Lorelei Bryan
We sat down with Women to Women Network member Lorelei Bryan, of Gentle Touch Portraits, and here's what she had to say…
Who are your clients/customers?
My clients are primarily women, often grandmas and moms, who value recording their loved ones at every age and stage. They also desire more than documentary; they desire art that expresses the value they place on family.
I have a special place in my heart for children and teenagers after raising six of our own children and now enjoying 15 grandchildren. I understand that as adults, it can be hard to get in front of the camera. I wish I had more photos of my mother and me together, so I encourage parents to be photographed with their children—for their children’s sake. It will be so precious in the years to come.
I also specialize in business headshots for entrepreneurs,and professionals of all kinds.These self-motivated individuals know the importance of projecting the best version of themselves online and in print .
How do you help your clients/customers?
We all have memories, but photographs cement them. I'm sure we've all had experiences where we don't remember a day well, but because we've seen a picture over and over, we're able to relive it. Photographs tell a story and help future generations get to know you. I provide the very best portrayal possible. I accentuate the eyes and even out skin tones with artistic retouching. Each image is digitally hand brushed to give it a painterly look. I can also put my clients in any environment after the fact so that your portraits match your decor or tell a story.
I'm very relaxed in the way that I photograph. I like people to feel comfortable and to look natural. I guide gently. In the end, the expression is everything.
What brought you to this line of work?
Over 30 years ago, I started on this journey. We were living overseas, and people at home wanted to know about our experiences. I tried to take photos and realized the pictures weren't doing it justice. When I went back to the States, I visited my local camera store to get a tutor. That led to a mentorship that spanned years. Every time we'd come back from overseas, I'd work with my tutor, and later, I interned with her until I created my own business.
What brings you joy?
Seeing a mom look at her child's images and cry with happiness. Knowing that joy will last a lifetime is priceless. I aim to give more than a digital file that will sit on a computer. I value physical products that can be enjoyed every day, so I always give my clients prints.
What defines you and your business?
Respect and care. If a client is uncomfortable, I feel that it's my job to put them at ease. The goal is to get an image that reflects their true personality. If my subject is reserved and shy, I appreciate who they are and don’t push them to “smile big”. If a child is energetic, I engage them with an activity and photograph them in motion.
I also honor people's budgets. I am sure to show my clients all of the possibilities to make the best choice for themselves.
What's the most important thing you want people to know about you and your business?
A photographer is available with the empathy and skill to give them something above what they usually see in photography. I’m just a call away.