After my first conversation with Kassee I knew it was going to be great. Aaron and Kassee had dressed as a magician and assistant for Halloween last year. Kassee suggested the movie the Prestige as inspiration – one of my favorites! With so much visual imagery to work with, we began creating this shoot. It truly blossomed into a simple portrait to a full story about this “magic couple.”

I am so excited to finally share it with you but first a few shout outs. This shoot was truly a collaboration, and was made possible by a lot of talented people. Kassee brought along her collection of fabulous vintage clothing which made for some amazing details. Although they technically are the “winners” I owe a big thanks to Kassee and Aaron for being such amazing people to work with. I also couldn’t ask for more perfect locations, made possible by the Kern County Museum and The Fox Theater. I should also add, when I was searching for a theater to use I had some wonderful friends who are active in the theater community really step up and offer me a stage. I am always so touched when people come together to help create art! Chelsea Edge is responsible for Kassee’s fabulous hair and make-up. Last but not least, Coy Townson shot along side me and captured all the beautiful details while I was setting up the main scenes.

And now…

Here are some of Coy Townson’s beautiful detail shots:

After Mary-Ann stepped in front of my camera for the Valentine’s Day Pin-Up shoot, I realized how perfectly my favorite make-up artist photographs. I did warn her I was going to make her model again…. and again. So, this weekend when she made a surprise visit to Bakersfield for her mother’s birthday, we decided to set up a shoot too. We didn’t give our selves much time to organize. So Mary-Ann stepped in and did a beautiful job as Dorothy. Rigo was once again my go to guy and filled the role of the Scarecrow.

In case you didn’t know, I happen to love the Wizard of Oz. I even brought out my old Halloween costumes from junior high and used elements from them to style up our modern take on the classic. Then once we started collaborating, we decided there would be no ruby slippers and blue gingham for us. However, I would like to point out Mary-Ann is kicking it old school in some stunning silver shoes, just like the original book. I absolutely love creating these fairtytale shoots. It begins with a story for inspiration, and grows from there. Here are three images I created from our shoot today.

With the thoughts you’ll be thinkin you could be another Lincoln if you only had a brain….

Come along, Dorothy. You don’t want any of those apples.

Poppies… poppies will put them to sleep…