Welcome to Pamira Bezmen Photography Blog.
I'm a photographer. I'm a mother. I'm a student of life. I'm a believer in love.
My blog is about my passion for life and photography, about children, the miracle of babies,
mothering, and maybe more.
I hope you find joy and inspiration in what you read.
Don't forget to check out my gallery and see my photographs,
and maybe I will get to photograph your family's precious moments one of these days...
Love and Light be on you today and every day… :)
- Pamira
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Happy Father's Day! | by Pamira Bezmen Photography
Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads in our lives and those who are no longer with us. Their legacy lives on...
Whether you're celebrating under quarantine with your closest ones or you've thrown off the masks and taken it to the town for a big party, you deserve all the celebration. For everything you do every day. For the balance, strength, perseverance, hard work, and love you bring to the world.
Thank you to all our dads from the bottom of our hearts...
Love,
-Pamira
Happy Mothers' Day | Pamira Bezmen Photography
To all the magical moms out there, who pull unicorns out of their hats every day, under the hardest conditions and against all odds! Sending you love, respect, and appreciation!
HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY!!!!!
Love,
Pamira
Even though we have some limitations, we can still capture memories.
I continue to offer safe photo shoots to my clients, on your front porch, in your back-yard, or in nature. If you wish to capture special memories during this time, you don't have to miss out.
Happy Easter, Different times, same love | Pamira Bezmen Photography
Dear Friends,
It is the first time in our life-times that the whole world is experiencing a different spring all at once. As we crave the old normality of our lives, we have been equalized and naturalized beyond our wildest dreams virtually overnight.
I wish you all much love, strength and peace during this time, which I know is hard for many. I remain hopeful and trusting that out of the deepest darkness, unknown and challenges rise the greatest light, truth, and strength.
Happy Easter, Passover, and Ramadan!!!
With much love,
- Pamira
As we modify the way the interact with each other, make and capture memories, I am offering safe-distance photo shoots to my clients, on your front porch, in your back-yard, or in nature. If you wish to capture special memories during this time, you don't have to miss out. Inquire here.
The Astorino Financial Group | by Pamira Bezmen Photography
It is my great pleasure to introduce you to The Astorino Financial Group and share some images from our corporate branding photo-shoot. Meeting Frank has been one of the greatest gifts of 2019 for me, and I am excited to share with you what I’ve learned from him about financial planning and why every single one of us needs to be thinking about working with a professional who is not only experienced and has proven to stand the test of time, but also possesses the humanity to treat us as the unique individuals that we are.
Chances are, many of you already know Frank and his family, as he grew up in Essex Fells, being one of the 8 Astorino children. He and his wife Debbie moved next-door to North Caldwell when they had their triplets. Frank has been an integral part of the community ever since, active in philanthropy, education, and as a Councilman.
Frank’s passion for financial planning and his love of people came together under one umbrella when he opened his own practice in 1986. His motto has always been and still is: Putting Clients First.
The Astorino Financial Group offers highly personalized wealth management, financial planning, retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, philanthropic strategies, longevity planning, divorce transition services, college planning, employee benefits, and more. But what makes The Astorino Financial Group significantly distinguished in the industry is not what they do, but how they do it. Before they even start talking about your financials, Frank and his team seriously care about WHO YOU are.
Every relationship begins with understanding your passions, your life-style, how you live today and how you want to be living into the future. Your priorities, family structure, age, health, and expectations from life play into what kind of financial plan they recommend to you. The team at The Astorino Financial Group walks you through the scenarios, why and how they may work for you, and what you need to know to make an informed decision about your investments. Educating clients so that they feel empowered in their choices is an integral part of what they do.
Many clients choose to work with The Astorino Financial Group year after year, and some have stayed with the group for 3, even 4 generations. The Astorino Group is proud to be chosen to serve these clients over the long term.
The Astorino Financial Group employs a diverse group of professionals who span a wide knowledge and experience base, from corporate executives to retirement, estate-planning to women-centric advice that is specific to women investors and longevity.
