Jana Cruder Photography + Motion Blog ©2012

JIM BURBA & BOB HAYES

2012-01-13T09:45:00.000-08:00

I was commissioned to create PR photos for Jim Burba and Bob Hayes of BHN of southern CA for their new 2012 publicity push. Above is one of my images that ran in Hotel Business Magazine.

They were an absolute blast to photograph and we really made some great images that captured their energy and partnership.

Behind the Scenes with American Choppers by Jana Cruder

2011-12-19T12:24:00.000-08:00

I was commissioned to shoot portraits + event coverage for the bike build off on AMERICAN CHOPPERS LIVE on the DISCOVERY CHANNEL 12/6/11

Photos courtesy of: Paul Mcelvey

KORE Swim by Jana Cruder

2011-12-02T10:12:00.000-08:00

Watch out swim wear world! Kore Swim launching Dec 01,2011 premieres their 2012 collection. I was commissioned by Jessica & Nicole Tracy to create the campaign and brand for their launch of swim line KORE swim. Jamie of Wilhelmina Los Angeles was chosen as their poster girl! She was an absolute pro and pleasure to work with. We shot at the Tracy Family estate in Orange County, Ca. I really enjoyed the challenge and collaboration between designer Jessica Tracy and myself. They knew exactly what they wanted and I helped them to bring it to life. Enjoy the one minute fashion film and look book campaign images.

Photographer: Jana Cruder
Model: Jamie Ridge Wilhelmina
Hair & Make up: Whitney Urichuk & Jeff OneLuv Agency
Client: KORE Swim
Digital Tech: Haoyuan Ren
Assistant: Alyssa Barajas

Vegas Rated Video

2011-12-02T09:26:00.000-08:00

Check out this beautiful video featuring the launch of Vegas Rated Magazine that I shot the cover for! There are also snippets of the DJ to Gentleman story I photographed and I make my own cameo!

Isabelle Mercier featured in Chatelaine by Jana Cruder

2011-12-01T11:27:00.000-08:00

Isabelle Mercier was a joy to photograph for her feature in Chatelaine. A former lawyer who now rules the poker tables. I love that I get the opportunity to meet and photograph strong women!

BTS - Video from COMPLEX magazine Shoot with Lyndsy Fonseca

2011-11-18T17:32:00.000-08:00

O wow, I just found this video!
Check it out this is from my shoot for COMPLEX with Lyndsy Fonseca.

MONSTERS by Jana Cruder

2011-10-29T06:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from Jana Photo!

I had the privilege of creating with the talented folks at OneLuv Agency to produce these killer monster images. Whitney and her team are immensely talented and such a blast to work with! I always have a great time collaborating with them!

Have a happy and safe Halloween!

Rated Magazine Cover and Fashion feature by Jana Cruder

2011-09-07T09:47:00.000-07:00

RATED MAGAZINE - COVER FASHION SHOOT by Jana Cruder from Jana Cruder on Vimeo.
Vegas Rated Magazine's first issue just hit the NATIONAL news stands. I had the honor of photographing the cover and this denim fashion story. It was an absolute pleasure to work with the team at Vegas Rated, what a a great group of individuals! Be sure to any airport stores & magazine stands and pick up your copy today! Also check out the behind the scenes video.

From DJ to Gentleman by Jana Cruder

2011-08-23T17:20:00.000-07:00

This was an amazing shoot, I was so pleased to meet and photograph such notable music industry professionals.

These Dj's have been spinning great beats since I was in high-school & people still line up to see them every weekend!

They all were fun and really easy going and dressed to impressed by STITCHED custom mens suits.

TOP DOCTOR by Jana Cruder

2011-08-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

I recently had the pleasure of photographing two remarkable doctors for Desert Companion magazine. An article featuring Top Doctors recently highlighted several doctors that deserve the recognition. Dr. Joseph Adashek an OB/ GYN specializing in high risk pregnancies and Dr. Nicola Spirtos a Gynecologic Oncologist were two of the doctors featured that I had the privilege of meeting and photographing. Both breaking ground in their area of expertise treat their patients like royalty. It was an honor to meet them both, be sure to pick up a copy of Desert Companion to learn more about these wonderful individuals.

A Man About Potsdam Mens Fashion in Germany

2011-07-11T12:57:00.000-07:00

This was a dream come true for me! Shooting mens fashion in Germany! I pre-scouted the location the day before and it was pouring down rain with a forecast to rain the entire week we were in Germany.

I figured I wouldn't fight the rain and find a way to incorporate that into the shoot. Well on shoot day the clouds stopped weeping and we had not one drop of rain all day. The cloudy sky made for dramatic

inspirations for the shoot. The models Henrik and Ferdinand were perfect. Lisa & Lisa rocked it with wardrobe and makeup, and Aeon was a champ driving in a foreign country! I chose Potsdam because of its

fairytale like setting and allure of the palaces of Potsdam made for a fabulous setting for a fashion shoot. The designers in Berlin are really making art and pushing limits of fashion in my opinion. Lisa of Fier was able to

get some amazing fashions to shoot. Here is a link to her post from our shoot. http://www.fiermanagement.com/post/4183789052/adayinpostdam

I've posted this to my website under editorial to view more please visit janacruderphoto.com

Hair/MUA: Lisa Zeitler of Basics Claassen & Co. GMBH

Stylist: Lisa Filippini of Fier Management

Models: Ferdinand & Henrik of Mocaa Models Berlin

Photo Assistant: Aeon Jones

A very special thanks to A. Maren Herzog!

Oscar Goodman in SEVEN Magazine by Jana Cruder

2011-07-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

I spent the morning with mayor Oscar Goodman on his last day in office as mayor of Las Vegas after a 12 year run. We enjoyed time chatting about his experiences while in office. I was thankful to have the opportunity to be able to photograph someone who has put such a finger print on Las Vegas.

Jana Cruder partners with R+W for Summerlin Lifestyle shoot!

2011-05-27T17:26:00.000-07:00

I recently teamed up with R+W Advertising to create lifestyle portraits for Summerlin an upscale community in Las Vegas. The goal for this shoot was to show the " Life " of a Summerlin resident and why people want to move there. We shot for three days with a wonderful collaboration of hair & make up artists, models, and crew! I created video and stills for this campaign and soon will post the video portion to this shoot. This was created for Billboard & Regional magazine and newspaper advertisements as well as the client's website. 21 talent, 3 shoot days, 7 locations and 12 crew members. Produced by Jana Photography & assistant producer Janis Hansen. I am so excited about the outcome of these images and what a wonderful partnership with R+W. Keep a look out in Summerlin for billboards and print ads with these images.

Military Spouse Cover by Jana Cruder

2011-05-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

I jumped on the opportunity to shoot this for Military Spouse Magazine. I was referred to the editor by a friend in town. They had an idea for a road trip story & My love of road trips + appreciation for the sacrifices our Military families make really made this project a win - win in my eyes.

The magazine featured the Military Spouses of Nellis Air Force Base in North Las Vegas, NV and the story was about getting away for mini weekend vacations with the kids or a trip with girlfriends. So we went and explored Lake Mead recreational area. The ladies they chose to feature are all real Military Spouses. Some had active duty husbands who worked at Nellis Base & other had husbands who were actively serving overseas. One woman had a young baby a few months old and her husband was shipped off to serve in Afghanistan. This shoot was special for many reasons, this gave the girls a change to do something really different for the day. With the kids at sitters they were able to enjoy the pampering and attention by the hair and makeup professionals as well as enjoy each other company and meet new friends. We went out for a day trip, shot a few different locations and we're planning a issue release BBQ celebration with everyone soon.

