Are You Ready for Your Closeup? Actor's Headshots

I came home after an unusually long day at work to a blinking light on my answering machine. (Yes, I still have an answering machine as a kind of communication security blanket.) It was my agent. She spoke some of the most frightening words an actor can hear:

I think it's time for new headshots.

She couldn't be serious. It seemed like I'd just gotten new shots last year-- or was it two or three years ago? And my photos still looked at me, right?

When I met with my agent the next week, she assured me that my shots did look like me, but that in this day and age of abundant digital submissions, I needed to update my photos to remain fresh. She explained that those casting would stop seeing a shot that they've been seeing for months-it's just human nature. She then went on to say that she's recommending that her clients update their photos at least once a year to remain competitive. She had a point. I called my photographer that day.

Many professional actors, like myself stress over headshots, one of the most important marketing tools for actors. An ideal headshot is a true representation of the performer. While it goes without saying, your headshot should look like you look, today. Thanks to technology, the industry standard has shifted to color photographs that capture skin tone and present a more accurate image of the actor. But your actor's headshot should also capture your personality--something happening beyond the eyes, so to speak.

Like so many young eager actors, my first headshots were a disaster. I was going to audition for summer stock theater for the first time and needed a headshot. I had no idea how to go about obtaining one. During spring break, I returned to my home in the Midwest and went to a photographer my parents knew. He took  photographs,((head, neck and shoulders) of me in a Danskin leotard. These were perfect examples of what not to do. The photographs were stiff, overly posed and looked like a senior yearbook photo. Ironically my own senior photos were casual candid  shots and reflective my truer self. If the glamor shot places in malls existed then, I may have gone there and produced another set of unusable headshots. These shots, while glamorous, don't reflect the subject as they truly are. How many of us are constantly overly made up and air-bushed to unreal perfection?

I did a second session with another photographer less than a year later, also back in my Midwestern hometown. This photographer was an artist who dabbled in photography. I described what I needed, and he delivered several shots, some of which were usable. However, I failed to get them reproduced properly, getting really good Xerox copies. Miraculously, one of these shots led to one of my first acting jobs in Chicago.



A new actor in Chicago

Once in Chicago, I had my first professional headshot session. The husband and wife photography team encouraged me to consider the types of jobs that I would be auditioning for (high school & college students, fast food counter girls, entry level office workers), which I admit was something I'd never thought about. The shots done that day accurately reflected me as a young woman in her late teens and early twenties.

To be honest, I hated my first real headshot so much that I got rid of all of them years ago. It was cute, wholesome and so not me.  Like any other twenty-something I was still trying to figure out who I was as an actor, and as a person. (My mother loved the shot, saying that I looked just like singer Leslie Uggams.) But funny thing, that young looking picture got me into several auditions that resulted in several bookings. I played teens into my thirties.

Throughout this post I've included a few of my favorite commercial headshots that trace my career from a twenty-two year old novice in Chicago through the present in Los Angeles. I recently shared these photos with my current agent. She made an interesting comment:

You look the same. What changes is your confidence level as you've grown as a performer.

 I've done several headshot sessions, (in Chicago and LA) and have shot with many photographers. I've shot with people who were at the time the new hot photographer in town,  photographers who've been referred by actors whose headshots I liked and new photographers just starting out. It doesn't matter, just since the final result is a true reflection of you.

I'd like to share a few things to keep in mind regarding actors headshots.

-Never shoot with a photographer whose work you've never seen. You want to see the caliber of work before you commit to a session. This can be easily done online or in person. The perk of meeting someone face to face is that you're able to gauge your comfort level with this person.

-Do take photographer recommendations from actors you know and trust.

-Never be forced into using a photographer. (I've heard horror stories of less reputable agents and managers getting kickbacks from photographers.

The first shot I felt truly
reflected me

-The amount of money you pay has nothing to do with the finished product.

-The new hot photographer in town may not be the right photographer for you. I once shot with the new hot person in Chicago who intimidated me so much I cold hardly relax. Much later I shot with the new hot person in LA. Beautiful work and the most money I've ever paid for headshots. The problem was that you could easily spot this woman's work. It seemed that the photographer had become more important than the performer in the headshot.

-Do you want to hire a makeup artist? This is primarily for women. If you feel comfortable and confident doing your own makeup, do it yourself. In this digital age you can always see how you look before your session begins. I also let the photographer advise me to whether or not I should touch up or alter my makeup as the shoot progresses. I started doing my own makeup years ago when I was about to go into a shoot and was undecided about whether or not to have my makeup done professionally. I was told that the client before me was using a makeup artist they worked with regularly and could stay for me if I desired. As it turned out, the actor before had my coloring. Her makeup was nice, but I knew I could do a better myself. I've done my own makeup ever since. Doing my own makeup is one of my relaxation rituals before a headshot session.