While The Astorino Financial Group uses complex, state-of-the-art technology to help clients attain their financial goals, they also offer a full arsenal of easy-to-use modern tools that clients can use on their own on a daily basis to get their financials under control and to improve their own understanding of their habits. With all their financial assets, liabilities and investments at their finger-tips, Astorino clients are able to get a thorough understanding of where they are relative to their goals, and what adjustments are necessary. As a result, clients and Astorino advisors work as a team, focused on the same goals.
Frank’s advice for clients is to:
- Take the time to interview your potential financial advisor to ensure that their philosophies and value proposition match your values and priorities
- Prioritize your time to be with your family and pursue your life’s passions.
- Delegate managing money to a capable professional who understands your values and whom you trust.
If you are ready to get professional advice on wealth management, you can find The Astorino Financial Group at www.astorinofinancialgroup.com or [email protected], on Facebook at @Astorino Financial Group, or call them at (973) 575-1403.
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The original article and a selection of images from our photo shoot were published in the March 2020 issue of the Essex Fells Magazine.
Daly Family | by Pamira Bezmen Photography
The first time I spoke with Jenny on the phone to begin planning our photo shoot, it was a series of excited "yes, I know"s and "yes, exactly!!!"s and more of "yes, that's so true!"s back and forth. It was clearly just one of those times we were destined to come into each other's lives, and this photo shoot was just the right excuse to make it happen!
The Daly Family call themselves "The Daly Bunch", in a humorous way, after The Brady Bunch. Both Scott and Jenny have their first daughters Amelia and Ava, and Emily, respectively, from their previous marriages, and they decided to unite their lives under one roof, joined by their mutual babies Abigail and Scott Jr., adored by all their elder sisters.
I met The Dalys in their North Caldwell home, at the end of a lovely cul de sac. As soon as the door opened, I felt a rush of bubbly energy, love and joy wash over me! I am an energy-feeler and an empath, and I have a tendency to immediately read the energy in a space. It fills my heart with joy when this level of positivity comes over me, and I just wanted to throw my camera on the floor and hug everyone! LOL! If you know me, you are probably visualizing this scene, because I actually did some of that - it was before the coronavirus social distancing times, so we were all cool with that :)
This beautiful family is a modern family, where Jenny proudly wears the skirt to bring in the bread as a Vice President of Wealth Management and Financial Advisor at Janny Montgomery Scott LLC, and Scott proudly wears the pants running the household, taking care of the kids and attending to their education and activities as their stay at home father. Clearly it takes a strong level of mutual trust, respect and self confidence for any family to step outside of the "typical" roles, and it's easy to see why Jenny and Scott are so good at it. These two love-birds have known each other forever, and developed a deep friendship before anything else. They shared with me their photo albums from their teenage years, and I got to photograph them holding their first ever picture together in their hands, now adorned by their wedding bands. I can't think of too many scenes more meaningful to a loving couple than this - history, longevity, friendship, commitment, endurance, all in one little photo.
The kids are an absolute bundle of joy, each one sweet, kind and special. The little ones are bursting with such bomb-like energy, you have to know them to appreciate the personalities! They all share a special bond and care for each other immensely.
My day with The Daly Bunch was absolute joy and fun. Getting to know them, hearing their stories, feeling their love just warmed my heart, and I am honored and blessed to meet them, as I look forward to many more years of friendship and making memories together.
If you get to see them around town, say hello! And if you're searching for an experienced financial advisor to help you navigate through your finances, help you organize and simplify your life by streamlining your finances, you can find Jenny at [email protected] or call her at 201.883.5615. Her clients adore her and I am sure it's for al the good reasons.
Some of the photographs from our photo shoot were published in the March 2020 issue of the North Caldwell Magazine, where The Daly Family was the cover family of the same issue, accompanied by an article written by NC resident Kat Krannich.
Pamira Bezmen Photography Earns Bronze Medals at 2020 Portrait Masters Awards
Leprechauns are not the only magical creatures | Pamira Bezmen Photography
Leprechauns are not the only magical creatures!
I know it can be hard to focus sometimes in the midst of health scares, global economic concerns, with every news station yelling in our ears on the impending dooms day that is approaching... And by all means, we need to stay smart, open eyed and take precautions to the best of our ability to protect our loved ones and our community.