MAD HATTER featured in American Salon Magazine

2011-04-28T15:23:00.000-07:00

(I did not shoot the cover)

The Mad Hatter shoot I did for SEVEN Magazine was recently featured in April's issue of American Salon. I was able to team up with the talented Marshall Vanlerland and Kelly Cardenas of Kelly Cardenas Salon Las Vegas for this shoot. What a great collaboration, I'm excited these images are getting so much attention. Grab your copy of American Salon Magazine and check out the feature!

Spring Fashion featured in SEVEN Magazine by Jana Cruder

2011-04-19T10:38:00.000-07:00

Spring is all about new starts, fresh, bright colorful fashion! I got the cover of SEVEN Mag this month! We decided to take a fun, playful take on this shoot. We ventured out to the sand dunes to create these images. Stephanie was a phenomenal model to work with, she had a special energy, and jumped all day! Attaching a model to a parachute creates an interesting experience! I had a fantastic team on this shoot that rocked it! Here are the images featured in SEVEN Magazine.

Make up: Whitney Urichuk OneLuv Agency
Hair: Jeffrey Knaggs OneLuv Agency
Stylist: Nicole Chandler
Digital Retouching: Haoyuan Ren

MIKOH Swimwear for Orange Coast Magazine by Jana Cruder

2011-04-19T09:58:00.000-07:00

I recently had the privilege of photographing Oleema & Kalani Miller the creative duo behind MIKOH Swimwear. These two young, successful sisters talents compliment one another and they are doing big things with their swimwear company in the OC and around the world. Here is the tear sheet from April's Orange Coast Magazine. It was an absolute pleasure working with these sweet, vibrant young women!

This Is A Photo Show

2011-04-15T22:30:00.000-07:00

This is a photo blog will be participating in the Lucie Foundation's Month of Photography in Los Angeles (MOPLA). Here is a link with the piece that will be featured in the show, Jana Cruder 'Summer' !

COLLECTING FACES coming to a completion

2011-03-31T21:29:00.000-07:00

I've had an ongoing personal photo project for over two years now. These types of projects are efforts in love, commitment and vision. I call it " Collecting Faces " documenting all of the faces that walk through my door on any given First Friday. Sometimes I shoot them and other times they create their own image. So far, I've collected about 6,000 faces and now it's nearing it's end. My goal is to have these images reproduced and displayed on building fronts throughout the Arts District. We've decided to get our local community involved and engage their involvement by asking them to purchase a tile that will take over the facade of the building and become a permanent installation in this downtown arena. First we must raise the awareness and some funds and soon my building will be covered permanently with faces of all those who have participated.

I'm so excited for the potential of this project, stay tuned!!!! This is going to be a fun one! ~ Jana

Chumlee & Big Hoss by Jana Cruder for Inked Magazine

2011-03-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of creating images for Inked Magazine featuring the stars of television show Pawn Stars for Inked Magazine. We spent the day outside and also in the shop with these two characters. They have a loyal following as you can see from the behind the scenes images and video. It was an absolute pleasure working with Chumlee and Big Hoss, be sure to check out the spread in Inked Magazine's March issue.

Photography: Jana Cruder

Featuring: Austin 'Chumlee' Russell and Corey 'Big Hoss' Harrison

A Musical Muse by Jana Cruder for Seven Magazine

2011-03-15T16:11:00.000-07:00

I was extremely excited to work on this shoot, it was something that I havent done before! This shoot presented the challenges of using lighting that would make the body paint pop and also set building challenges. Each body painting took 7 hours to create, and we had each model on set for half an hour. We are extremely happy with the out come of the images. Working with the make up pros from One Luv, these talented artists took inspiration from a variety of Celine Dion songs to create a new type of imagery. During a two-day shoot we worked here at

S P A C E studios to create these dynamic images.

Photography: Jana Cruder

Producer: Whitney Urichuk for One Luv Agency

OneLuvAgency.com

Retoucher: Haoyuan Ren

Prop StylistL Randi Garrett with Naakiti Floral and Design

Body Painting: Jennifer Karsten, Jennifer Ashton, Lijha Stewart and Jasmine Ringo for One Luv Agency

Hair Stylist and Wig Designer: Jeff Knaggs

ModelsL Megan Bostwick/ Best Agency and Stephanie Pearson/ No Ties Management

Shot on location at Space Studios

MAD HATTER by Jana Cruder for SEVEN Magazine Editorial

2011-02-03T08:28:00.000-08:00

The glam team and I had so much fun creating this high end polished luxury vibe for Hair Wars winner Marshall Van Ierland's award winning coutur hats made our of hair. Great attention was piad to hair, makeup and wardrobe to convey the concept of a contempory take on the Alice & Wonderland's Mad Hatter. All effects are in camera using a fog machine and my special lighting ;-)

Photographer Jana Cruder

Makeup Whitney Urichuk, One Luv Agency

Hair and Hat Design Marshall Van Ierland, Kelly Cardenas Salon

Hair Design Assistant Natalie Burke

Wardrobe Styling Nicole Chandler

Model Nicole, No Ties Management San Diego

Retouching Haoyuan Ren

Shot on location at S P A C E Studios Las Vegas

Special thanks to Gaia Flowers and Brother’s Beauty Supply

SEVEN MAG SHOOT

My day of giving back - "Something to Remember" Dec 04, 2010

2010-12-28T21:17:00.000-08:00

CANCER IMPACTS EVERYONE at some point in their life. This is a cause I'm very passionate about!

In May of this year, I lost my mother to a 22 year battle with Breast Cancer. That event has changed my life. After her death, I was finding a need to do something, help the cause in some way, the fight against cancer. I looked for ways to become involved in a local community where my efforts could directly and immediately help those who are supporting a loved one through the fight. In searching for a way to give back, it became apparent to me that the most important thing she left behind for me were her writings and our family photos. Every year, growing up in Greensburg, PA. we had an annual family portrait at Olan Mills. That was the local portrait studio. I remember she paid a small fortune for those photos, but I'm so grateful she thought it important enough to do year after year no matter how sick she was. Those portraits I cherish!

I realized that I have a true gift, the gift of photography. I can give that back, to families and give them " Something to Remember"

I worked closely with the Janet Sue Mason Foundation in Las Vegas and arranged a family portrait donation day.
With the help of the Comprehensive Cancer Clinic of NV on Sunset/Twain we were able to schedule and photograph 21 families who are actively in treatment for Cancer.

Some families, have never had a family portrait while others haven't been photographed professionally since their wedding.

The day was full of emotion, tears, laughter and a true sense of gratefulness.

I am exceptionally grateful for all the donations of time, talent, space and equipment that made this special event happen.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered and all those families who participated.

Thank you for giving me Something to Remember and for making the shoot the most rewarding thing I've ever done.

Thank you to all my supporters and volunteers,
Studio J - Eric Jamison, Hunter & Crew, Haouyan Ren, Cat Savello , Whitney and all her hair and makeup artists at ONE LUV, Tiffany Brown, Crystal Reid, Christine Contini, Michael Beckner, Janet Sue Mason Foundaton, JR Lighting, Chef Mayra, Aeon Jones, my father Ron Cruder,
Gina Gaven Tribal Minds, Heidi Kyser Copywriter and a very special thank you to Chris Jordan of Sugar Effect Video and Multimedia for donating his time to make a video of this event so we can raise awareness.