More relaxed in Los Angeles

-If possible, talk to your agent or manager before you shoot. Make sure your goals for your headshot sessions are the same. Make sure you know how your agent sees and is marketing you. Ask if there are any current trends you should embrace or avoid (career specific wardrobe, for example) I always ask which categories and age ranges my agent is submitting me for most. If you don't yet have representation, talk to an acting coach, or an actor who knows you and whose opinion you trust.

-Have a good idea of how the industry sees you. This is something that will change over time. (If at this point in your career, you're an ingénue, don't be photographed as a vixen.)

-When you arrive at your session, leave your worries at the door, have fun and relax!

-Be proactive during your session. If an outfit or line of direction isn't working for you, say something.

-Keep reproductions to a minimum. Thankfully, actors don't need as many photo reproductions as we used to since most castings are done through online submissions.

This 3/4 shot would never work today.

-Have a headshot that pops: Most casting directors are looking online at smaller versions of your headshot online. Make sure your headshot pops with color and a strong attitude. Remember, you're sharing the screen with several other actors. A picture that doesn't pop won't be as easily noticed. A vibrant color and good attitude will help your shot get noticed.

-Keep your headshots updated: I always tried to reshoot every other year. Because technology has increased the number of submissions to those in casting, some industry insiders are recommending that actors change their shots at least once a year to remain fresh and viable.

-Hopefully you'll have many shots to choose from. Get opinions from those closest to you, and your representation. But remember, let the final decision be yours. With that in mind...


My last black & white headshot

-DO NOT BE OVERCRITICAL OF YOUR OWN SHOTS!



From a recent session with Robert Kazandjian
www.kazphoto.com

Several years ago, I was looking at a friend's new headshots. I've known this actor for years, and these were not only his best shots, but these were some of the best headshots I'd ever seen. I made a note to myself that I'd ask for a referral the next time I needed shots, and promptly forgot. When I was asking my agent about photographers, she recommended Robert--who turned out to be the same man who'd done the great shots of my friend the year before. Recently, I did my third headshot session with Robert Kazandjian (http://www.kazphoto.com/). Until Robert, I'd never returned to a photographer. I love Robert's work, he's easy to work with, and I always have too many choices, which is a very good thing.

A few years ago, I did do a session with another photographer from Chicago who was visiting Los Angeles. Beka is one of my oldest friends. She is a multi-talented artist who I met while singing piano bar in the early days of my career. I'd seen several examples of her headshot photography on her website and genuinely liked her worked. I was curious to see how someone who knew me so well would capture me.

 

Beka arrived in Los Angeles less than two weeks after I lost my father. I almost considered cancelling our shoot because of my emotional state. We shot late one Saturday morning, outdoors on and around Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood. The shots were amazing. She captured a part of me that had always eluded the camera. She put it this way:

These shots show a woman that has been through something.

Beka The Pic-Chick Chicago, IL
https://www.facebook.com/PhotosByBeka/?ref=hl

My favorite Beka shot is my current author's photo that I'm using for my Romantic Series, Fall Again. (Incidentally, I showed this shot to Robert Kazandjian last fall during our last headshot session. He loved Beka's shot.)

I recently found this short film of an experiment done in Australia by The Lab. In Decoy, six photographers shot a single subject. Each was told something different about who the subject was before their sessions. The final photos are amazing and surprisingly different as they created photographs based on their own perceptions. As an actor, I found Decoy interesting and telling. It reminded me that different people, and not only photographers, will see you in entirely different ways.



I was a having coffee with an actor friend of mine recently. She pulled up a headshot on her phone and asked for my opinion. I liked the shot because it captured her physically and emotionally. It captured an inner essence that is often missing in headshots. Both the composition and lighting were beautiful.  She laughed. "My husband took this on his phone a few weeks ago. I liked the picture and showed it to my agent who insisted we put it on my online profile. I just had some of these reproduced. Can you believe it? A headshot taken on a phone!"

Is this the way of the future? I don't know. In the meantime, I'm keeping Robert's number on speed dial.

A Note to New Authors

 

                                                         May 28, 2015 Late Afternoon

I'd been nervously sitting at my laptop for what seemed like hours contemplating an action that could potentially be life changing. Finally, I  began to feel foolish and decided I couldn’t postpone the inevitable. I took a deep breath, and clicked. And just like that, I published my first novel.

In retrospect, this was a fairly anticlimactic moment as things in my life pretty much remained the same. And now I was no longer simply a writer. I was the one person sales & marketing team for my novel as I entered a new world full of uncertainties, contradictions and every once in a while, victories. And I’ve learned to celebrate even the smallest victories.

I'm currently in the process of revising my third novel, California Girl, in my series, Fall Again. I’ve had time to reflect on lessons learned from my first two novels and am looking forward to my next book’s publication with confidence and excitement-- instead of trepidation.

 Since I'm a fairly new author myself, I’d like to pass on a few things I've learned to new authors.

Mentors Rock. I was grateful to have two published authors, (one in my genre), as mentors who led me through the publishing process and held my hand when necessary. These people had been where I was and understood everything I was going through artistically, emotionally and technically. 