But once we have done the best that we can do, we need to detach and have hope and faith. That is when we need to focus on all the beauty and joy that is here, right now. If it is your children, your spouse, your pets, your home, or sunshine filling into your bedroom in the morning, or a new petal growing on your kitchen plant... Focus on it.
Focus on it deeply, feel its magic, feel its power, and be grateful.
Because life is only meaningful as long as we are able to feel the magic.
With only a few days to go before St. Patrick's Day, schools closing and stores running out of toilet paper, let's all take the weekend off from being sad and scared, and let's all renew our souls and hearts with all the magic currently in our lives.
Let's renew our hearts so that if the going gets tougher later on, we will have our reserves full and ready to keep going. Grab your kids and go for a walk in the woods. Get out to the back-yard to run around with them. Take your camera or cell phone and snap a few pictures of someone or something that makes you happy.
Sending you all much love. Please stay happy, hopeful and healthy. Wash your hands often, eat well, rest well, and stay away from sick people and stress.
PS: A quick note for anyone who is considering a photo-shoot in the coming days/weeks:
As usual, we take great care that the studio and all supplies, outfits and accessories are cleaned and sanitized appropriately. We never book multiple sessions back-to-back, everything that will come into contact with children, especially babies, is pre-washed with non-toxic materials. I wash my hands thoroughly before every photo shoot, and sanitize several times during a newborn photo-shoot. All hard surfaces are also sanitized.
I never show up sick at a photo-shoot or if I have symptoms that can be contagious.
This is just normal business here, as I care for your family like I do for my own, so that you can enjoy your photo-shoot and make memories without other worries.
With much love,
-Pamira
#pamirabezmen #pamirabezmenphotography #capturethemagicoftheirchildhood #staycalm #focusonlove #hope #stpatricksday #njfamilyphotographers #covid19
Wormser Family Cover Story | Pamira Bezmen Photography
Recently I photographed the adorable Wormser Family for the February Cover Story of North Caldwell Magazine. They welcomed me to their beautiful, light and airy home, sparkling with daylight throughout the grand room, floor to ceiling. Fresh with modern art and minimalistic when it comes to decorations, the Wormsers have imagined and designed their home to reflect their personality: Loving, fun and easy-going.
My heart melts when I hit it off with the family I'm photographing, and it was no different with the Wormsers. We picked the grand room for the family cover photo, and then Marni and Cooper hosted me in their rooms for some play-time. Marni enjoyed a private make-up session with Scott, and Cooper and Danielle did story time.
Oh these two!!! Speak of a-do-ra-ble!!!!
Scott and his brother Evan are the third generation at their family business, Wormser Corporation, located in Engelwood, NJ, a global supplier for cosmetics and beauty packaging. The Wormsers belong to the Congregation Agudath Isreal, where Danielle is on the board of the Early Childhood Center, and Marni and Cooper are also enrolled.
Scott also shared with me his story about how he got involved in Project Purple, a charity in search for a cure for pancreatic cancer. He has run many races to raise awareness and funds for the organization, in honor of his late grandmother who lost the battle to this disease. I have no doubt that she is fondly smiling down at him and giving him wings in all his races.
It was fantastic meeting the Wormsers and getting to know them. Their lovely story came out just in time for Valentine's Day in North Caldwell Magazine, written by dear Kat Krannich. Could not have been better timing!
Happy Valentine's Day!
-Pamira
Banshee + Co Hairdressing & LaRosa Family | by Pamira Bezmen Photography
I went to Banshee + co. Harrdressing on a rainy fall day to photograph the beautiful salon and the lovely LaRosa Family. We had a wonderful photo shoot and chit-chatted about natural products, avoiding toxins in our every day lives, healthy living, and caring for our clients like they are family. All things dear to my heart... I'd love to share some of the photos with you and also inform you about a community event coming up on March, 14 2020 organized by Verona Together, in honor of Team Mighty Micco, to raise funds for Alagille Syndrome (a rare childhood disease that Micco has). Read on and join in...
