2 minute read
Portraits of Excellence
World-renowned photographer Tony Valadez shares tips for taking the perfect portrait.
WORDS BY CHARLENE VOIGHT
THE ART OF EXCELLENCE IN PHOTOGRAPHY IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND WORLD RENOWNED ARTIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER TONY VALADEZ AND HIS SIGNATURE LIGHTING TECHNIQUES. Having started as an assistant to one of the industries top fashion photographers in 1996. Tony went on to be the lead photographer for various national publications, constantly evolving his lighting strategy.
Throughout this time he has had the privilege of photographing in some of the most beautiful places in the world such as Nevis, Paris, Barcelona to photographing for such brands as Chanel, Guerlain, Estée Lauder, Bentley, Cartier and many more. Tony has had the honor of photographing some of today’s high visibility profiles from Tom Ford, Hillary Clinton, Don Lemon and many others. “When asked who would be one of my most memorable celebrities I have had the honor of photographing,” the photographer says, “It’s Patti LaBelle hands down.”
Another question he often gets asked is how someone can prepare for their best portrait. Here’s what Valadez shared:
• HAVE THE RIGHT ATTITUDE. Go into the session with a positive attitude as it will reflect in your imagery.
• PREPARE STYLISH LOOKS IN ADVANCE. Clothing should be preselected, preferably with a consultant or stylist. Stay away from busy patterns and styles that can get dated. At the minimum, always bring a clean long sleeve white collar button down shirt.
• GET SOME SLEEP. Get plenty of rest 2-3 days prior to your portrait session.
• STAY HYDRATED. Avoid alcohol consumption. Instead, drink plenty of water.
With these tips, you’ll be ready to make your next portrait perfect, just like the WOCIP founders’ portraits that he shot for this issue.
Learn more about his work at tonyvaladez.com.