Vdara Advertising Campaign

2010-11-01T10:38:00.000-07:00

Check out my latest shoot for Vdara, City Center's new exclusive, smoke free, non-gaming resort property. More images from the shoot can be seen from my website soon. Special thanks to: SK+G and my styling team for helping me knocking this one out of the ballpark.

VIDEO - THE MAKING OF A FASHION SHOOT

2010-10-27T07:54:00.000-07:00

Video by Wild Collective

Behind the Scenes of me in action ;-)

Enjoy~

Jana

Check out my CONTRIBUTOR page for SEVEN Magazine

2010-10-19T11:25:00.000-07:00

Special thanks to Heidi Kyser, local freelance writer for writing such a great lil blurb on me.
;-) Jana

Kaleidoscope Eyes for VEGAS SEVEN

2010-09-30T17:46:00.000-07:00

I GOT COVER BABY!

I recently shot this fashion story for VEGAS SEVEN. This was another great opportunity for me because I had complete creative control. Everything from the location to makeup to styling. Our model Anna Didenko of Pinkerton Model & Talent was a rock star and a pleasure to work with. Hair & Makeup by Whitney of One Luv, wardrobe styling by Kate Riney. Photographed on location at Studio 9 in Los Angeles.

Check it out at VEGAS SEVEN.

Thank you VEGAS SEVEN for the opportunity!

Assistant: Jennifer Jane
Photo retouching by Ara Kotchian
Makeup by Whitney Urichuk, oneluvagency.com, using Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
Hair extensions by Sinpretty
Styling by Kate Riney, Kate-Riney.com
Model: Anna Didenko with Pinkerton Model & Talent in Los Angeles
Shot on location at Studio 9 in Los Angeles
Special thanks to Joseph Morelli, Sharon Taylor and Ali Lazar

Portrait of EMILY GOODMAN by Jana Photography

2010-09-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

I had the honor of photographing the beautiful Emily Goodman! She was great to work with and her home couldn't be more beautiful.

Here are some images that didn't make the magazine.

Her husband loved the photos so much he made it a point to contact me and order some prints for their home. What a great compliment.

Back to Black - retail fashion

2010-09-15T13:59:00.000-07:00

Retail Fashion Shoot

Photography: Jana Cruder
Hair: Kimberli Lopez @ One Luv Agency
Makeup: Whitney @ One Luv Agency
Wardrobe Styling: Joseph Morelli @ Barneys NY
Model: Ashton LA models

Behind the scenes with Clay Guida

2010-09-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

I recently shot MMA fighter Clay Guida for INKED MAGAZINE.
I'll post the images from that shoot when it publishes. Until then, I wanted to throw out this image of Clay & I.

He was such a nice guy.. I know that might not be his MO while in the ring fighting .. but in person and to me he was an amazing subject to photograph.

Plus you gotta love his hair!

COVER & FASHION SPREAD for 944 Aug 2010 | MUSCLE CANDY

2010-08-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

ROMAN HOLIDAY for 944 Magazine

2010-07-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

In April I shot this for 944 magazine. This was a great shoot for me mostly because I had complete creative control and the help of a Creative Director Robin Milgrim of RR Advertising in Las Vegas. It was great to work with her on the concept and direction for the shoot. Our model Thalita D'Olveria of NEXT Miami was stunning and such a great sport. I worked directly with Yvonne Coffey of NEXT management in Miami to select a perfect model for the concept. Hair by Kimberli Lopez & Makeup by Whitney of One Luv, wardrobe styles by Alex Brown. Photographed on location and with the help of Caesars Palace in Las Vegas!

Thalita, was perfect! Her accent was a bonus! The whole team worked together to produce a beautiful fashion story. Please check out more from this shoot on my website & keep your eyes out for the behind the scenes B-Roll to follow as soon as we get it done. Keep on shooting!!!! Jana

NEW Portfolio on DRIPBOOK

2010-06-28T16:25:00.000-07:00

Cool I'm a Fine Artist !!! Opening of my show @ BWG

2010-06-23T18:28:00.001-07:00

In May I had my first proper legit solo fine art exhibit @ the Brett Wesley Gallery in Las Vegas. I got tons of press including the NPR publication Desert Companion, LV Weekly and many more. I sold 7 pieces opening weekend! That is a first in the gallery history. It was impressive to see my work so beautifully presented, framed and respected. Here are a few snaps from the opening. You can check out the complete shot on the galleries website here Brett Wesley Gallery

I'm currently working on my next fine art piece... its a work in progress ... and still seeking another space for this body of work to show in NY and LA.

Here's a link to all the photos from the grand opening night PHOTOS

Totally grateful!!!!! How exciting!
Love ~ Light ~ Life
Jana

SWEET DISSARY - SEVEN MAGAZINE

2010-04-30T16:08:00.001-07:00

Finally getting around to posting this. I shot this for SEVEN months ago.
Here are the finals.

I had a lot of fun with this one.

Here is the link to the article online. SEVEN
However the best ones didn't run in the magazine, so I put them here for you to see.

Enjoy the color!

Jana

Actress Lyndsy Fonseca for COMPLEX magazine

2010-04-16T15:51:00.000-07:00

I shot Actress Lyndsy Fonseca for Complex magazine on location in Beverly Hills @ the Crescent Hotel.

She was amazing & the shoot turned out great.

You can see more images on my website Jana

or on the COMPLEX Magazine website

Enjoy!!!!

SWEET PEA and an Illustration from Marius Valdes

2010-03-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

I woke up Tuesday morning and found my newly acquired SWEET PEA plant saying "help me" in high pitched voice... I thought to myself I wonder what that would look like as an illustration.

So I sent it to my friend the talented Marius Valdes and this is what he sent back!!!

Thank you Marius!!! I'm always thinking advertising... so some tag limes might be Feeling the credit crunch ??? Miss you baby!! Exhausted ??? ( Try Sleeping ) What are some tag lines you can think of ??? Keep Creating! Love ~ Life ~Light Jana

I LOVE SHOOTING PEOPLE

2010-03-22T18:19:00.000-07:00

Just a quick street grab shot as I call it. I couldn't help it. I was in San Francisco on my way to see John Butler Trio @ the Great American Music Hall... when she walked past me...
I saw her... instantly I thought wow .. I must make a portrait of her.

She is so unique, she is beautiful..
I stopped turned around and chased after her.

THANK YOU !!!! I don't even know your name San Fran.

Shooting Jermaine Dupri - An Editorial assignment

2010-02-09T11:12:00.000-08:00

I was contracted to photograph Jermaine Dupri for an editorial that came out last month. The location was a club in Las Vegas. My assistant and I arrived and scouted the location. I stretched to come up with a great shot in that club... after all its a club typically not meant to be lit... and I wanted something a little different. I saw this as an opportunity to shoot what the magazine suggested and then to use my time with the talent to create something a little different.

I shot in the club, 3 shots that were interesting and showed the "club" then I grew some balls and asked Jermaine if I could follow him to his room. I explained that the images we created in the club were great and perfect... but what I felt would be really interesting would be to shoot him on the fly.. in the hallways, elevator and on the way back to his room.
He said well we're all here why not...

I had about 10 minutes ... I ran behind him and followed him to his room... once we got there .. he let me shoot him inside ...

15 minutes later I was back downstairs looking at the back of the camera and packing up equipment....

I sent the editor the images and said ... here is what we did.. but I'm loving the last ones... the gritty ones, the ones where we were getting a glimpse of something a little telling.
They loved it and ran it!!
ROCK ON!!!!!

