Photographer Spotlight: Capturing the Beauty of Paris

In the diverse and vibrant world of photography, it's always an exciting journey to stumble upon extraordinary talents that leave a lasting impression. Recently, a noteworthy discovery emerged from one of our photography groups – an exceptional photographer based in the enchanting city of Paris.

Introducing Fran Boloni, a visionary artist who expertly encapsulates the allure and romance of Paris through their lens. With an impeccable eye for detail and a profound understanding of lighting and composition, their work resonates with an unparalleled sense of artistry.

Classic California style meets Paris.

The portfolio of Fran speaks volumes about their ability to showcase Paris in its most captivating form. From the timeless elegance of the Eiffel Tower to the quaint cobblestone streets of Montmartre, each photograph tells a unique story, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the poetic charm of the City of Light.

Furthermore, Mr. Boloni exhibits a remarkable knack for capturing candid moments that evoke genuine emotions, infusing their photographs with a palpable sense of life and vitality. Whether it's a candid snapshot of a Parisian café or a candid exchange between locals, their work exudes an unmistakable authenticity.

Here at Shooting Star Photography LLC, we take pride in shedding light on masterful photographers who redefine visual storytelling, and Fran undoubtedly exemplifies this ethos. Their work inspires us to look beyond the obvious, to seek beauty in the unlikeliest of places, and to embrace the rich tapestry of human experiences that Paris so graciously offers.

Nighttime elegance.

As we continue to celebrate the brilliance of photographers around the world, Both his photography companies, The Paris Photographer and The Now Time has undeniably earned a place of honor in our spotlight. We invite our readers to delve into their captivating portfolio and embark on a visual odyssey through the enchanting streets of Paris.
Stay tuned for more captivating features as we unravel the talents that define the fabric of our ever-evolving photographic community.

Paris is the city of love.

Here is my interview with Fran Boloni

1. Describe the perfect day with your family or a little about yourself and background.

Hello, my name is Fran Boloni, I’m the founder of The Paris Photographer and The Now Time. I’m specialized in couples photos, having photographed over 1000 couples in the past 10 years in Paris for their engagement, honeymoon, wedding or anniversary.

Originally hailing from the mystical land of Transylvania, Romania, I have made the beautiful city of Paris my home for the past 13 years. My idea of a perfect day is quite simple: soaking in the Parisian sun on a gorgeous spring day at Parc Monceau with my dear wife and lively 5-year-old daughter. The highlight of our day is often the simple joy of savoring an Amorino ice cream, a sweet punctuation to our leisurely strolls.

2. What inspired you to get into photography?

Paris is what inspired me to get into photography. When I moved here and started discovering the city, I fell in love with it. Everywhere you go in the city, there is something beautiful and interesting to be captured.

Dancing in the square. It is all about capturing memories in Paris.

3. Can you share a memorable experience where your photography played a significant role in enhancing the narrative of a couple's special day?

Every so often, I have the privilege of connecting so deeply with a couple that our initial engagement photoshoot in the romantic city of Paris evolves into a continued collaboration for their wedding. Such was the case with a delightful couple hailing from Southern California. After capturing their engagement in 2016, marked by a photo that fondly resonates with me to this day, they graciously invited me to journey to Laguna Beach, entrusting me with the honor of documenting their stunning wedding.

This experience came with a profound sense of fulfillment for the artist in me.Do you have any unique spots or restaurants for couples visiting Paris to check out?

Movement and the iconic Parisian Streets.

4. Do you have any tips on what couples should bexpect for their engagement in Paris?

Definitely, I love having a coffee and chocolate croissants at Café du Trocadéro before the tourists arrive (before 8AM) and just watch the beautiful early morning light at the Eiffel Tower. It’s so contagious.

5. What makes your experience unique?

For couples who wish to have unforgettable engagement photos, the most important thing is to prepare your shoot: decide on locations, outfits (that match the locations), hire a beauty artist and check the weather so your hairstyle fits the day (windy, rainy, etc) and trust your photographer. At The Paris Photographer we pride ourselves in helping our clients prepare for their Paris photoshoot.

Flowy dresses encapsulate the charm and fashion of Paris.

It’s true that many of our clients talk more about the experience of taking photos than about the photos themselves because it is a unique experience. You get to wake up early and catch the beautiful morning light in a city that is always beautiful. You then get to see the places through the eye of an artist, while you create beautiful photos. Plus, it’s an experience that you spend with your loved one and create a stronger bond in your relationship, by spending time in a romantic way.