Meet Banshee + co. Hairdressing, located at 396 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell. I’d like to start by saying that what immediately struck me first about this lovely hair salon is the fact that it’s truly a family affair. Catrina, owner and master stylist, has brought her almost 20 years of experience into the salon without compromising an ounce of the personal touch and intimate attention that each client gets. Her husband Mike, although a real estate agent himself (Realtor One Group), dedicates considerable time and support to the salon, personally handling a lot of details from the logo design to marketing and business decisions. Their precious boys Leo (6) and Micco (4) are always visiting, and the staff, currently Olivia and Stephaney, are like family who make you feel welcome and cared for in a down to earth, casual and comfortable ambiance.
Catrina was born and raised in Bellville, NJ and always had a love of arts.
She studied Interior Design before deciding to pursue her passion of Hairdressing. She is an alumna of Artistic Academy and has continued her education at Wella Studios NYC, Goldwell, and her personal favorite Vidal Sassoon just to name a few.
She’s had the opportunity over the years to hone her craft in a few different salons. For the past 10 years she found her home at Shag86, where she fully developed her own signature style of hairdressing, thanks to all the mentors she has meet along the way.
This is how Catrina defines her salon and what makes them stand out from others:
“We are a full-service American hairdressing salon, which was founded on integrity and a promise of providing a quality experience for all of our guests. We really try to offer the clients a calm and relaxing environment they can come to get their hair done and leave feeling refreshed. We like to offer hair care and hair products that are made from naturally derived ingredients. We are environmentally conscious; we recycle and conserve as much as possible; we are a certified Green Business and generate all of our power from Renewable energy sources through MPower Energy.”
Services at Banshee Hairdressing are mindfully crafted to each individual Guest. They hold their Guests’ hair to the highest integrity and take pride in the process. They are proud to offer coloring and cutting customized to your lifestyle in a relaxed atmosphere. Their promise is to have every Guest leave their doors with great energy and an even greater Mane.
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Banshee + Co. believes in sustainable beauty, that's why Catrina partnered with Davines as an official Davines Concept salon! Davines haircare is made mostly with natural, biodegradable ingredients, free of sulphates and parabens, offering superior technology with ammonia-free options.
But there’s more to Banshee than a cool atmosphere and great hair! Catrina and Mike have been living in Verona for 8 years and they are strongly connected with the community.
“Our beliefs and values always come first, and we like to communicate that in business as well. We believe strongly in treating everyone with respect and caring for others especially at home and in our local community. Charity is always at the forefront for us, we regularly fundraise for local causes like the PBA, American Liver Foundation, and more specifically the Alagille Syndrome Alliance. Our youngest son, Micco was born with a rare genetic disorder called Alagille Syndrome, which directly effects his liver. Mike was recently elected to the Board of Directors for the Alagille Syndrome Alliance, which is a global organization and that works directly with Families and children effected by Alagille Syndrome. We even sell Banshee coffee mugs in the salon and online, which the proceeds go directly to the Allagille Syndrome Alliance (ALGSA for short).”
Next time you need a no-fuss, custom hair experience that reflects your authentic style and spirit in a cool and relaxed environment, stop by Banshee + co. Hairdressing. They are sure to send you out feeling refreshed with a low maintenance style and multi-faceted, shimmering hair with depth and drama.
You can find Banshee + co. Hairdressing at 396 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell, NJ. 973-310-9755.
www.bansheehair.com [email protected] @banshee.hair_caldwell #BansheeHair
https://www.facebook.com/BansheeHair/
The original article I wrote for Banshee + co. Hairdressing was published in the North Caldwell Magazine in the December 2019 issue.
I am excited to be a sponsor for Verona Together's 3rd Annual Charity Cornhole Tournament in honor of Team Mighty Micco. We will be fundraising for a rare childhood disease, Alagille Syndrome. If you know my friends Mike Michael LaRosa Your Neighborhood Real Estate Expert and Catrina, Banshee + Co. Hairdressing, they are very active in the community and in raising awareness and funds for this rare disease. If you would like to come to the event on March 14, or become a sponsor, please reach out to VeronaTogether.
#VeronaTogether #AlagilleSyndrome ##TeamMightyMicco #PamiraBezmenPhotography #PamiraBezmen
Meet Astorino Family, North Caldwell | by Pamira Bezmen Photography
A couple of months ago I paid a visit to the Astorino Family in their home in North Caldwell. We had a lovely photo-shoot utilizing their favorite spots inside their home, in the sunny grand room, the cozy family room, and by the piano, as well as some outdoor shots in the back-yard by the pool and the front yard backlit by the warm autumn sun. Here are some favorites from our session. I hope you enjoy the images and the article.