When I was in photo school and after that assisting top photogs ... I always obvserved the shooting for the client and the shooting for yourself..
MORE TIMES THEN NOT THEY WILL CHOOSE THE IMAGES you SHOOT for YOURSELF!

Jana

COVER for STYLE MAGAZINE WHH HOOO!

2010-01-15T08:29:00.001-08:00

TOTALLY STOKED! WORKED WITH SIMON & GOT THE COVER!!!!!
WAY to go team!

Shooting the "RAT Wrangler" for Ladies Home Journal

2010-01-14T15:35:00.000-08:00

I photographed Cathe Jones known as the "Rat Wrangler" for Ladies Home Journal back in Sept. Sometimes things take a while to publish. This was an interesting shoot, when you throw animals into the mix it takes on a whole new form!!!! They really do what they want to do weather you like it or not. With these furry little buggers well that included leaving little puddles and droppings wherever they went.... Big kudos to Cathe for being such a great sport as well as to my crew for laughing through it all!

Here's to rolling with it!
Jana

PICS from the PAST not your typical Las Vegas Landscapes

2010-01-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

I found these in my archives as I'm doing my yearly backups. These are from 2006 I shot of Las Vegas. I really love them and think they would look great huge!!!! Of course what photographer doesn't think their work will look great huge! I should shoot more taking off and landing from airports!!!!!

2009 WHAT AN AMAZING YEAR!

2009-12-30T18:17:00.000-08:00

2009 for me held some pretty amazing milestones in my career as a freelance photographer. I've been so honored this year to create some amazing images that will push my career forward! I've met and worked with some truly talented individuals and visionaries and together collaborated on some truly amazing pieces of art! I've opened up a studio that has become a hub of creative activities, had my first major gallery exhibition and hired my first full time studio manager & assistant.
I'm continuing to grow and great clients to my client list.
2010 you will hold some amazing marvels I don't even know about!!!! Looking forward to it! Here's to a great 2009 and lets get this party started 2010!
Love Light Life
J

I SHOT Marg Helgenberger

2009-12-08T17:20:00.001-08:00

LOOK A PRETTY PERSON ON WHITE! Imagine that!
I'm happy with this shot she looks great but it could of been so much more!

So she gave me 5 minutes ~ I was there set up and ready 2 hours ahead of time. Planning the shot, waiting anxiously, looking forward to the whole scenario. I set up two shots, one on white like the client wanted and then another environmental shot. Because one only gains access to sets like that ever so often that I had to make sure to get something else besides ... a celebrity on white out of it.
Being on the set of CSi was a photographers dream! So much cool stuff to play with in terms of props and set ups.

So I planned 10-20 shots on white and swing the camera around and shoot her sitting on the edge of the table ... in the interrogation room and voila we're done ... super quick...
Well that DIDN'T happen. She only gave me 5 minutes start to finish and when she walked in I told her what I was thinking and she and her PR rep said ok depending on time. Then as I was shooting her on white... I said "Lets switch scenes, I have this shot" Her rep spoke up and said, no that's all we're finished, and they left.

I was a little taken aback but not too much. In my experience around celebrities A-listers and others .... they do what they want ... when they want.

So whatever! I shot the set anyhow!!! Just w/o her in it.
I've also uploaded a pic of me holding the skeletons hand. Whoo hoo that was the highlight!
Here's to rolling with it and running into a wall sometimes...

COLLECTING FACES - V4

2009-12-07T15:13:00.000-08:00

I am truly passionate about people, and this project is continuing to evolve and grow. I anticipate additional cities and photo booths... we're in Collecting Faces V4 and have almost 2600 faces collected and counting.
Enjoy these selects from the most recent automatic portrait session @ S P A C E Studios.

AWESUMM!!!!!!! Experience Summerlin Campaign

2009-11-23T11:14:00.001-08:00

In September I was contracted by Scott Robertson of R+W Design to shoot the new campaign for
ExperienceSummerlin.com ... Their client "Summerlin" is an affluent community west of Las Vegas. The concept of the shoot was to shoot real people who were AWESUMM
since they lived in Summerlin.
I had about a week to pull this off. From casting to shooting to turning around final files.. time was a crunch for the campaign launch in Oct.

Images are online at ExperienceSummerlin.com as well as newspaper ad's and billboards.

I'm stoked since I actually got to see the billboard. Many times, I'll get billboards in cities I don't get to travel to while the billboard is up.

Now, I'm not sure if every photographer feels the same.. but there is something totally AWESUMM about seeing your image GIGANTIC and on the side of the road.

Thanks R+W it was such a fun shoot and looking forward to the next time.
Below are a few of the behind the scenes shots as well as the billboard shot and some tear sheets from the shoot.

I LOVE WHAT I DO!!!! IT SHOWS

THANK YOU PDN!!!!!!

2009-10-21T11:11:00.000-07:00

I'm very grateful for the mention in PDN. They included me in an article check it out " Editors Choice" . Karina Dearwood and I worked on a beautiful project for VEGAS magazine VEGAS Aces back in May and she was awesome enough to write about it and PDN chose to feature it on their Oct Editors Choice. Thank you PDN you ROCKED my day! Jana

Collecting faces

2009-10-09T15:03:00.000-07:00

For the grand opening of my studio space, I set up a photo booth to document all those who walked in the door. This is the second time I photographed people on a First Friday Art event.

The first time, I personally photographed everyone and I had no time to talk and mingle which is important.

So this time I automated the project. This is morphing into a longer term project, I'll edit and turn into a flip book someday ... great self promo piece..

Anyhow here is the video from the stills we put together.

Enjoy & let me know what you think.

Jana

GRAND OPENING!!!!! - THANK YOU !!!

2009-10-02T23:36:00.000-07:00

WOW THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO CAME OUT TONIGHT !!!! WHAT A TURN OUT ABOUT 300 + people!!!!
I am GRATEFUL!

Natalie Bass - September VEGAS Magazine

2009-10-01T07:10:00.000-07:00

Check out the images I did of Natalie Bass for the SEPT issue of Vegas Mag's new "MY STYLE" feature.
She was an absolute blast to photograph. Her style was elegant, simple and chic.

Enjoy ~
Jana

Jana Photography - Shoots MATT GOSS for 944 Magazine September

2009-09-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

I was honored to shoot Matt Goss for 944 Magazine September Fashion issue. We shot at The Palms Hotel in Las Vegas. This is a prime example for a shoot where everything came together spot on, my concept, the wardrobe, the location and the talent!

He was great to work with, we both collaborated on the shots to really push and get the best out of both of us. There is no doubting he knows what he's doing, he was a blast to work with. The images I'm very excited about, I've attached the tear sheet from the magazine as well as other shots I love that they didn't run. Special thanks to Melinda @944 for the opportunity to do the shoot!

Next time we'll get COVER!

Enjoy~
Jana

Jana Cruder shoots feature editorial for VEGAS magazine!!!!

2009-08-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

Check out this months VEGAS magazine. The cover is Usher photographed by Robert Ascroft a extreemely talented and totally awesome NYC celebrity photographer.

Flip through the mag and your get to the feature I shot of the VEGAS Aces. I worked closely with associate editor Karina Deerwood to pull this shoot off in a very short time on a tight budget.

We shot 5 Vegas Aces, Josh Strickland lead in Vegas PEEPSHOW, Sonny Barton of Rock & Roll Wines, Jason Demuth of Nexus 30, Yale Rowe Senior VP of The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and Ricardo Laguna a totally amazing Pro BMX Rider.