6. Do you speak English for Canadians and Americans vacationing in Paris?

All our Paris photographers and London photographers speak English. Some of them even speak additional languages such as Spanish, Portuguese and Russian among other. Communication is key in what we do because a big part in creating amazing images is that our subjects feel comfortable in front of our camera and they only focus on connecting with each other and enjoying the experience.

I personally speak English, French, Romanian and Hungarian too. I can understand German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, as they're latin languages (minus German).

Macaroons and a Tiffany ring make for fun Parisian props.

7. Do you have a makeup and hair artist or have a salon you can recommend for your portrait experience?

We only work with professional beauty artists who have proven their trust throughout the year. I’d suggest checking out our Paris Beauty Artist recommendations on our website.

8. Any tips on what to wear and/or preferences in what looks best with the Paris scenery?

This is such a vast subject, we have an entire guide on our website, that being said I have a personal preference for flowy dresses. You can create such dramatic images with them!

9. What is the most interesting proposal you have had to date?

Miami couple maternity shoot in Paris.

The most interesting proposal was by a gentleman from Miami. He proposed with a Tiffany ring and we took photos in the Tiffany store on the Champs Elysées after the Eiffel Tower proposal. Fun thing is that after their engagement photos, I got the priviledge to photograph their wedding in Miami and then we took pregnancy photos back in Paris. Can’t wait to see them again soon to take their family photos, anywhere in the world with our new photography brand The Now Time.

Interview Conclusion with Fran, The Paris Photographer.

It was truly a pleasure to sit down with Fran. Throughout our conversation, Fran's passion for photography and the vibrant city he calls home was palpable. His deep connection to the streets, the architecture, and the people of Paris emanated through his work, and his dedication to capturing the essence of the city was inspiring.

If you are looking for a destination portrait session in Paris, their work is magical and what a way to capture those vacation memories!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO FOR YOUR SESSION

TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO FOR YOUR SESSION

I may be opening up a can of worms here, maybe not, but I can't express how important it is to discuss what you will be wearing prior to your photo session with your photographer.  I want to explain why this is so important.What you wear is one of the most IMPORTANT aspects to your session.  What you wear is a huge aspect to what the overall composition will look like in regards to your final product.  People pay good money for their memories and certain things you wear can affect your session and your end product.Here are a few suggestions on... 

Check out the beautiful baby bump!

Momma to be maternity session in the cherry blossoms in Cherry Hill, NJ.

TOP 10 THINGS ON WHAT NOT TO WEAR/DO For your session

1.  No Flip Flops

I don't know what it is, but they just do not photograph well or look well in regards to a session.  Unless, it is a beach session, I see no need for them. I see a lot of maternity sessions ruined by flip flops with these beautiful fabric flowing gowns.  It does not look pretty! I see photographers trying to cover these flip flops up in editing with this flowing fabric because of this. Flip flops are great for the beach and great for hanging out with friends, but they honestly don't photograph well or look well on camera. 

2.  Consider where you will be getting your photographs done... and your location

Are you going to be getting photographed in a garden?  Well, don't wear green! There's a ton of green all around and well, you'll blend in like Waldo.  You want to wear something that will be complimentary to your surroundings.  Obviously, if you are being photographed in front of a red barn, you aren't going to be wearing red or a similar color.  You'll be lost!  You'll want to wear complimentary colors to your environment.  

With a garden scene, you'll want to wear light or natural clothing to blend in with the environment. Pastels also work well against greens. Obviously white or black clothing can be complimentary to almost any location.  However, if going for a vintage feel or more modern, consider what you will be wearing for that session and the look you are wanting to go for.

3.  Please, please, please... Do not show up with graphic tees with heavy wording on them.. It does not photograph well. 

4.  No sweat pants.

It's sad that I even have to mention that... but no one looks great photographed in sweatpants.  I couldn't even imagine beautiful Beyonce being photographed in them.  Just please don't!

5.  No Ripped or stained clothing.

Are these images you want to remember and see for the rest of your life? You want to show that pizza stain that you couldn't get out from a few weeks ago and decided to wear again.. go ahead!  I think folks don't get that the camera sees everything.  It sees things that the human eye can't see. Yes, if you think that stain is unnoticeable try again. It will be magnified by a hundred times on camera!