Have a marketing plan. Do your research and have a plan. There are so many aspects of publishing (traditional & self -publishing) that are beyond your control. Having a good marketing plan will help you maintain some amount of control and sanity. There is a plethora of free information online. (The Create Space Community & -marketingforromancewriters.org- a Yahoo group, as well as other authors have been invaluable resources.

What works for one author won’t necessarily work for another. Marketing is a tricky endeavor, and nothing is guaranteed. I've often described marketing as a Rubik's Cube--a puzzle with many solutions. Find the one(s) that work for you.

Imagine my surprise when I learned
 YouTube star GloZell
read and enjoyed my book.

Don’t expect your closest friends and family to review or even read your book. This was a hard one for me since I just assumed that those who had cheered me on during the writing process would be my first readers. Once I published, some of these people never mentioned my book again! Don’t ruin relationships. Do remember to thank those who read, and especially those who post reviews.

Remember, you have a life beyond your book. Don’t forget your spouse, children and pets. Remember to eat right, exercise and sleep. In short, take care of yourself. You and those around you will be happier!

Enjoy the ride! Publishing a book is a major accomplishment that many only dream and talk about…but you actually did it! Congrats.

Danni: my loyal office manager

As I wrote Fall Again, I never thought about publishing, marketing or sales. My primary goal was to create a story and characters that people would enjoy.

Three weeks after I published Fall Again: Beginnings, I received a note via my website:

I have fallen in love with the characters in this novel and anxiously waiting for Lost Boy. Any idea when it might be released? Absolutely beautiful novel!!

 I couldn’t have been happier!

Congratulations...and don’t forget to enjoy the ride!



The Fall Again Series




 

 

 

 
 
 

My Actor's Journey Home to New York-- with Special Guest Star Maurice White

A note to new and young actors and other artists: always have a plan. Then expect that plan to change.

 Again, I was sitting in front of my laptop staring  at another obituary. We'd lost another amazing artist. This time, Maurice White, the founder and lead singer of the iconic group, Earth Wind and Fire. The man had a smooth soulful voice that was part of the soundtrack of my life. Upbeat optimistic songs like Fantasy, Shining Star and September always made me happy, and on occasion sent me running to the dance floor. This music would live forever!

But Maurice White's passing struck a personal cord. Thinking of him  brought up memories of my first professional acting jobs and my unorthodox journey to New York City. This will make sense later.

I booked my first acting job when I was a junior at Emerson College in Boston, MA. I had desperately wanted to attend college in New York City, but my parents wouldn't even consider the thought. The idea of me ever being in New York was terrifying to them. But once I had my degree in hand, I'd move to New York with its hustle and bustle, art,  history and culture. Most importantly, the center of the American Theater was in New York. I planned to make my living on the stage and could never imagine calling any place else home.

At Emerson, I was cast as Vera (the ingénue) in A Month in the Country. A casting director from WGBH (Public Television) was looking for young-looking actors to portray high school students in a new television series, The New Voice. The show centered around the staff of a high school newspaper, The Voice. (The Christian Science Monitor called it Lou Grant with teenagers.)

Several of us were brought in to audition.  A few months, later I was booked on the show. I was  shaking as I took the call from casting on the pay phone in my dormitory hallway. I was told what to bring, given a call time, and told  I'd be paid $25 for the day. Casting also gave me a brief description of my character; "You're a mean spirited student who makes an insensitive remark about another student."

I remember arriving at the WGBH Studio on the morning of my shoot. I arrived early; a habit I've maintained to this day. My makeup was applied professionally for the first time and wardrobe put me in a wrap around denim skirt and green button down shirt. I remember being escorted to the set and trying not to be overwhelmed by the flurry of activity, crew, lights and camera.

 My scene took place in the school's hallway. The situation involved the arrival of a new Native American student.  I was to come around the corner, see him, and deliver the line, "Where's John Wayne when you need him." I was to laugh sarcastically as I exited downstage. I was directed to keep it real. I tried to forget that my grandfather was Native American , and channeled my inner "bitch."
Two takes later it was over. The stage manager thanked me and told me I'd done a good job. I hated to leave.

Later in my dorm room, I sat on my bed holding my check from WGBH. In a surreal moment realized I was now a professional actor. The next year, after graduation, I'd be moving to New York where I'd have more days like this one.

I held on to my day on set by keeping my makeup on until I went to bed. I fell asleep reliving every moment on set that day, and imagined my life in New York City.

But a funny thing happened on my way to New York. I ended up in Chicago.

A few months before graduation I started to make plans. While I was still  focused on getting to New York, to remain proactive, I mailed out my first (awful ) headshots and resumes to 20 theaters in different parts of the country- I remember The Arena Stage in Washington, DC and ACT in San Francisco received packets. I laugh at my naiveté. Had I'd known that in reality a cold mailing was virtually useless, I would have saved the postage.

Meanwhile in Boston, I had a good audition an callback for the Boston Shakespeare Company. I prayed for a phone call  offering me a position by the end of the week when the final decisions were made.  If I was in Boston, at least I'd only be a few hours away from New York.