Many of you may already know Frank and Debbie through their community involvement via Bridge, Unico, Write on Sports, Church, or other venues, or maybe some of your children have gone to school with one of their four children Remy, Sheri, Kevin and Kerri, who are as involved in the community as their parents through programs at college, The Bridge, handicap holiday party, and church retreats. Frank is also a Councilman, bringing his positive and balanced energy to the township at a time when it's most welcome.
The Astorinos have been an active and integral part of the North Caldwell community over the past two decades.
This is how Frank reminisces about their initial move to North Caldwell:
“I lived in Essex Fells most of my life. Debbie is originally from South Orange. When we first started a family, we lived in a Cape Cod in Essex Fells. We commenced with an international adoption with the help of Lou Barretti, Phd. and the late Dr. Schlachter, who both lived in Essex Fells at the time. Remy was magic for us after being a childless couple for nine years. Shortly thereafter, adjusting with the new joy in our life, Sheri, Kevin and Kerri arrived on the same day a minute apart from one another. The rest is history.”
History it is! It’s already been 20 years since Frank and Debbie made North Caldwell their home, and during this time they watched their family grow and flourish. All four of the Astorino children are down to earth, sweet and smart, while their bond with each other is visibly strong. Frank and Debbie are rightfully proud of who each one has grown up to become.
“Remy is a beautiful, athletic, warm and friendly young woman who played state champion singles for West Essex and ultimately played for Farleigh Dickenson University in college. She currently works in child development in West Caldwell.
Sheri is currently a senior at Boston College (Frank’s alma mater). She brings joy to everyone she meets. She is intelligent, attractive, and loving. Her memory of growing up in North Caldwell is filled with gratitude.
Kevin is also a senior graduating with honors from Seton Hall University (Debbie’s alma mater) next spring. He is very personable and eager to launch his career. Kevin played varsity sports throughout his West Essex career while maintaining excellent grades and enjoying being an integral part of the family.
Kerri has brought with her beauty, artistic talent and flare for entrepreneurism. She runs her own side business while maintaining a challenging curriculum at TCNJ. She is filled with natural talent and will surprise everyone with every step of her personal journey.”
The Astorinos enjoy their family time and traditions including Sunday dinners and holidays with extended family. They like various activities including golf, tennis, time at their pool and Glen Ridge Country Club; traveling to Italy, the Jersey Shore, and Florida. They cheer for the Giants, Yankees, and US tennis; and to relax, they prefer to listen to jazz and soft rock, read in the family room or go out to dinner to one of their favorite Italian, Asian, or steak restaurants.
Debbie is a teacher. Frank is a Wealth Manager and entrepreneur, the owner of Astorino Financial Group that is a well-established wealth management firm with a dedicated team of professionals that is continuing to grow and expand its services and commitment to its clients. You can find them at www.astorinofinancialgroup.com.
What the Astorinos love the most about North Caldwell are the neighbors, its progressive citizenry, the ability to walk in pleasant surroundings, being involved with important committees, being close to Frank’s work, the dynamic population, services, education and recreation.
Many thanks to the Astorino Family for opening their doors to us and sharing a glimpse of their warm family life with the community.
The original article has been published in the North Caldwell Magazine in December, 2019. Written by Pamira Bezmen. Original photography by Pamira Bezmen Photography.
Ascencio Family photo-shoot at home | by Pamira Bezmen Photography
It came as a shock to most of us when we heard that our beloved Ascencio Family was to move out of town to relocate to Tennessee at the end of the summer. The initial reaction was unanimously one of disbelief, followed by more disbelief and then denial and sorrow.
During the time that the Ascencios lived in Essex Fells, they managed to deeply touch the hearts of many of us with their genuinely caring and kind ways. Whether you met Carlos or Vasanthi, went to school with Ava and Carter, or chatted with Grandma Consuela, Manu or Vinyasa, you felt the same warm connection and humility.