I was stoked that all our guys were very good looking, and when she came to me and told me about the feature idea and who I was going to be shooting I took a day to brainstorm and research. I came up with 3 very different concepts, that I felt would be a great story and feature for our Aces.

I've attached my concept sheet here. So you can see where my brain was.

I really liked all three of the concepts, I really pushed for concept B, a more playful documentaryesque approach with natural light, walking shots, with key VEGAS landmarks and the one the client loved went with was idea A, the nightclub playboy classed up a bit. Mostly in part to the availability of the location. We ended up shooting at LAX nightclub in the Luxor. With the help of my talented stylist Jessica Galindo we were able to pull some great class suites and gear for these gentleman and pull the theme off. Kudos to my team, Whitney Urichuk did the makeup and hair for One Luv Agency, Jess Galindo wardrobe stylist and Murbina my rocking producer.

I've attached my fave final shots!

As well as tear sheet. More can be seen on the NEW WORK section on my website.

Lets hear some feedback!
Jana

NYC trip 2009

2009-08-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

Every year, I head to NYC to meet with current clients, potential clients and drop off promotional materials to as many agencies as I possibly can. All in hopes of spreading my name to those who might get my visions and hire me to do what I do best... photograph people.

This year was a little different then previous years. The buzz of NYC was still there, the rush and the grind... but the photo industry was a little different. I experienced first hand many publications and agencies trying to do so much more with so much less. People have been laid off in swarms, budgets have been slashed and I've found my self in line with the big guns... the big name photographers are going after the same assignments I'm going after.

We're not in the soup line yet, but we're all a little closer then we would prefer to be. It makes us uncomfortable, and as a creative, makes us nervous.

We're in the assignment line, I couldn't imaging the pressure on the photo editors and art buyers, being bombarded with photographers looking for paid work. Key word PAID work!

All I can do is what we're all doing, marketing a lot and doing everything we can to keep our names out there in hopes that when thinks pick up we get considered and booked. It is harder then ever on photographers to make a living in our chosen field.

With rising competition, the everyone is a photographer syndrome, budget cuts, digital cameras, $1 stock photos, client ignorance and everything else associated with being a professional creative.... Rising insurance costs, digital work flow updates, camera updates, software creative suite pricing, ect. ect. ect. We're lucky to break even most times.

YES everyone can be a photographer and I encourage people to explore their creativity, but there is a difference between someone who picks up a camera for the 3rd time and takes an amazing shot and the experienced seasoned photographer who can pull off a 300,000 production and produce groundbreaking innovative ad concepts that push brands forward.

What I ask, are you going to pay for?

Here are some snapshot images from NY this past trip... in and around town. The sticker head people were photographed on my first trek to the HAMPTON'S.

Enjoy and keep pushing forward for what you are passionate about.
Jana

NEW BRANDING - Jana Photography

2009-07-17T14:39:00.000-07:00

Finally after months of revisions I'm happy to put it out there!!!!!
I decided to revamp and reposition my branding.

I worked closely with my great friend and amazingly talented designer Carly Hebert.
Together we worked to re-brand my look and feel. I've been in the business for some time now, about 6 years with the same logo and color scheme. When I first started out I needed to communicate to those who would be viewing my work that I was professional, and wanted my logo and branding and color scheme to say "PROFESSIONAL".

After all these years, and after fully pushing forward shooting full time. I felt it was important to really put my personality forward. I wanted my logo and branding to say "Jana" to be personable and reflect some characteristics of me and how I see the world.

The challenge was to create a branding scheme that would say Sunny, Fun, California, Bright and Personal. I think all of that was achieved in the new logo and branding of JANA PHOTOGRAPHY.

Together we created NEW
promo cards, business cards, stickers, logo, color scheme, email promo templates, letterhead and envelopes.

This branding has all been implemented into my website and all printed materials.
The feedback has been great, I'm looking forward to using this look for quite some time.

Let me know what you think!

SURFACE MAG Avante Guard Contest 2009

2009-07-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

I entered the Surface Magazine Avant Guard contest again this year.
What makes this year different then last year is the images I created to enter.
Hundreds of aspiring Fashion photographers enter every year. I'm sending out good energy in hopes that I win this year. It would be a dream come true to have recognition like this.

The contest winners get announced Aug 2, 2009

WISH ME LUCK!

V I S U A L - C O L L E C T O R

2009-07-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think of my self as a collector of personalities. This is one prime example of that.
I opened up my S P A C E to people to come in off the street during Las Vegas, First Friday Art event every 1st Friday of every month. What resulted was the start of a large personal project. To photograph everyone that walks through the door, print it out on a 4x6 and stick it up on the wall. Everyone after can oogle at the photos of everyone before them. Next month we'll put up all the photos from last month and start adding to it. I'll continue to add to this fluid installation until the wall is full. Here are a few selects from that 1st round of images.

Jana Cruder shoots for Grand Victoria Casino

2009-06-29T14:43:00.001-07:00

Check out these tear sheets, I recently shot these images for a new national ad campaign for Grand Victoria Casino. This was a really great shoot. I worked closely with the awesome creative team Amy Lockhart-Fehl, BC Ledoux and Terri Gibson from The Glenn Group in Reno, NV. I got the call on a Tuesday that the shoot was awarded to me and we needed to shoot by the following Thursday. That only gave us 6 business days to cast 20 models and produce this 2 day shoot. I pulled in a freelance producer Michelle Urbina in Las Vegas and together her, me and my team got to work. We didn't have time for a live casting which is what I always prefer it do if we can. So we worked with a bunch of local Las Vegas talent agents to pull digital portfolios of talent that could be submitted for this casting. We edited those down and sent links off to the client. Within 24 hours we had final models to book. We shot at Desert Ice Studios in Las Vegas and the feedback from the client is that their client GVC couldn't be happier.

Check out more tear sheets from this shoot on my website under the tear sheet section.

From real people to models, I love shooting people.

Have a great 4th of July!

JANA water ??? JANA Photo

2009-06-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

I had to put this up. A good friend of mine in Las Vegas Jessica Gallindo is an amazing stylist with a ton of connections. When she was in LA last she emailed me a iphone photo she took of a water bottle with my name on it. JANA water! Turns out she knows Dean the LA distributor for JANA water. One quick phone call and voila, Dean showed up yesterday at my studio with cases of JANA water for me. I think it is super exciting and I'll for sure have JANA water on my next photo shoot!

Working With Fashion Designer Selma Karaca

2009-06-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

In March when we shot the Barbie stories in the desert, I worked with fashion designer Selma Karaca in NYC. She was kind enough to send some of her fabulous creations. Her clothes made my visions come alive and they really fit the talent well! After the shoot she asked if she could put some of the images in her promotions. I loved the idea. Attached is the promo she made with my images. Thanks Selma, and I look forward to shooting with you again soon. Here is to returning the favor! ~ Love ~ Light ~ Life Jana

Photographers NEW LOGO - JANA

2009-06-05T10:09:00.001-07:00

Hello Friends,
I'm very pleased to show you my new logo.

I worked with designer Carly Hebert to come up with a new logo for me.
I wanted something that was more personality driven.

My old logo needed to communicate effectively who I was, what I did and that I'm professional.

That logo lasted 6 years.

I've come a long way in 6 years and it was time for a logo and branding that was more personality driven. Something that let clients know a little about me and allowed my personality to shine through, and a logo that says sun, fun, and Jana.

Something that said personality. After many revisions and almost 3 months of work, I think we've landed in the right spot.