Friday night, I was devastated, having not received a phone call.

But Monday afternoon, a theater in Chicago called me on the dorm pay phone. They had received one of my packets-- and wanted to talk to me about the possibility of me coming to Chicago. Long story short, a week later I was in Chicago beginning my first day of rehearsal at The Free Street Theater. I was hired as an Actor's Equity Apprentice for $150/week.

A few nights later, I received a call from a dorm mate in Boston. "Boston Shakespeare is trying to get in touch with you. They want to offer you a contract for their touring company!"  I hung up the phone and cried.

I was in Chicago and employed as an actor in a professional theater company. I decided that I was in Chicago for a reason, and I stayed for three and a half years. I made the best of my time.  By the time I left, I had several theater, commercial and industrial credits. I supplemented my actor's  income by singing piano bar and by sometimes doing commercial modeling.

I was further away from New York than I wanted to be, but honestly, NYC was still only a plane ride away.

A commercial modeling gig in Chicago

Chicago is a wonderful place for an actor to begin a career and learn the business of the business. A few years later when I was again plotting my move to New York , I 'd joined SAG, AFTRA and was eligible to join AEA. Professional credits and  being a union member would make me a viable performer in NYC.

But then, a weird thing happened. A friend of a friend was visiting from Los Angeles. I was told this man was in the industry. I remember smiling politely because I'd learned that many people outside of the industry only think they know someone in the industry. He gave me his card and I thought nothing of it...until he called me a month later. Apparently, he had a friend casting a new television series, and there was a role that might be right for me. He asked if it would be possible for me to be in LA in three weeks. This sounded too good to be true.

I was young, but I'd developed some business savvy. I asked if I could look at my calendar and call him back the next morning. In reality I wanted to do some research. In this pre-internet age, I called  a reference librarian at the Chicago Public Library and gave her the information on the business card. This man turned out to be a legitimate talent manager who represented named talent. His father helped to establish The William Morris Agency in Los Angeles.

I'd never been west of the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport. I'd never thought about Los Angeles let alone living in los Angeles. But in a huge leap of faith, I left Chicago three weeks later, for good.  I felt I couldn't pass on this opportunity. New York, while now an even longer plane ride away, would always be there.

When I left Chicago it was seventeen degrees. When I arrived in LA, it was sunny and seventy-five degrees.

 I didn't book the role that initially brought me to LA. But remember, an actor is always auditioning for the future. The casting director I first met also cast a soap opera, and asked if I'd be interested. (She would put me to work the next year. My first scene was with Genie Francis on Days of Our Lives.)

I  loved the laid back atmosphere in Los Angeles. The city is large, but I soon discovered areas and neighborhoods that I enjoyed. I loved the weather, views and the fact that I could find absolutely anything and everything.

The professional opportunities seemed endless. My LA contact was helping me find representation. But in the meantime, I was invited to his office everyday to look through the breakdowns. His office would make submissions on my behalf.

A few weeks after arriving in Los Angeles, I had my first LA audition on a street called Melrose Place. I don't remember too much after I learned this was an audition for a music video for Maurice White of Earth Wind and Fire. He was doing a solo project and had recorded a cover of Ben King's Stand By Me. Two days later I booked my first LA job.

The next week, I arrived at the makeup trailer for the Stand By Me music video. I was part of the street ensemble. They wanted me to look very young, so they applied a lot of pink blusher, lipstick and teased my hair. Wardrobe put me in a white mini skirt and go go boots that were a half size too small, but I didn't care.

I remember Maurice White on the set. He was friendly, down to earth and said hello to everyone, myself included. It all seemed so normal. At 2:00 AM, I was dancing to playback on the streets of Hollywood below the iconic Hollywood sign--and everything seemed right. I was happy, content and performing. A serene feeling came over me as I realized I was never going to be a New Yorker. I was already home in Los Angeles.



Maurice White. Stand By Me.1985 by capitainfunkk

While I'd always planned to be a New Yorker, circumstances continually moved me west until I found my way home to California. Five years after my arrival in Los Angeles, I met my husband. I've continued to work as an actor, and recently began writing.

A few years ago, as I began writing what would eventually turn into Fall Again, (a four-part contemporary romance series), one of my goals was to create a realistic look at the lives of working actors and other artists. My characters are grounded hard working professionals, each with his or her own path.  It's not autobiographical, though some events were inspired by incidents in my life, or the lives of fellow performers. The most recent novel Fall Again: Lost Boy deals with  the life of a New York actor who becomes disillusioned with New York. This is the story of his search for professional and personal fulfillment. This is in addition to a primary romantic storyline.

Those of us in the creative and performing arts are often misunderstood by the general population who can't understand that we can make a real living in an artistic or creative field. During one of my most successful years in the industry, my father asked me I got paid for appearing on TV shows and commercials.