6. Wear clothes that fit.  

Please... I beg of you.If you are a size 10, but trying to fit into your much tighter size 8, it is not going to look pretty.  It will just magnify your back fat and any bulges, rolls you may have.  Take into consideration your bra, so that your bra line is not showing. These simple things go overlooked and people wonder why they look like a stuffed sausage or even bigger than they really are because they are not wearing the proper clothing.

7.  Heavy makeup.

 Heavy makeup does not photograph well.  You can still wear makeup, but try to make yourself look more natural and don't cake it on.

8.  Be cautious of wearing hairbands on wrists.

I've seen many of my photographer counterparts have to Photoshop it out.  It doesn't look pretty in the end result.

9.  Be Well-Groomed 

IF you do decide on wearing flip-flops (please don't), but if you do... make sure your feet are well-manicured. Make sure your nails are trimmed as well as  goatees/beards. Make sure you have no hair roots. If not taken care of, they are even more magnified on camera.

10.  No chewing gum, smoking (yep, folks do that).

Make sure you're bathed and the kids are bathed. You don't want dried snot on camera. It looks hideous. Mismatched socks.. hairy legs (especially women).  Just make sure you are well-groomed for your camera debut!  AND yes, unfortunately all these things happen! If you are spending your hard-earned money on having yourself photographed, please don't do the above.  Everything comes up like a microscrope when you are being photographed.

Talk to your photographer! They will help you decide on what is appropriate for your session.  We know what photographs well and doesn't, due to our experience in the field.  Trust us! Don't be shy with discussing it! We want to make this the best streamlined process ever. You can dress casually if this is the look you are going for, but remember pick your attire in good taste!  

If you search the net, you can find great color schemes and outfits to wear.  Especially, for a family session or a particular theme. If you want the best for your session, please don't do the above!  Obviously, you are the paying customer and can wear what you want.  However, there are some things that you should be aware of to make your photographs more beautiful! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee  

Top 5 Reasons To Work With Me (Only Click Here... if you are awesome)

Enjoying lollipops!

Playing with pumpkins.

There are a gazillion photographers out there and they all look all the same, they put out the same product and well, it gets a little boring, but there are a few things that will set me apart and why you (yup, you're awesome, did you know that?) would want to work with me!So.. I gathered up a spectacular top 5 list and hope you enjoy the quirky humor and maybe have a good laugh?

1. PersonalityThat's me, Mrs. Personality. In fact, I was class clown for many years in my youth and even had aspirations of being on Saturday Night Live "when I grew up."  I light up a room and make people laugh and feel at ease. I swear they made that song... "They call you Mr. Personality because you're so ugly"  about me! Humor is a huge component of my life and I'm able to laugh even in the darkest moments.  I realized very young that life is too short and one must live it and enjoy it! You should know that I'm endlessly cheerful and full of giddiness!I have two kids myself and apply this humor into everyday life with them. My kids are laughing and happy all the time and are very well-behaved and adjusted little monkeys. I apply this love and humor when I work with kids and babies. Many folks are amazed how I get the kids to cooperate and even can get a genuine smile out of a child who doesn't like to smile much. I'm not afraid of making myself look like a fool to get those beautiful photos! I truly have a way with people and I love people!You are seriously going to have a great time during your session!  Everyone that I have worked with says it is the most fun they ever had being photographed! That means being relaxed and having the time of your life! Seriously, I love capturing life and smiles! My clients are just like you!  Happy, cheerful and funny!

2.  I'm A Big Nerd.

I don't know what happened to me and I use to be considered "cool", but something happened and switched in my adult life! Haha! I enjoy Dr. Who, I can laugh at the Big Bang Theory and understand what comes out of Sheldon's mouth. I know weird facts that a lot of people don't know, I like going on adventures (like hiking an old pirate highway here in South Jersey where the Pirates were known to roll their rum barrels on) and discovering unique places all over SJ (I share them on my South Jersey History & Adventures Website),I'm a wanderlust and have traveled all over the world (heading to Ireland this year). I like reading and have a large library in my home and like to collect books. I love gardening. I am a huge nut! Give me a Latin name of a plant and I'll tell you all about it.  I have one of the most beautiful private gardens in South Jersey and welcome my customers here all the time for sessions. It's my Garden of Eden and I love to share it.However, being a wanderlust has allowed me to find really neat locations for my customers!! I strive to be different and to offer a different experience! Yup, a huge dork... Told Ya!