I'm open for comments and suggestions. Let me know what you think.

Here's to re inventing yourself! Stay tuned for a web relaunch and new marketing materials.

Love ~ Light ~ Life
Jana

Don't just SURVIVE.. Now is the best time to G R O W !!!!!

2009-06-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

I've noticed that a lot of the information out there, a vast majority of the publications, news reports, blogs, discussions right now are all about how to SURVIVE in this economy.

You know what I say to that.

DON'T WANT TO JUST SURVIVE, WANT TO GROW!!!!

Here is where being optimistic comes in handy.

# 1. Shut off NPR (at least 2 days a week)
* This will help you tune out pessimists and limit the subscription to a global anxiety.... and tune into your inner voice... the voice inside saying I KNOW I CAN!

Yes things are tight.
Yes we're all low on CASH
Yes cash is king
Yes people are hurting

But is there anyway we can start looking at this recession as an opportunity?

That's what I've been doing.

I'm in a little different position then most. I'm a freelancer. I'm use to searching for my next meal constantly!

That's what I've always done and that is what I will always do.

In that journey I hope to grow as a creative, contribute to great campaigns and visually excel as a photographer as well as continue to make my living doing what I love.

Why am I so Optimistic.
Well, WHY NOT!
The grass is greener, lets face it. This recession will weed out a lot of competition.
SAD but true.

LETS LOOK AT SOME UPSIDES!

Commercial space is more affordable, people are more willing to do business on the buyers terms, weather its buying equipment or moving into a larger shooting space.
Clients are being squeezed, so they are looking for the best talent for their budgets and they are willing to look more ant new talent, or talent they've been aware of for a few years but just didn't have the reason to move them into the preffered photographer roster....
NOW they do, now they are willing to take a little bit more of a risk in hopes that we'll knock their socks off. This is a VERY good thing for me and many of my peers in photography. Lets face it ... we're all great photographers, but some clients can't afford to Pay Annie L. to shoot their editorials or ad campagins THEY DON'T have the 30 to 50K she demands. I don't know any photogrpaher who would turn down 25k to work with a large label and create some new work that will only get them more work. ITS THE BIGGER PICTURE.

Now not saying we should all undermine and undercut and low ball. I can't stand that! But there is room to negotiate ... even with clients. Negotiate a different usage, don't give them everything, but come to an agreement ... and stay in their budget. Chances are when things pick up again they'll re license and that's $ in your pocket.

I think the KEY POINT I want to put out there.

As a creative, as a photographer. Its time to think CREATIVELY in business.
I'm being more flexible, more creative in how I approach projects and still doing great work. While growing my business and picking up new clients.

KEEP POSITIVE - no one wants to add to their own greif and grumbles by listening to yours.

In the long run clients will appreciate it and you'll stay working through this all.

I'm GROWING and I will continue to do so.
SO WHY NOT NOW!!!!
NOW is a perfect time to do so.

One Quote keeping me going comes from June's issue of FAST COMPANY
" Creative people are basically this 50-50 blend of ego and insecurity," From an ego standpoint you think your hot shit, but really deep down when you go to bed at nightyou go, I don't know if I'm good enough. I'll try to make it better tomorrow. " by LEE CLOW - Global director of Media Arts TBWA/Worldwide

I LOVE SHOOTING PEOPLE !!! First Friday May - LAS VEGAS

2009-05-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

I love shooting people!!! I get so excited and inspired by watching people. Who doesn't ? Seriously, most people weather they admit it or not watch other people. First Friday in Las Vegas is a sensory overload for me. There are so many interesting people walking about, sometimes I just have to stop them and pull some aside and document. When I do this, it feels like I'm collecting evidence, or collecting and presenting moments.

Above are just some of the people I found interesting at First Friday outside The Arts Factory in VEGAS a few weeks ago.

Here's to the fascination we all have with watching others.

Love ~ Light ~ Life

JANA CRUDER Article in 944 Magazine April 2009

2009-05-01T13:09:00.000-07:00

Check it out 944 Magazine featured me in their VANTAGE POINT section of Aprils 944 magazine! Big thanks to Laura Mier who interview me and wrote the piece.

Thanks for the exposure 944!

Press releases do work, before my gallery opening of Characters from Concentrate in February I sent out 100's of Press releases to publication and mags nationwide.

944 picked up on it and came out to the show and interviewed me and decided to write an article about me and feature it in their April issue.

Below is the press release I sent.

LOS ANGELES PHOTOGRAPHER OPENS UP SPACE IN THE ARTS DISTRICT THE ARTS FACTORY | Las Vegas, NV Come see Jana Cruder exhibit works from her personal contemporary photography series “Characters from Concentrate” this Friday, February 06, 2009, 6-9pm @ THE ARTS FACTORY, Suite 130. Jana will be there in person to talk about her work and the art will remain on exhibit for the entire month of February. This Los Angeles based photographer recently opened up her second location in downtown Las Vegas, at the Arts Factory of 107 E. Charleston Boulevard, though she continues to serve the western U.S. markets of Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Las Vegas. She hopes with the aid of representation to reach larger markets such as Chicago and New York, eventually reaching her goal of shooting for a global clientele. Cruder brings a fresh and edgy perspective to her Las Vegas clients. Her work is often described as crisp, polished, and stunning. Her clients love her personality and appreciate her creativity, professional approach and solid execution. Trained at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY, Jana received a BFA in advertising photographic illustration from one of the most prestigious photography schools in the world. After graduation she resided in Pittsburgh, PA where she assisted local photographers, getting her feet wet in commercial photography. After a short stay of only a year, Jana relocated to Los Angeles, to open up shop in Manhattan Beach, CA There she hit the ground running working for CORBIS as a senior sales executive before going freelance to pursue her own shooting career. While in LA, Jana also assisted top photographers such as Warwick Saint, Patrick Holleck, Robert Ascroft and Klaus Thymann, as well as working on high-end productions through the well-known LA production company 3STAR productions, owned and operated by Jill Roy. While in LA she built her portfolio, established roots in the photo industry and made some solid connections that remain clients of her’s to this day, including Wells Fargo, Cristophe Salon of Beverly Hills, Obagi skin care and many more. “I've relocated to Las Vegas, for personal reasons, I’m very excited to be here and still operate and serve my clients in LA & SF & NYC. I’m looking forward to this town opening up to me and excited at the opportunities that lie ahead. “ ~ Jana Cruder

CREATING NEW ART - ALWAYS MAKE NEW IMAGES!!!!!

2009-04-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hutchinson and Reid: Keep making stuff. Never stop learning. Never stop trying new things. You are only as good as the last thing you made. Work with people that make you better.

I can't agree more with the saying above. As a creative it is our job to CREATE!

I created this with photos from a series I did with Carly and the Blue Balloon. I'm planning on continuing this in Las Vegas. Stay Tuned for more Blue Balloon.

Love ~ Light ~ Life
Jana

Natural Daylight Editorial shoot in Beverly Hills, CA with Brit & Cris

2009-04-27T17:14:00.001-07:00

I photographed Brit Suer of CRISTOPHE Salon of Beverly Hills in her home in Los Angeles, CA. The one thing I love most about living out west is the beautiful natural light out here!
I went to school in Rochester @ R.I.T. where we learned to light everything because we had to ... it was gray there and overcast all the time.

When I moved to California in 2003 I realized how lucky photographers are out west!

Nothing compares to the light west of the Rockies ... at least that's my opinion. It has opened up a space in my work for new images and a new opinion of natural light and the beauty it can bring to an image.