As a newcomer to Hollywood in the Stand By Me Video

Today

The Stand by Me music video was shot in Hollywood on Cherokee
between Hollywood Boulevard and Selma Avenue, blocks away from where I'm currently living. When I heard about Maurice White's passing, I took a walk over to the location of the Stand By Me video and where I began my career in Los Angeles.  I suppose in an indirect way, Maurice White had something to do with that. If he had not recorded the song, there would not have been a video which marked the beginning of my professional life in this city that I've come to love and call home.

While I've highlighted several of my successes, remember, like any creative, I've had good years, not so good years and extremely challenging years. I've had periods of self doubt, have had family issues about my career choices, and have seen the industry and rules change for working class actors like myself. Thankfully I've always been able to reinvent myself when necessary, have clung to a strong work ethic, (an artistic career is hard work), and have never lost my passion.

I looked at the building where the Stand By Me video began. I said a silent goodbye to a man, who has been part of the soundtrack of my life, and in a way, unknowingly helped me find my way home.

In Rememberance of an Artist: Writer Steve Robinson

It had been a tough week for many of us with the passing of two exceptional artists: David Bowie and Alan Rickman, both who made notable impacts on our culture. But the untimely passing of another artist from within my own circle left me shocked, stunned and without words. It's been just over a week now, and have once again found my voice. I'd like to share a few memories of another exceptional artist: a talented writer and very dear friend, Steve Robinson.

Steve was a tremendous writer, storyteller and performer: a true artist. I first met him several years ago when my husband and I found our way to Story Salon when I was looking for a venue to try out  material for a future solo show.

Among that night's performers was Steve Robinson. He impressed me with his words, brutal honesty and engaging storytelling.

Later, as I got to know him, I learned that I was familiar with some of his work. Since 1981 he had watched TV professionally when he worked for TV Guide writing listings, Close-ups and criticisms for TV GUIDE Magazine/Online. But I soon learned that Steve was an amazing writer who, over the years, would share stories of Hollywood, women and nighttime drives along deserted two-lane highways.

Many of Steve's stories can be found in his book, Why Stevie Can't Date, a collection of autobiographical short stories.

In his own words, Why Stevie Can't Date grew from my participation in Story Salon, L.A.'s longest running storytelling venue. I like to say it's about a couple of cars; a couple of girlfriends; a couple of wives; a couple of hookers; and a couple of days in jail. But not necessarily all together.

Jay Leno said, "Steve's life is a lot like Hugh Hefner's, but without the money, the women or the mansion. Most guys lie about sex. Steve doesn't. He makes the same mistakes we all make, but he tells you about them. A funny look at growing up on the fringes of show business."

Steve had an incredible sense of humor and the most wonderful laugh. He must have inherited this gift from his father, 50's radio host, Henry Morgan.

After a Story Salon performance

Steve always supported his friends and fellow artists. Not long ago, I began to produce fiction nights at Story Salon. I was the newest producer at the salon, and unsure of  how receptive our Salon members would be to something different. (Our storytellers tell true first person narratives.) I wanted strong writers for this first show, and Steve was the first person who came to mind. However, I was hesitant to ask him.

By now, Steve had moved to Laughlin, Nevada, almost three hundred miles away. He made the four and a half hour drive to Los Angeles every four to six weeks to attend and perform at Story Salon. He'd drive directly to the Salon, then immediately afterwards, drive back to Nevada. I often feared for his safety driving alone so late at night, and once asked him about the long drive. I knew he'd often steer clear of the interstates to travel the forgotten desert roads that many times were only lit by stars. His reply, "Donna, I love it!"

I did ask him to participate in the first fiction night and at first, he hesitated. "I'm flattered, but I've never written fiction."

This surprised me, but I also had a feeling. "But I believe you can! If you write something, I'd love to have you on the show."

And he accepted. The drive and distance was never an issue. The important thing was that he was supporting a friend. As a result, he pushed himself in a new direction. His story that night was incredible. I dropped him a line to tell him.

 

Donna:

Hi Steve. Thanks again for coming to LA  last night. Your piece was weird, wonderful and more than a little creepy...in a good way. Thanks for going there! I'm so glad that you allowed yourself to stretch by venturing into the realm of fiction. By asking you to participate I may have opened the (fiction) door for you, but you walked...or ran through that door on your own power, and the end result was excellent. It was in you all along! Take care. Donna

He responded the next morning.

Steve:

Donna, thank you so much for opening that door and for these most kind words about the result. A wonderful, exhilarating experience! See you soon. Steve


He would return to Los Angeles a few more times to read more of his original fiction. I was always grateful.

Steve's performed his last story at the Salon on November 4, 2015. I was not there. I was under a self- imposed deadline of November 13 for the publication of my second novel Fall Again: Lost Boy. In a rare move, I'd stayed home to work. When I learned that Steve,( a supporter of my writing and my series, Fall Again), had been in town I was disappointed that I'd missed him. I looked forward to seeing him later.

 

Unfortunately, later sometimes becomes never.

A heart attack took Steve from us on January 13. He was 63.