So, as their friend and photographer, I could not let them leave town without a family photo-shoot, and that is exactly what we did!
Carlos, who is originally from Mexico, and Vasanthi, who was born and raised in Malaysia, invested years into the energy industry in corporate executive positions. They both made a decision to use their expertise and know-how to leave the world a better place than they found, and moved to clean energy companies. This decision alone sums up their idealism, respect for the Earth and life in general, and how thoughtfully they approach those around them.
Being in their circle of friends has been a blessing, joy and source of comfort for the soul…
Of all the places they have lived and worked, including India, Singapore, Thailand, Spain, Mexico, Seattle, Houston, Atlanta, Ghana, Croatia, and Milan, the Ascencios loved Essex fells the best.
They say “This town finally made us feel home. The friends we met in Essex Fells made all the difference. We felt connected and a part of big family. The relationships we developed with some of the friends we met at Essex Fells are going to stay with us forever. We originally picked Essex Fells for the school, however we were blessed to meet folks from different walks of life sharing the same ambitions as we do for our kids and family. We believe this is unique to Essex Fells. It took us a while to make the decision to move, knowing very well that we will miss our friends and this lovely community we live in. So if you ask us what makes Essex Fells special, it’s the PEOPLE!”
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For this photo-shoot I met with them in their home at 109 Devon Road (you can see their Zillow listing here), which is now on the market for the next family to join the EF community. Every corner of this house is “home”, with pure loving energy, light and peace that one can feel.
The house has character and warmth, with plenty of open space and daylight pouring in from large windows, and lots of pockets for family time, quiet time and living space. The Ascencios decorated their home with international furniture and some pieces hand-made by Carlos, making every part of the house a meaningful area with memories of their past life and previous homes. Weekends are spent with family and friends, grilling, tending the gardens and kids running around. The sun room, kitchen and garden are their favorite places.
Vasanthi and Carlos have built their lives around family and community, and when you’re here, it is always “Mi casa es su casa”. The kitchen is always open and ready to serve. Vasanthi is pouring out the contents of her fridge for all to share. Manu is readily available to whip up a cake. Carlos is already slicing up the watermelon while the kids are placing the plates and silverware on the table. All this happens before you need to debate if you should stay any longer. You know you are a part of the family. You stay.
Reading, conversations, and sharing quality time are the cornerstones of the Ascencio family. Grandma reads to the children in Spanish. They also have reading time in bed with mom and dad every night. Hanging out, being together, and dining together are daily routines. Everyone helps. Everyone participates in meaningful conversations where wisdom and love reign.
This year they started an organic vegetable garden in the backyard. Grandma surely has the green thumb and manages to bring more avocado seeds to full sprout than anyone else I’ve met. She’s not only Grandma to Manu, Ava and Carter. She is Grandma to all.
The Ascencios have been an integral part of the community, volunteering to help, lead and support whenever possible. Ava and Carter have been valuable members of the Rainbow Elements Club, where our children have partnered on projects like making holiday cards for hospitalized children, collecting donation items for underprivileged local families, and holding team discussions on compassion, kindness and courage. They have impressed me at every meeting with their wisdom and love, way beyond their age.
Vasanthi has been the troop leader for Girl Scout Brownies, and has led the girls into many meaningful projects.
Manu has been a trusted babysitter and caregiver to many families across town, and I know that there will be many Essex Fells children missing her, come September.
As they move out of town, the Ascencios say: “We have been so blessed to meet some of the nicest people ever in EF who have left a mark in our hearts”. They send their thanks to the friends and families who have made their EF life so special and their EFS teachers Mrs. Brutman, Miss Burger and Mrs. Mckenzie, who have helped them through some hard times and mentored the kids with dedication.
Words are not enough to express how much they will be missed. We hope that the next phase of their lives will bring them every happiness and satisfaction they have imagined and more. And we are looking forward to the next time we will be crossing paths again, sharing a meal, a warm hug, and unconditional love.
Good luck, Ascencios, we love you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Love,
-Pamira
The story and photos titled "Farewell Ascencio Family" have been featured in Essex Fells Magazine, in the September 2019 issue.
The Ascencio home on 109 Devon Rd is currently on the market. You can see this beautiful home Zillow listing here.
