Competitions, Portraits, Portrait Models

A sample competition image from long ago.

Though I went screaming and kicking into retirement...the time has come. I am still here to help you figure this out. I officially retired from Portraits and Sports at the end of 2021. I feel I have found a great photographer for referrals. You can fill in the form on my About Me page, where there is more info and we will get things rolling for you. If you have my cell, by all means text me or call me at my Art Gallery, Art on the Hill in Souderton, 215-721-2704.

I would like to sincerely thank all of the parents who trusted me with their most treasured possessions, your children for 20+ years. Parents were open about what they wanted and how we could achieve that for them. They also allowed me artistic freedom in creating images for for my Portrait Models Program, in addition to Competition Images for the Professional Photographer's Association. This included both high school age and junior models who helped to shape the style of images that defined J Gray Fabian Photography. Many times it was to try out a new location, or a new "look" or certain images or ages, just as samples for variety on my website. I especially need to thank those kids, both young and old, who worked with me to achieve the results I envisioned for them. They were patient, relaxed, and willing to try any idea that I had.

My goal was always...make it fun, and keep them engaged. [2 year old or a 16 year old] The best shots were the ones in between the poses. Tots were always a favorite.

Most clients chose to use their images in their holiday cards. This was always a wonderful compliment. One of my clients gave me the best compliment, "Friends and family are still commenting on how beautiful our cards were and it is months later!" The best compliment was always when they returned for updated Portraits. Fall is such a busy time. We often did Holiday Sessions in the spring or summer when nature is alive and it is mild outdoors. I could still custom design a holiday card based around these outfits. Plus non-holiday outfits lent themselves to images that families wanted for wall art and custom Art Albums; changing outfits was always encouraged at sessions. One of my favorite parts after sessions was creating their Cards and Custom Art Albums designed with many images, special wording and details specific to each family. This was a way to have their many favorites when they could not narrow down their choices.

Senior Portraits

Senior Portraits that are different from everyone else, not just posed in front of a backdrop, was always my goal. Never formal, just relaxed and fun; we went where ever they wanted to go to show their personality, their interests, their talents. There are so many great places to be sure each was unique. It is a matter of finding the light to create something they would love.

High School Portrait Models This was never about beauty and size 0 like in the fashion world. I wanted current Juniors, who were out-going and fun, and who knew how to ROCK who they are. Sometimes a sophomore and/or a freshman were accepted. Only a few from each high school would be chosen, and of course parental permission and involvement was required.

It was a chance to represent their peers and appear in our marketing and on our website. We wanted to show our photographic style and a fashion forward flair. This reflected current trends for High School Portraits, and for teens who did not want school pictures to be their only option. Models received special sessions along with other perks, plus a credit for their Senior Portraits, and special pricing on products from each session, if they chose. I was so proud of how all of these many young people handled themselves within the program. They truly made me look good!

Sample Junior Portrait Models