Steve was a kind, generous and creative man. He was respected, well-liked and much loved. He touched many lives and will truly be missed.

My words truly do nothing to describe Steve. To know him is to experience him through his own words. Here's his last story performed at the Salon on November 4, 2015.

There are many gifted and talented people working in the artistic and performing arts. Most of these artists will never achieve fame or notoriety, though neither of these thing are measures of talent or ability. Most tragically, the general population will never have the privilege of experiencing their work, artistry...or magic. During a week when we lost two artists named David and Alan, we lost at least one more. His name was Steve.

As I remember Steve, I find it strange that I don't visualize him where I saw him most--onstage telling one of his stories. Instead, I see him behind the wheel of his car. He's driving down an infinite two-lane highway. Above him are the moon and stars of a brilliant nighttime desert sky.

Goodnight Steve.
Safe journey.
 

Why Stevie Can't Date

Story Salon

Fall Again: Lost Boy

My Husband is Seeing Another Woman: A Matter of Style

Claudia Wells with Tony Figueroa

I'm enjoying a rare morning home alone. There's a cup of tea at my side, a cat at my feet as a Chopin piano concerto plays in the background. I'm catching up on my recreational reading (Maria McKenzie's new mystery, From Cad to Cadaver). All is right in my world-that is until I receive a text from my husband, Tony. I open the message to find a photo-and I know immediately. He's with her!

I study the photograph and can't help smiling. There's no denying that Tony looks great in the well worn leather jacket, something that he probably wouldn't have gravitated to until fairly recently, when she came into his life. From his expression, I can see that he's also loving the jacket. It seems to be bringing out different part of his personality-that I'm liking a lot!

 She's good. Really good!

I set my mystery aside and respond to the text.
Love the jacket! Tell Claudia hi.

Sure, I'm perfectly fine with this. You see Claudia, is Claudia Wells: a woman with an incredible sense of style, and the owner of Armani Wells; a high end men's resale shop located in Studio City, CA. Here customers can find high fashion men's apparel at below retail value. Her prices are fantastic! But for many men, like my husband, Claudia will forever be known as Jennifer Parker, Marty McFly's present day girlfriend in the film, Back to the Future.

Tony has been visiting Jennifer- or Claudia, at Armani Wells on a semi-regular basis for about a year now. The first time he visited her store, he came in only to purchase a "Save the Clock Tower" Tee shirt that he hoped she would autograph. But once in her store, she began to select items from her inventory for him to try. A few hours later he returned home with a newfound sense of style and some very nice clothes.


When I first met Tony, most of his wardrobe consisted mostly of tee shirts-most obtained for free during assorted promotional giveaways. There were a many, many logos. I often told Tony he looked like a walking billboard. I'd like to take at least partial credit for improving his wardrobe when we were dating. I considered it a small victory when he started to purchase and wear plain tee shirts. I was flattered when he asked me to go shopping with him he first time to purchase some new basics. He wanted to update and elevate his wardrobe. I'd bragged about my shopping expertise, so he was going to put me to the test. I guess I did okay, because a year later he married me.

I consider myself an athletic class shopper, always in search of the ultimate bargain. (I recently purchased a brand new unworn pair of Brazilian boots-leather upper/leather sole for $4 at a church thrift store.) I rarely pay full price for anything. My shopping has taken me beyond the mall to small boutiques, estate sales, thrift stores, and vintage and resale shops. I love searching for unique pieces wherever I can find them.

For me shopping is a recreational activity-something that my husband, and many other men, just can't understand. Maybe Tony didn't hate shopping, but I'm pretty sure he considered it a necessary evil and shopped for clothes as little as possible. Over the years I've assisted him in building a current versatile wardrobe. But since his first visit to Armani Wells, Tony has developed an excellent sense of personal style. And I can understand why. Claudia's store is well-organized, easy to browse and the selection  high end of items is excellent.

But the best part of Armani Wells is Claudia and her equally stylish and knowledgeable associate, Sissi. These ladies know their customers and inventory. I've seen them in action as they pull specific items for their customers which most of the time (at least in Tony's case) have been perfect for their physiques and lifestyles. This makes for a pleasant and stress free shopping experience. Claudia and Sissi are no less than amazing, not to mention friendly and personable.

But I'm sure that many guys make their way to Armani Wells to meet Marty McFly's
girlfriend, Jennifer Parker.

Tony and I recently had lunch with Caseen Gaines, author of We Don't Need Roads: The Making of the Back to the Future Trilogy. I asked him why he thought there was an allure surrounding Jennifer Parker. He told me that Jennifer was smart, pretty, personable and supported her man. In other words, Jennifer Parker is the ideal girlfriend.

I'm sure many of Claudia's customers come in to hopefully meet Jennifer, but I'm also sure that once they enter the store and meet Claudia, they're won over by the fashion. And guys, this is a very good thing-when you look good, we look good!