Tolga Savaci Actor Headshots by Pamira Bezmen Photography
The legend is back in the game! My mom's wonderful husband Tolga Savaci, award-winning actor and top-model who was the heart-throb of generations in Turkey and across Europe is getting back into acting/modeling in New York, USA. Guess who was his photographer! It was truly so much fun working with a pro.
How many men can rock the side-way glance in such a warm, believable way!
If you watched the T.V. series Kurt Seyit ve Sura (Kurt Seyt and Shura), he was the character Yahya Bey, Kurt Seyt's good friend and hotel owner in Pera, Istanbul. You will notice that he looks quite different in real life, a testament to his talent and believable acting.
During this photo-shoot, I wanted to showcase different faces of Tolga, his expressions, and his ability to use his eyes to communicate a variety of emotions. We created a mix of casual, fun, classy and serious looks outdoor and in the studio.
We started out with a leather jacket and jeans outdoors, then moved into the studio for a black-on-black classic head-shot look. Then we did a variety of images with a tuxedo, sitting, standing, and on the ground, showcasing his facial acting skills and his fine physique.
As an homage to his modeling days on the cat-walk, we did some Vanity Fair style shots, too.
silver hair at its best!
This shot reminds me of a scene from The Godfather. Great expression that makes you wonder...
Finally, we moved outdoors again to show a more summery look wearing a t-shirt and then a fine cotton shirt with white summer slacks.
Before wrapping it all up, I asked him if he'd jump in the pool for a final look, as water is second nature to Tolga after years of being a licensed swimmer, diver and a water polo player. We wanted his portfolio to immediately speak for his athletic side as well as his ability to go from sweet-heart to bad-boy, from elegant to sexy, from thoughtful to sensitive.
I am thrilled with how Tolga's gallery came together. I am excited that these images will represent him in New York and beyond for new opportunities.
Working with Tolga was an absolute pleasure. We were talking, directing, acting, laughing and shooting, moving from one set to another, moving the lights around and working with many faces and looks. I'm quite certain that any agency and photographer that gets to work with him professionally will find it equally fulfilling to partner with a pro who has so much experience and depth to offer.
Here is a behind the scenes shot from the studio, taken by my 8-year old daughter and assistant :)
And for a final bonus, here is a contact sheet to show the finished product. Pure gorgeousness! What do you think?
You can follow Tolga on Facebook.
Kurt Seyt & Shura English fan page on Facebook.
Kurt Seyt & Shura English official web site.
-Pamira
Pamira Bezmen Photography nominated for Best of Essex Photographer | Vote and support CASA
I cannot contain my excitement that Best of Essex now has a photography category. I've been requesting one for years, and it's here! Pamira Bezmen Photography is nominated for Best Photographer!
With your love and support, this dream can come true. Will you please vote for Pamira Bezmen Photography?
You can click on the photo below or directly go to this link. Please vote only once. You can also feel free to leave a review if you like.
As a Thank You, we will enter all voters in a drawing for a complimentary photo-shoot. The winner will be announced in October, 2019.
This year, Suburban Essex is teaming up with CASA of Essex County. CASA stands for "Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children" and it is a non-profit organization whose mission is to find safe homes for foster children. I have volunteered for them in the past and I sincerely support and applaud their cause. Every vote cast goes to support CASA, and helps make the future brighter for a child in foster care.
Please take a moment to vote and support this invaluable cause.
You can also visit CASA to learn more about and support their mission.
THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for supporting my business and for helping me raise awareness and funding for CASA!
Love,
- Pamira
Introducing Curl Power Kids | by Pamira Bezmen Photography
Curl Power Kids is a new brand with a serious purpose. Founded by my long-time client and friend Heather Carter, Curl Power Kids is a unique collection of dolls, apparel and accessories that reflect a wide range of skin tones and natural curls. All of the featured products are one-of-a-kind and designed by artists/artisans, celebrating the diverse beauty of all children and their individuality. Heather plans to grow the collection over time, curating offerings from various artists/artisans.
This is Heather, with her precious daughter Mackenzie, who is the inspiration for Curl Power Kids, with a collection of their hand-crafted dolls.