3. PeopleI

love people and am actually one of those who actually loves working with people. This is why I believe I was bred for being a photographer. You won't get any unnatural, awkward photos from me.  Fake smiles... Sheesh, no way that's not even in my vocabulary! I am a bit like a chameleon (as have been told by friends) in which I can fit in with the corporate president/CEO types (I worked with a Fortune 500 company) and can hang with the average "working man."I have friends from all walks of life! From doctors, pharmacists, to CEO's, to the friend that works at Walmart. I love people and I'm not one to judge's anyone's character. I truly believe every one is uniquely special and I treat every client with the upmost respect and as a queen! I think this is why people are comfortable in working with me. My bubbly personality and my attention to detail!

4. Attention to Detail/Preparation

I am one of those who is ALWAYS prepared!  I always bring a backup camera, batteries, memory cards with me. I plan out each session and discuss with my clients which direction they are trying to achieve and what they truly want out their session. I think it's my true attention to detail.. That makes me a bit of a perfectionist and I'm the hardest critic when it comes to my work. I strive for great communication and customer service.  I also send every customer a thank you card after each session. When you choose me, you are getting my experience  (I’m reliable, organized, and great under pressure.)You don't want to go bowling with me though, I'm lucky to score in the 30's), but I'm a great cheerleader! Before your session day, I work hard to make this experience easy! From locations, to what to wear and offering tips of advice... I'm here for you along the way (and even after)!

5. I'm Here For You!

Yup, that's me! I'll be here for you every step of the way from start to finish. If you're camera shy, a little goofy/awkward behind the camera, no one will ever notice... If you work with me! I'm all about the experience in what I can give my customers. It's all what it is about and a positive/fun one in that!  I have yet to have any boring sessions.  They are all so much fun!

Does this sound like something you are looking for? If you think that I what I offer is perfect for you, please contact me via this form right away!https://secure.jotform.us/form/50975540422151

My Personal Pledge

People want to have personalized experiences and want to feel important in this modern-day world. Service has truly become abysmal, no matter where you go. I am grateful for being a new business (almost 30 sessions in and booking and growing from my initial start date of, October 11, 2014).

 I am grateful that these clients come to see me and some have even come back to see me already. They make it possible for me to make my living in an agreeable way.  In that regard, I am going to give them, the very best I possibly can! I give my best to each family/child session and my work becomes better and better because of it!

My little lady in my backyard!

  Starting this 2015 year, I have made it a mission to put customer service as my number one priority.  You matter to me! You are important! Without you, I wouldn't be where I am today!  I am here not only as a professional, but in a way to gain new life-long working friendships!  

And if you want to make friends, you got to put yourself out to do things for other people- things that require time, energy, unselfishness and thoughtfulness.  This is the passion I put into my business and give to my clients.  This is what separates myself from most and why folks WANT to work with me and are even coming back, here in South Jersey! 

 This is what I can offer you! 

Availability... Yes!  I will answer the phone when you call, I will answer your emails or questions in a timely fashion.  I value your time, your inquiries, I value you!  I will have a quick turn-around time for your photographs! I have never gone over 4-5 days (even at my busiest of times) to have them available to you! 

EVERY CUSTOMER gets a personalized thank you card after each session.  

Yes, I personally write out a note for each and every one of my clients (even if it was just a mini-session).  I offer high-end products as well as a boutique level of service and try to make it affordable for everyone. I feel people are deserving of beautiful memories, no matter what income or demographic you are from. 

Photography is a passion of mine and nothing is better than seeing laughter, seeing a smile and holding on to those memories forever. They are treasured for decades!

  You will also gain my respect. Respect, in this day and age, is very few, far, and in between.  If you do not want a child's photo listed on the internet, or are uncomfortable with that (some parents are), I will respect your decision and not post them!   

 Service has been forgotten in these times.  It has not been forgotten on my end. I want to stand out from the crowd and among my South Jersey cohorts.  I feel this is what will help me grow.

Let me have the chance to show you what true professional service is about!  I feel that if I can understand my clients and their needs, I will become successful. You cannot have success, if you don't treasure your clients because that's what I do, I sincerely treasure each and every client of mine.  

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee