Feeling “blah” this Wednesday? Erase it with some beauty of the past…
Vintage photo by Nina Leen
Harper’s Bazaar Cover, 1950
Swimwear ad for Joset Walker, 1952
There, isn’t the “blah” removed?
Popularity: 1% [?]
June 18th, 2010
The Roundup: Weekly Happenings
Another week has come and gone. I hope you made the most of it. I’m certainly looking forward to the weekend, are you? Well before the weekend gets to start, I am providing the weekly blogosphere roundup. Enjoy!
Did you know that unfriend was the word of 2009? Me either. But if you’re reading this blog right now, then you probably live in a world where social media is a part of your every day life. And there’s no problem with that, social media has become a very important tool for networking, keeping in touch, advertising and more. However, sometimes it can become something bad, like a tool for creeping (word of 2010?) on your ex-boyfriend or unhealthy things of the like. The Relationship Diva happened to write a blog about social media and the benefits of the unfriending button. Check it out.
So Gisele Bundchen has returned to the runway after she and Tom Brady welcomed their baby Benjamin into the world. Congrats, Gisele. You still look great.
If you’re just down for some great photography, Kate Bellm’s to be exact, then check out a photo collection here.
So, here at Handbag Heaven, we’ve told you what we keep in our handbags. We’ve told you what you should keep in your handbags. And we’ve supplied the handbags. But in case you wanted more along these lines, check out what is in stylist/designer Lori Goldstein’s bag.
Happy weekend!
Popularity: 1% [?]
June 8th, 2010
From the Photo Studio: Using Creative Resources for the Courtney Folded Bag
Our Courtney Folded Bag is one that is full of possibilities. With two straps and an optional fold-over top the ways to carry this bag are seemingly endless.
Since my job as a photographer is to highlight this bag and it’s many angles and options, I had to get creative because a front, angle, side, back, and inside shot would in no way show this bags versatility. So, with the help of Photoshop and a mannequins torso, I was able to create an alternative way to portray this bags many carrying options.
Here are three of my favorite ways to carry the Courtney Folded Bag:
1. Shoulder Bag: This is obvious. The Courtney Folded Bag is a great shoulder bag. However, here’s where they Courtney becomes special: this bag can be carried as a large hobo bag, or folded into a messenger bag. The versatility of this bag is such that it takes a simple shoulder bag and turns it into two completely different looks.
2. Under-Arm Bag: While this bag is rather large, it can still be folded over and used as an under-arm bag. This brings a very chic and polished look to this bag. Tip: When carrying the Courtney as an under-arm bag, consider leaving the short strap on it to accommodate for an easy transformation to a bag that sits neatly on the crook of your arm.
3. Cross-body Bag: I love a good cross-body bag. I like to consider it the modern-day fanny back because it leaves you absolutely hands free. However, unlike a fanny pack, the Courtney Folded Bag turns your look into one of casual elegance when styled as a cross-body bag.
Sometimes photography requires you to think outside of the box to get the best angle, lighting, or in this case to show versatility of a product . Don’t be afraid to be creative and step out of your comfort zone. Be resourceful and stretch your artistic sources as far as they’ll go.
Happy creating!
Popularity: 2% [?]
May 12th, 2010
From the Photo Studio: 4 Secrets for Taking your Photography from Amateur to Professional
Handbag photography… It may look fancy but I have some easy secrets to take your pictures from amateur to professional in just 4 steps.
Here are my secrets:
- You might be wondering how I get the handles to stand up straight. Here’s my answer: I have a helper…and my helper has fishing line.
- Stuff the bags with tissue paper. This helps fill the bags out and also helps the viewer imagine what the bag will look like when they fill it with their personal items.
- Show the bag at every angle. I shoot front, angle, side, back, and inside. Make sure there are no surprises and that everything is shown. If there is a strap, show it. If there’s an interesting detail, show it.
- Edit your pictures: Even the best product photograph could use a little touch up. Take the time to remove all flaws and brighten the background. This is a digitally enhanced world. Embrace it.
Now with these tips in mind I’m going to show you a shot of the Devon Convertible Clutch sans my 4 secrets. I’m nervous. I feel like I’m about to show you a picture of myself without makeup. 
Well there it is. It’s a great bag but lacking all of the luster without my 4 steps. The background is dreary and distracting, the handles are dragging and with just this one angle I can’t even begin to imagine what the rest of the bag looks like. After viewing this image I’m left with these questions: Are there studs on the back? Does this bag come with an alternative strap? What does the inside look like? Relax. Just add steps 1-4 and…
Viola! You have an irresistible bag with every angle, detail, and strap highlighted to its fullest glory and all of your questions are answered!
Product photography is all about making a product appealing but it doesn’t have to be difficult. If you plan to embark on some handbag photography, keep these tips in mind. You’ll end up with simple and professional pictures that are sure to impress and bring light to the positives of your product.
Popularity: 1% [?]
April 16th, 2010
From the Photo Studio: Meet Photographer Sara
Let me introduce myself. I’m Sara. I’m a lover of fashion, art, and candy. I’m an avid photographer, photographing anything and everything…which brings me to my current gig: resident photographer for Handbag Heaven.
Shooting has changed drastically for me since coming on board at Handbag Heaven. I now shoot in an environment completely controlled by myself, my subjects no longer move or blink, and while some photographers are concerned with shadows on faces, I’m concerned with handbag handles.
One of the best parts of this job is checking out all of the amazing bags. I’ve pretty much started a wish list and it’s bound to get lengthy…occupational hazard.
Chelsea Envelope Clutch
1. Chelsea Envelope Clutch
This bag is easy to carry underarm or by hand
and fits right into my hassle-free lifestyle.
Remember, you don’t have to be fancy to carry a clutch.
My philosophy: Every day is clutch-worthy.
Sami Quilted Handbag
2. Sami Quilted Handbag
The Sami is extraordinarily chic and classic.
It’s begging me to take it home.
Vintage Thick Flat Wallet
3. Vintage Thick Wallet
This wallet doubles as a clutch and can fit
my daily necessities: cards, cash, keys and candy.
The best part: I can take it shopping,
then toss it in my camera bag when shooting.
You’ll be hearing a lot from me in the future. And you should be as excited as I am.
Popularity: 1% [?]