When Heather asked me to be her photographer for her brand, I jumped for joy!!! You know how much I adore and cherish the natural beauty of each child and believe in raising children with self-love and confidence that is rooted in their hearts and minds rather than their ability to conform to convention.
Heather's tag-line is spot on:
"Curl Power Kids celebrates the diverse beauty of all children and their unique qualities, empowering them to soar and reach their highest potential."
With the brand's mission and personality in mind, in addition to the studio shots, I shot each doll in a unique outdoor setting, showing personality in a fun and happy setting. I wanted to show how a child might bring her or his doll out to the backyard to play, rest, hang out, and simply share in on a child's every-day life as a companion.
Lillian, Carter, Ricky, Belle... Every doll has a specific name, skin color, hair style, and outfit. You can choose from 12 options for now.
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you can see the full collection of the doll line and other merchandise on the Curl Power Kids web-site
We did a model call, seeking kids with natural curls. We were overwhelmed with the love and support we got from the community. We are thankful that so many caring parents entered the model call with their gorgeous babes of diverse backgrounds and looks. Every single one was as unique and special as can be! Our only regret was that we could not pick them all.
The studio filled with kids who made fast friends with each other, and so did the parents. It's amazing how we have a tendency to immediately connect with one another from a place of love when we come together for a mutual cause and a shared outlook on humanity. We celebrated the beauty of diversity during the shoots, while the moms and I could not stop ourselves from going "ooooo" and "uuuuuu" at the sight of the children...
The world is definitely a more beautiful place because of our diversity, and I am so very honored to be a part of this brand's story.
Below, you can see some behind the scenes shots from the photo-shoot and some final images... I will also be sharing more finished portraits of our models in the coming weeks.
Please stop by the Curl Power Kids website and check out what they do and the custom products they sell. The web-site will also be updated with photos of our models later this month.
Here is a sneak peek from the model shoots...
Behind the scenes, making friends...
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Heather was featured in O Magazine in the June, 2019 issue, where the article focused on her journey as an entrepreneur. She is scheduled to have a follow-up interview in August, 2019.
I wish Curl Power Kids and Heather all the best on this journey. I am excited to see how this brand will grow in time.
If you are an artist or artisan with creations that would fit their mission, feel free to reach out to Heather.
If you would like professional portraits like those I made for Heather, for your family or your business, you know where to find me. e-mail Pamira
Love,
-Pamira
In Loving Memory of Bre | by Pamira Bezmen Photography
My then 5-year old daughter and I got lost one day, returning from a shopping excursion. We ended up on the long route back home. My daughter was starving and I had no clue where we were, but luckily we spotted a nice-looking pizza place along the road and pulled in. And there she was! With her piercing eyes, silvery blond hair, and beautiful, warm smile.
I loved her the moment I saw her. I felt a connection with her and all I wanted was to photograph her.
Although I'm an outgoing person, I had never gone up to anyone and invited her to my studio before. But I pulled my courage together and did it anyway. I wasn't sure as to the right things to say, and I didn't want to come across as being creepy, so I just said the honest truth the way it was going through my head and my heart. On our way out once lunch was done, I walked up to her and said:
"Thank you so much for taking such good care of us. You have such a warm, beautiful smile, and you are absolutely gorgeous. I'm a professional photographer. I would LOVE to photograph you if you'd be interested in that."
I gave her my card. It made my day when she said "Yes".
We had a beautiful photo-shoot together. We chatted and laughed. Bre was a genuinely kind-hearted person. It was my honor to have met her and to have had the chance to photograph her. We made plans for future photo-shoots and talked about her someday working with me as a hair and make-up artist.
Last night I found out in tears that Bre left us so very young and joined the angels. My heart aches for her family and friends. I send them all my love and I pray for Bre in heaven. May she always be wrapped in eternal love and light. May all her earthly worries be gone and done. May God give peace and patience to the hearts of those that mourn her.
I wanted to dedicate this post to beautiful Bre and her family, so that they may always remember her as the happy, beautiful and strong Bre that I met.
Good-bye, beautiful girl! Thanks for coming into my life. I will never forget that beautiful smile at the pizza place. See you later. Love you!
-Pamira
