N OW: G E T T I N G PERSPECTIVE O N YO U R FAM I LY PHOTOS
A MOTHER & DA U G H T E R SPEND SOME Q UAL I T Y T I M E TOGETHER
3
A M AK E OV E R FO R M AG G I E: SENIOR P O R T R AI T S W I T H STYLE
[24]
P R O F E S S I O N AL & POLISHED: “ H E AD S H O T S ” W I T H H E AR T
[26]
YO U C AN ’ T H AN G A F L A S H D R I V E: T H E B E S T WAY S TO CHERISH YO U R P H O T O S
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
4
Photo of Michelle Kirkland © David Wittig.
2 017 E D I T I O N
The Artist M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D
Michelle Kirkland creates artistic images that reflect your natural beauty. At once ethereal, honest, and personal, the images she creates are known for their artistry, emotional substance and insightfulness. Michelle takes images that celebrate relationships and expressions. Her subjects are shown “as beautiful as they really are.� Her influences include Gordon Parks, Annie Liebovitz, Richard Avedon, and Henri Cartier-Bresson. Based in Plano, Texas, Michelle Kirkland specializes in environmental, journalistic portraiture. Michelle uses her time and talent exclusively for portraits of families, children, individuals, and high school seniors.
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
5
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
20 Years from Now
Timeless. Beautiful. Classic.
6
My senior year of high school, we had to do a project that involved family photos. I went into the boxes and pulled out my favorite images documenting my life so far, and I realized quickly that there were virtually no photos of my father. Though he was a computer engineer by trade, Dad was an avid photographer, and the first person to put a camera in my hands. But he always avoided having his photo taken. After my school project was finished, I got myself a little camera and decided I’d follow him around and take pictures. After a while, he got used to it and I think he started to enjoy it. Sadly, three years after my high school graduation, my father was killed instantly in a car accident. As time went on, the value of those photos became more and more
apparent. Most of the photos I have of him were taken in those last three years, and it makes me happy to see that I captured him being his regular, slightly goofy self. I didn’t know yet that I would become a photographer myself, but all these years later, I can see that the things I learned since the loss of my father have given me an unfortunately clear understanding of the important things, and this understanding shows itself in my own work. As a photographer, I am drawn to a very classic, fine art style, and I avoid trends. My goal is always to focus on the things that make you who you are: your personality, your demeanor, your expression; your love for your family; your happiness in the present moment.
I take your portraits as if you’re looking at them far into the future, and trust me: in 20 years when you are remembering how small your children were, or in 50 years when your family looks back on these photos, your hair & makeup won’t matter nearly as much as all the “important stuff.” I don’t know why my father avoided the camera — self consciousness? Shyness? Worried about presenting the right image? I wish I could ask him. But if I could, what I’d tell him is the same thing I tell all those in front of my camera: you are perfect just the way you are, today, and your family thinks so, too. □
2 017 E D I T I O N
7
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
8
2 017 E D I T I O N
A multigenerational family photo session, like this one, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
9
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
10
AL L FAM I L I E S AR E W E L C O M E Families come in all types and sizes, and they’re all worthy of a beautiful portrait! Single parents, couples with or without children (pets are welcome!), LGBTQ families - we all deserve to walk through our homes and see ourselves beautifully represented.
All relationships are worth commemorating. You could even schedule a portrait session with your siblings or best friend; with your adult children, or have a once-in-a-lifetime multi-generational family portrait (previous page). â–Ą
2 017 E D I T I O N
11
AT L E F T : A FAM I LY/ N E W B O R N S E S S I O N. AB OV E: A C O U P L E C E L E B R AT E S T I M E TOGETHER.
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
12
“During the photo shoots, my concerns were put to rest with Michelle’s flexibility and talent. She was very patient, personable, and knowledgeable, allowing us to be comfortable and ourselves. “Despite the challenges, she captured real moments that our family will cherish for a lifetime.” - JOY, MATERNITY & NEWBORN
2 017 E D I T I O N
13
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
Mother & Daughter In a twist on the traditional maternity & family photo session, Reina and her daughter Maren decided to spend some quality time together before the birth of Reina’s new little one. This lovely maternity session included beautiful dresses, flower crowns, and stunning early fall light. What more could a little girl want? For another look, ethereal white dresses lend an all-natural atmosphere to highlight the emotional connection these two share (next page).
14
Consider spending some quality time with your son or daughter before welcoming your new little one - it’s such a special time for a family, and it’s such a great moment for your child as she starts to recognize her new role as an older sibling. My favorite image is the one on the next page: I love Maren’s look into the camera, and I wonder what she will think of this image when she is all grown up and thinking about having her own children. □
BEAUTIFUL LATEAFTERNOON LIGHT AND A PERFECT HALLWAY OF TREES MAKE FOR A SWOON-WORTHY MOTHER AND DAUGHTER PHOTO SESSION.