Tony visits Armani Wells whenever he's in the neighborhood. He was there last week to pick up the current Jennifer Parker tee shirt.  He took a look at Claudia's new offerings and sent me photos via texts. Yes, he still wants my opinion, but I know he's in good hands. Claudia (and I) assisted him in his choices. A short time later he left the store with some beautiful shirts and a great leather jacket.

So Claudia, Sissi-many thanks! Thank for helping Tony improve and find his personal style. He looks amazing!

Yesterday, after seeing a few photos of Tony on social media, a friend commented that Tony is always dressed so well, and asked if I picked out his clothes. I responded:
    
     Lately, I've been letting two other women dress him-Claudia Wells and her associate Sissi @ Armani Wells. Now if I could only find a way to get George Clooney to dress me.

You see guys, we have our own ideas about an ideal boyfriend. But then, that's a topic for another post.

Thanks for dropping by!

Visit the Armani Wells site @ www.armaniwells.com

And do check out We Don't Need Roads: The Making of the Back to the Future Trilogy

And Maria Makenzie's smart & funny mystery, From Cad to Cadaver

 

A few thoughts on David Bowie

It's been less than twenty-four hours since I learned of the death of David Bowie. I learned of this last night as I was checking email for the last time before going to sleep. The post, via Deadline Hollywood, had appeared in my inbox less than a minute before: David Bowie Dies: Rock & Cultural Icon Was 69.

Like so many others, I was shocked and for a few moments couldn't speak.  I quickly showed the headline to my husband who asked, "Is this appearing anywhere else?"

That's when multiple posts from many other sources started to appear. I went to sleep sad in the knowledge that this world had lost another phenomenal talent.

But when I awoke this morning, I was still feeling profound sadness-and for the life of me couldn't explain why. I was never a huge fan of David Bowie and had never purchased any of his music, but his passing had affected me.

I first heard David Bowie's music on AM radio as a kid growing up in the Midwest. I remember thinking that his voice had a unique quality while his  melodies stood apart from the majority of the sound alike pop music of the seventies. His sound was different than anything I'd ever heard.

He came to my hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio to perform in concert. I was much too young to attend, but heard about this concert through a family friend, Geri Sowell.

Geri was different than any of my parents friends. She was an artist and very active in the cultural scene. She seemed to be at every gallery opening, and attended live performances of just about anything coming into town. While my parents would never attend a huge concert, hating crowds and dismissing the music as noise, Geri had attended the David Bowie concert and told us about it the next morning over brunch. I can sill see her siting in our solarium in a long gauzy Indian dress, huge turquoise earrings and sporting a new shag haircut. She'd experienced something incredible.

"The venue was packed! There were tons of lights around the arena and over the stage, so I knew we were in for something big. The house lights went down, the music started low and got louder before the lights came on full and Bowie took the stage. I thought there was going to be a riot! People started yelling and booing-and this joker next to me is yelling that he wants his money back."

She went on to explain that many of the concert goers knew David Bowie's music, but not his race. Many in the integrated audience learned that the David Bowie, was white.

She continued. "But things calmed down pretty quickly. This man's music transcends race, and by the third or fourth song everyone was into it. I've never seen anything like it!  He put on a great show, but this was so much more than a concert. This was an experience that I'll never forget!"

Geri Sowell's story made an impression on me. I'd never thought of David Bowie's music in terms of black and white, simply because in my young mind I'd always thought music was colorless. I'd certainly never thought music could have power; in this case the power to win over a difficult audience.

Over the years I followed David Bowie's career and was continually amazed as he reinvented himself. I enjoyed seeing the transformations that were more than just costume and makeup changes- he evolved from the inside. He was much more than a singer or actor; this man was a true artist.  He dared to be different, which, in a way told me that conforming to the norm was merely an option in a world full of options. 

When I was studying acting in New York City, I went out with a group of friends and fellow acting students. We eventually found ourselves in a Greenwich Village club that had a dance floor. I heard the first few notes of a favorite  David Bowie song blare over the speakers and heard myself say, "I love this song!"

That's when one friend, (a guy I was majorly crushing on), grabbed my hand and pulled me onto the floor. "Then c'mon!"

For whatever reason, while dancing that night, my life suddenly made sense. I was genuinely happy. I was in New York City, studying acting and in essence, beginning my career. I was with a group of very good friends and dancing with an incredible guy. My future was ahead of me and filled with endless possibilities. It was a rare perfect moment. That night, Let's Dance became my personal anthem for embracing life. To this day I can't hear that song without vividly remembering that night and smiling.

I suppose it's simply a part of life. As we grow older, more and more people who've always been in our lives pass on. Sometimes, it's hard say goodbye. David Bowie's passing was unexpected. Through his artistic talents, he touched countless lives.  He became part of the soundtrack of my life when I was very young...and am so grateful.

Much love to Iman and his family.

Funny, I can't seem to get that song out of my head.

Let's dance,
Put on your red shoes and dance the blues
Let's dance,
To the song they're playin' on the radio
Let's sway,
While color lights up your face
Let's sway,
Sway through the crowd to an empty space...

