BEHIND THE LENS

Q&A With Fine-Art Portrait Photographer

LuAnn Warner-Prokos

SoFLo: How did you learn about the Women Over 40 project?

WP: I participated in the project as a subject. I was getting older, gained some weight and do not photograph well. I carry all my weight in my face and upper body. (Those with bigger hips and stomach can still look slender in a photo.) Whenever I see a photo of myself, I always think it doesn’t look like me. I wanted to see what a professional would do for me – and I was blown away. I bought 25 images. It really was a fabulous day – the hair and makeup, champagne, music and studio setting.

SoFLo: What did you learn from the experience?

WP: I learned that I am beautiful. I learned that it is possible for someone to get a great photo of me. I saw I can feel beautiful and be comfortable in my own skin. I felt special. I needed to see myself through someone else’s eyes.

SoFLo: As a photographer what do you like about working in a studio?

WP: In the studio I can control the lighting which is critical. I am also able to have several different backdrops. I offer the women a beautiful collection of gowns, dresses and accessories to use for their portraits. I like having a safe intimate space to photograph people who are often feeling vulnerable.

SoFLo: What are you known for as a portrait photographer?

WP: I am known for my editing and the bespoke experience I offer to my clients. I edit the images, so the woman looks like she has had the best facial, a great night’s sleep and a lot of water. It is easier to edit when you have the correct lighting and pose. The fact is the lighting takes care of most of it. But I do use a technique where I liquefy—shade—the images. The truth is I know the photo tricks to that enhance someone’s beauty.

SoFLo: Why do you think the women who participate in the project enjoy it so much?

WP: After doing a few of these portrait sessions, I realized how important it is for them to have this experience. Women are so hard on themselves. We aren’t kind to ourselves. I know I beat myself up all the time. I think of myself as invisible. But like most women, I am beautiful. When the women first see the images and see that I didn’t change them but brought out their essence and beauty, they often say that they look the same but beautiful. We all have an idea of ourselves – positive or negative. But through this experience the women begin to rewrite the stories they tell themselves and begin to be much kinder about who they are and what they look like.

SoFLo: Why do you like doing this project so much?

WP: I feel I am giving back. When the women come to the studio for the pre-shoot consult and we talk about their lives and experiences. I want them to see how they are strong, sensual, dynamic and exude a beauty all their own. Perception is reality and through this experience I am trying to erase a little of their history to view their lives and themselves a little differently. I work to help these women see their beauty – or at least appreciate it.