Email Marketing and Promotional Time for Photographers

2009-04-21T15:52:00.000-07:00

Email marketing is a huge help in the constant effort to keep my work in front of those who can hire me. Marketing as a freelancer is vital! However many things can get in the way of being consistent. I think it is something that every freelance creative & photographer might struggle with until they pay someone else to be consistent for them. Or their rep takes over and ensures that Epromo is in the inbox of the targeted art buyer the second Tuesday of every month at 2:46pm EST.

Its April and I just sent out my 1st Epromo for the year. I know it was late, I try to get one out every 5-6 weeks with new work and info. However a lot got in the way. I was waiting for website revisions and logo revisions until I could not wait any more. This is part of a new look for me. It will tie into the new Logo design and eventually the new web re-launch or janacruderphoto.com/3.0

This months promotion was a little longer in the making then previous Eblasts.
I've been working with an amazing creative consultant Rashell Roberts @ Get Invision and she brought up a very good point after seeing some other Epromo's of mine. She said, "Why not share some of the interesting stories behind the images, or the creative problem and how you went about solving it."

What a great idea!

She later pointed out another very valid point. That I'm being hired for how I see first and foremost and that needs to be communicated visually. However it is also very important to communicate how I problem solve?

To do this, I worked closely with my designer friend Carly Hebert
to make my Epromos visually more interesting design wise as well as feature copy to tell more of the stories behind the images.

The result, well I have to say this has been one of my most well received Eblasts to date. I received great feedback as well as direct responses from creatives commenting on the new promo layout and interesting things to read. I even got a in query for a shoot. Now that is exactly what we're after folks!

Thank you everyone for your amazing feedback and keep it coming. I'm always open for ideas and tips on how to keep my marketing fresh, and stand apart from the masses.

~ Jana

EMERGING photographers in this economy need to WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER

2009-04-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

~ new character portrait "PROBLEM CHILD" ~

The saying goes, "WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER".

Well these days you have to do both especially as a freelance creative. I'm a commercial / advertising photographer in the starting blocks of my career. I've been very fortunate to get some great gigs with national clients that have helped me build credentials and portfolio pieces that advance my career. I've been shooting for 6 years, full time freelance and shooting for 3 years now. I'm loving every minute of it, however it is a business.

Creative and all it is still business. So when costs are getting cut and photography budgets are getting slashed all over, how do you still get a decent creative fee and create work you can be proud of and help move your clients brand forward with such monetary restraints.

YOU WORK SMARTER! Some things I've personally done to make my business more efficient and capable of more flexibility.

1. Drastically reduced my over head in location, I have a small office outside my home and rent studios when I need them.

2. I own my own cameras and lights. This can go both ways, I have my own equipment that is paid for so when I'm asked to do an editorial portrait for $200 I can take it and not have to pay the rental house $175 to rent the equipment needed to do the shot.

3. Know a clients budget first hand so I can problem solve the best way possible to do the shoot up to my quality standards and still keep it in their budget.

4. Networking, its all who you know and who knows you

5. Refocus marketing to include more cost efficient marketing, reduced printed promos and increased email promotions and personal meetings.

6. Recession diet, drive less, eat less, drink more & do more things outside that are free and thing twice before spending on UN necessary business needs.

7. When traveling to show my book around stay in hostels in stead of hotels unless crashing at a friends house.

At this point I'm doing everything I can to keep growing my business and still create some amazing creative images for my personal portfolio and for my clients. At the end of the day, you have to love what you do & I LOVE WHAT I DO!

Love ~ Light ~ Life

BARBIES DESERT ADVENTURE Fasion Story by Jana Cruder Los Angeles, CA

2009-03-31T12:39:00.000-07:00

" There is just something about the desert that inspires me, it has inspired me since the first time I came out this way when I was 19. I think it is the freedom of the open road that I'm addicted to. Watching the road stretch on forever in front of you... endlessly.
Reminding us that possibilities are ENDLESS and DREAMS DO come true. " ~ Jana

This Past Weekend I ventured into the Desert of CA, something I've done many times with other photographers for their shoots. However this weekend was different.

I went on location to shoot for myself.
I needed a few more Fashion Shoots to fill out my fashion portfolio. This time it was a large production. I worked with a producer friend in LA to pull it all together. We were able to make it happen, me, an assistant, makeup & hair, 3 models, stylist and a small production crew out to 29Palms area for the whole weekend all for portfolio work. I paid for it out of my pocket, its an investment into my business.

I shot two different stories.

The one "RED PLANET" is more of a fashion story with a mix of new pieces from Selma Karaca in NYC and vintage pieces pulled from a variety of collectors, modernized with sterling silver accessories by Navajo silversmith Cody Sanderson of Santa Fe.
A small sample of this story is above.

Moon Rocks, Volcano and salt flats made for the perfect location to play into the whole space and another planet idea.

The second story " BARBIE's DESERT ADVENTURE" was more a photo story with a vintage style by a designer in San Diego, CA "Styles by Barry".
This story features 3 BARBIES and their adventure into the desert to only get lost and stumble upon the small diner and hotel in AMBOY to find no one there.

The funniest part of the shoot was the models getting completely into BARBIE characters walking and talking like BARBIE. I'll post the behind the scenes video of that on my new website when it launches in April.

I'll post these completed and retouched stories soon to my website. Until then please enjoy some sample images from the shoot.

A special thank you to everyone who helped pull this together and make it happen. I appreciate it so much. I hope you had as much fun as I did.

Here's to creating your dreams!!!
Love ~ Light ~ Beauty
Jana

EMERGING PHOTOGRAPHER SEEKING REPRESENTATION

2009-02-12T21:53:00.000-08:00

"IS IT POSSIBLE WITHOUT A REP?"

This is the biggest question this year.

One of my goals this year 2 months into 2009 is to gain representation. To accomplish this goal, I'm positioning myself to realistically by April have portfolios and web revamped to a point to go chucking after Reps in San Francisco and LA. In this quest I've set out on, I keep finding my self asking the SAME question.

Is it possible w/o a rep to...

~ Land a LARGE ad gig for an agency?
I'm learning not so much, due mostly to the relationships that art buyers and creatives have with reps and rep agencies. Not to mention the fact that if X photographer fudges up in any way they can call X Rep and raise hell.

~ Get into LARGE ad agency for portfolio review?
YES, I've been there done that with some bites but nothing that has turned into a large gig yet. Although I'm staying positive on the little seeds I'm planting.

~ Win massive awards in trade pubs like PDN & ADC?
UP FOR DEBATE, I think most winners are selected because someone knows someone who once looked at someones work and called in a book and voila they are the next best thing.

~ Focus 80% of your time on your craft?
NO, As a small business owner, it is impossible without representation to really take your career to the next level. I need one to get the other. I need the rep to get the big gigs that allow me the $$$ to hire people to do what I do everyday. Selling myself, marketing, cold calling, warm calling, accounting, computer fixer, floor sweeper, portfolio printer and 10% of the time I get to PLAY PHOTOGRAPHER.

That is the role I love most! & That is why I'm still here folks.

I think I'm ready for representation so universe this is me putting it all out there! I have a large body of work that needs fine tuning and to the right rep would be a goldmine of possible client elation. I'm smart and know what I'm doing + I get along with clients and have a huge respect for collaboration. I'm not a diva, and I understand the value of building that relationship and doing a great job on budget. I have a diverse background and totally can understand where the client and creatives are coming from. PICK ME to be a part of your team!