Goodnight David. Safe journeys.

A Delicate Balance

 

That incredible wonderful weird feeling washed over me as I was suddenly struck with inspiration and unbelievable clarity. My fingers moved quickly over the keyboard in a desperate attempt to keep up with my mind which was racing frantically. Prior to this moment, I’d struggled with a pivotal scene in book one of my romantic series, Fall Again: Beginnings.

The scene involved my two main characters, Marc and Lauren, and the first time they're alone together. They’re just friends. He thinks she’s a spoiled little princess while she’s labeled him an arrogant New York actor. By the end of the scene these negative perceptions must become mutual respect as an attraction begins. This shift in attitudes needs to happen honestly and organically, and until moments before had no idea how this would happen. But suddenly my hands were effortlessly flying over the keys as Marc and Lauren began to discover each other’s true selves.

“Donna!”

I was startled away from Marc’s New York apartment to find myself in my own Los Angeles apartment, in bed with my laptop. In front of me is my husband, Tony.

He hands me a cup of coffee. “We need to leave for work in twenty minutes.”

Tony had interrupted my impromptu morning writing session. He's been more than patient with me since I began writing. He’s never complained that I don’t always cook dinner, (our favorite Chinese delivery place is on speed dial), and our home is not always as neat and clean as it could be. But Tony fully supports me and my writing, which helps me believe in myself.

Thankfully, Tony also knows when to pull me away from the world I’ve created and drag me back to reality. Twenty-two minutes later, I was applying makeup in the passenger seat of our car and sulking as we pull out of our driveway. “I only need eight more hours a day to stay on track…but I guess I can’t quit my day job.”

Tony pats my knee. “So quit… after you win the Pulitzer.”



I never dreamed that writing would take over my life! And no one bothered to tell me that with writing comes editing, marketing and keeping up on social media. Once I began writing seriously nothing else seemed to matter. My weekends of movies and malls became a thing of the past. Date nights with my husband turned into ordering food in…and I may or may not have always joined my husband after the food arrived. I found myself stressing when I left characters in precarious situations as I attended to the business of my life-hoping they’d be okay until I returned.

For a time, I found the smallest tasks overwhelming and was having trouble managing my time between my writing and the rest of my life which at the time involved a day job. I reached out  to a friend who has been writing for at least two decades and asked for his advice. "How do I do this?"

His answer surprised me. "Sometimes, you'll just need to stop writing, regroup and recuperate. You'll know when to start back up again. Give yourself permission to take some time for yourself!

I listened. I’m happy to report that now, out of necessity, I've  found more balance in my life. When I need to take a break from my writing, I do so and no longer feel guilty. I’ll read someone else’s book, have drinks with friends, or a date night with Tony. He planned an amazing New Year's Eve for the two of us a few weeks ago. I managed to leave thoughts of my current project at home.  It wasn’t easy, but I’ve learned the value of eating properly, getting a good night’s sleep and socializing.  As a result my writing is stronger and life in general is better!

While everyone is different, I've found a few ways to help me decompress, recalibrate and recover a sense of balance when things start to shift.


     Shift into domestic mode- it's amazing that doing something as simple and regimented like vacuuming or preparing a home cooked meal can take your mind away from matters that are cause you to feel unbalanced. The upside is that after you're done you have a cleaner home or a good meal.

     Spend quality time talking to a friend or loved one- shifting focus beyond myself and my own personal universe makes me remember that there is a real world with real people who I care about(and who hopefully care about me) beyond my current project. Meeting in person is great, but so is the ancient practice of talking via telephone.

     Revisit your childhood- escape by watching a favorite movie or an episode of a favorite TV show from another time in your life. Your focus may shift to a time when things were simpler. (For me it's the classic Peanuts specials.) 

     Exercise- seriously, exercise (or simply getting up and moving) will positively effect every part of your life. While a visit to the gym or taking a class of some sort are great, sometimes just getting outside and walking can do wonders for your psyche and help to clear some of the clutter from your mind.

     Taking breaks from social media- this will help to keep you grounded. Remember, there's a whole world beyond the computer or phone screen . Not posting for the duration of a meal or movie will not cause the world to end. There's a lot to be said for face to face conversation (though I'm afraid that this basic and valuable skill could be going the way of the rotary phone). 


Never let your writing take over your life. Having balance  in your life will help keep you focused in all areas of your life ...and keep you sane! It's okay to STOP  and take time for life's necessities...and  yourself! Life is far too short not to enjoy it while you can. Your writing will be there when you're ready to return.



With Tony on New Year's Eve

Today, I finished a rewrite of a scene in the next book of the Fall Again series- California Girl.  I'd had trouble with my primary character's motivation which had caused me to lose sleep for the past few nights. But now the scene reads smoothly and I've been able to maintain my main characters integrity. To celebrate, I'm  going to clean house and maybe cook a nice meal. You see, I need to decompress and hopefully find that wonderful feeling of balance.

Write well.