2 017 E D I T I O N
15
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
16
2 017 E D I T I O N
17
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
A Makeover for Maggie senior portraits with style
18
What young lady doesn’t want a makeover for her senior portraits? Maggie, who wears a “California casual” look every day, wanted to get a little dressed up for her senior portraits. With some jewelry and fashion styling and a professional makeup artist, we were able to provide Maggie with a beautiful new look to celebrate her senior year. Maggie’s portraits show off her vibrant personality and expressions. From quiet and introspective to flirtatious to laughing and cracking jokes, it’s all there! Since Maggie was actually a college senior, in addition to the more glamorous looks, we added a professional look and included some images she could use for her website or resumé. Maggie got a great internship and is now attending graduate school at Harvard! see more of maggie’s amazing day in the next few pages, and Call Michelle to schedule your senior session today!
T O P : Ma ggie e nj oys the bre e ze . B O T T O M : Ma ggie be fore a n d a fte r.
2 017 E D I T I O N
19
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
20
“Sometimes photo shoots can feel like a chore, especially for people who aren’t comfortable around cameras. Michelle’s photo shoots, however, and totally different. It’s fun and relaxing! “It felt almost like a spa day-- it was a chance to focus on myself, my inner and outer beauty, and my presence. I really enjoyed it!” - MAGGIE, senior portraits
2 017 E D I T I O N
21
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
22
M AG G I E.
M AG G I E’ S B E A U T I F U L M AK E U P, BY T R AC Y M E LT O N O F T R AC Y M E LT O N AR T I S T RY.
Behind the Scenes See more of Maggie’s amazing senior portrait session by visiting www.michellekirklandphotography.com/portraits/ behind-the-scenes-video/ or by pointing your phone to the QR code at right:
2 017 E D I T I O N
23
M I C H E L L E AN D M AG G I E. P H O T O O F M I C H E L L E BY DAV I D K I R K L AN D.
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
Professional and Polished A professional portrait doesn’t have to be boring or conventional. Also known as a “headshot,” an excellent professional portrait is essential for anyone launching a new venture. Brenda, a hard working geologist, university professor and mother of three, wanted a new look to celebrate the completion of her new children’s book. Brenda was initially very nervous about having her portrait made. She generally shies away from makeup, cameras, and anything “super glamorous.” But Brenda’s natural beauty 24
shines through. With some very light makeup, soft lighting, and just a few curls in her hair, we were able to highlight Brenda’s loving and warm personality. Brenda’s three children include one in college and one with special needs. Brenda is also a volunteer in her church and community. When you give so much to others, it’s great to take some time for yourself and show off your natural beauty. While Brenda’s new portraits are for professional use, the essence of who she is is visible to all. Brenda says, “In the scientific research I do, photos are documentation of evidence. It’s easier to feel better about yourself when you have documented evidence that you look good.” □
“ N O R M AL LY, I H AT E T O H AV E M Y P I C T U R E TAK E N, B U T I G E N U I N E LY H AD A G O O D T I M E.”
2 017 E D I T I O N
25
B R E N DA R E L A X E S B E FO R E H E R P O R T R AI T S E S S I O N.
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
26
2 017 E D I T I O N
You Can’t Hang a Flash Drive enjoy your family portraits throughout your home.
Let’s face it - you’re probably never going to print that flash drive of photos, those images languishing on your hard drive, or the day-to-day images hiding in your iPhone. This time, you can relax and know that it’s all taken care of when you purchase your wall art from Michelle Kirkland Photography. Studies show that having family portraits on display can even help with a child’s self-esteem, by reinforcing their place in the family. 27
HEIRLOOM PRODUCTS Every product we offer is of the highest quality, and meant to last a lifetime, whether it’s a canvas, framed art, or one of our keepsake boxes or albums. MANY CHOICES TO SUIT YOUR HOME No matter what type of portrait: family, maternity, newborn, or professional, there’s a way to help you keep your photos close. Choose from stunning albums, silk-covered keepsake boxes, or even pre-planned wall galleries. Standard installation of wall art is included. Following your photo session, you’ll experience a personalized ordering session, where Michelle will help you choose the images for your home. The average investment in these heirlooms will range from $1,000 to $5,000. Whether they are custom framed wall art pieces, a beautiful folio box featuring your favorite images from the session, or a stunning, handcrafted album, these images will bring a smile to your face each and every time you see them, and will be a source of joy to your family for generations to come. □
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
MICHELLE KIRKLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
Thank You S TAY C O N N E C T E D.
Each and every time you walk through your home, you’ll be reminded of those most important to you with beautiful wall portraits by Michelle Kirkland. Contact me today to schedule your portrait session. I can’t wait to meet you! 28
FAC E B O O K. C O M / M K I R K L AN D P H O T O
I N S TAG R AM. C O M / M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O
P I N T E R E S T. C O M / M K I R K L AN D P H O T O
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M 972.768.6457 | Plano, Texas
All images in this publication, unless otherwise noted, are copyrighted to Michelle Kirkland.
2 017 E D I T I O N
29
W W W. M I C H E L L E K I R K L AN D P H O T O G R AP H Y. C O M
| 9 7 2. 76 8 . 6 457
Portrait M AG A Z I N E
Beautiful, authentic portraits for families and children MICH ELLE K I RK LA N D PHOTOG RA PHY