Here's to loving what you do!

SHOOTING - Karina Smirnoff

2009-02-11T12:45:00.000-08:00

In Early December I photographed Karina Smirnoff of the popular TV show " Dancing with the Stars" for LVM Las Vegas Magazine. The shoot was for the magazines "10 Things" a section in the monthly publication that features a different well known person and their top 10 Things they love about Las Vegas. Karina & her publicist Melissa Berger were a blast to work with. The shoot had energy and Karina was pleasant and beautiful and knew how to work the camera and move. Movement and posing is so important and with her it was natural.

This is the final image they chose to run.

~ Enjoy~

Exhibiting works ~ LAS VEGAS

2009-02-07T12:06:00.000-08:00

Last night I exhibited for the first time my series "Characters from Concentrate". First Friday, is the art scene in Vegas, it draws about 3000 or so people out on the 1st Friday of every month to look at art from local artists as well as artists and galleries from around the world. I chose to show a 24x36 print of "Smoker" from my series "Characters from Concentrate".. as well as 5 smaller prints of other characters from this series. The responses were interesting. When people gather around your work and talk... it is by far one of the most satisfying things an image maker can experience, other then creating the work in the first place. The energy of the experience made me high. I made a lot of good contacts, generated some interest and a good time was had by all. Plus I even got to wear my vintage caftan.

~ Here's to living your dreams and following what you love !!!

Sophia Pernas of ELITE LA in a Studio | LOS ANGELES, CA

2009-02-06T21:23:00.001-08:00

I LOVE WATCHING PEOPLE

2009-01-17T18:40:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love watching people.... last night I went to see some live music. I was a little caught off guard when we got there and realized it was an all ages show.. thus no brews.
Anyhow, the music was great the band is a Las Vegas local band NEVERMIND very talented group of people. I found my self as I do at most concerts or gatherings with many people... people watching. This is sometimes visual over stimulation to my brain.
I took some snaps.. observing the high schools and found myself completely fascinated by them. They are very interesting, how they define themselves, what they wear, how they stand, the cell phones and PDS's they're addicted to like everyone else. I watch them and imagine them as adults and wonder what they'll be when they grow up... fascinating.

NEW OFFICE NEW YEAR

2009-01-09T10:47:00.000-08:00

I'm all settled into my new office in "THE ARTS FACTORY". I like it here, I'm around other artists and photographers. It's a small space but I think I've made it suite my needs the best I can right now. I mostly shoot on location anyhow, so this makes sense for me right now. Plus, if I need a studio I can walk right upstairs and rent one.
That works perfectly !!!!
Here are a few pics of my new space.

New space - NEW year!

~ Jana

SUN SHINING THOUGH TAHOE SNOWY TREES

2008-12-30T12:25:00.001-08:00

SUN SHINING THOUGH TAHOE SNOWEY TREES , originally uploaded by Jana Cruder Photography.

This image was taken on the drive home from Tahoe. I pulled over the Jeep and walked through this beautiful field filled with tall trees covered in snow. It was quiet and the sun was warm on my skin. This beautiful moment captured takes me right to that beautiful place and reminds me of the natural high I felt being there in that place and time.

Here's to a BEAUTIFUL new year!

Shooting Chandler

2008-12-25T10:50:00.001-08:00

Chandler Rylko 2, originally uploaded by Jana Cruder Photography.

Last week I shot Chandler. He is a male model/actor in LA. It was a fun shoot, very mellow, I really enjoyed working with him and I'm very pleased with the Black & White fashion images I created. We started in the tree lot, the Christmas tree lot in Hermosa. I have worked for weeks on the concept. I worked together with the prop stylist Patrick Muller and the wardrobe stylist Kristin Pfund to bright the concepts to life. Those images from that first set up are being retouched and will be posted in a few weeks. This image was captured after we nailed the first concept and shoot and were just playing around. Sometimes thats the best thing, to let all the pre concieved ideas and ideals go and just create.

MY Thought on WHERE I'm at in this "PHOTO INDUSTRY"

2008-12-08T20:00:00.000-08:00

I often look at other photographers sites and admire their tight 20 image portfolios. I stress in editing my work down to 20 images. I look at the breadth of my experience, the massive amount of shoots I've done. The variety of work that all translates a style that is uniquely me and I think that I don't need to also have a tight 20 image portfolio. If you look at my website, and look on my flickr, dig through my old posts and google my name till no end. There within you'll find my body of work. So far I'm constantly fascinated and excited by every photo I create, I think that is something I'll always have. I can't pretend to know where my career is going. Try as I might to narrow my work at this point in my career I feel that it would do no one ... especially me justice. So if you are just as excited about any of my images give me a call. Lets talk about making something new, some new images to be excited about.

Love ~ Light ~ Life

THE BALLOONS HAVE IT

2008-12-08T19:02:00.000-08:00

Images from my most recent fashion shoot on location here in LA. Hair & makeup by Christine Della Cioppa.

Jana Cruder Photo shoots for FUSE NETWORK

2008-11-19T07:37:00.000-08:00

Reality TV, is fascinating. It has come a long way since The Real World MTV Style.
I shot for FUSE network reality tv show "Redemption Song". The idea behind the show was to give aspiring song writers and singers chance at a dream of a record contract with Geffen records. The winner of the show will be announced tonight when the last episode of the series airs. Here is a link to see the show stream online. Also check out those album covers, that was my handywork.

http://www.fuse.tv/ontv/shows/redemption-song/

Here are a few pictures from that shoot.

Black and White Summer

2008-11-12T11:43:00.001-08:00

I shot Summer & Brandon in Las Vegas a few weeks ago. Summer that is her real name. She is a scene kid from Las Vegas. I would have to say, I'm not as up on highschool clicks as I'd like to be. However there are many, many different groups teens can choose to be part of these days. Each have their own unique style and following. They listen to specific music, watch specific movies, wear specific clothes, and only hang out with others from their click. It is absolutly facinating to me.

Denim OF Virtue - Look Book Shoot

2008-11-01T18:14:00.000-07:00

Check out some images I recently shot for Denim of Virtue Look Book. Models Kiki from JETSET and Shawn Cook from I-Models LA. The was a really great shoot the vibe of the crew and everyone on set was amazing. We were all on the same page and worked together to produce some great images.

Beauty shots with edge by Jana Cruder Photography

2008-10-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

These were shot a few weeks ago, this was a really fun shoot. It was one of those shoots where everyone was on the same page, we pushed and all ended up happy with the results. Its always a little tricky shooting skin, hair and beauty images. It really helps to have young, healthy beautiful models with almost blemish free skin. This makes my job a lot easier. Hair by Brit Suer of CRISTOPHE Beverly Hills & Makeup by Elizabeth Lague. Models Kelsey of JETSET & Asia of I- Models Los Angeles. Location, southern California.

Models Models Models & Paint

2008-10-05T21:22:00.001-07:00

Today I photographed Kelsey from Jetset & Asia from I-Models on a painters drop cloth in my backyard. This was for my portfolio! With the help of Brit Suer & Elizabeth Lague we had a lot of fun making beautiful pictures of beautiful women.

Advertising - how do I get the word out ???

2008-09-29T11:12:00.000-07:00

Being a photographer in today's market has its ups and downs. When the economy goes up, business goes up. When the economy goes down, well the first thing to get cut in many companies if marketing and advertising. What does that mean for freelance photographers like me. It means that we are being asked to do more for less. Clients are buying more stock, Istock photo sales have grown and I'm looking for new and more affordable ways to reach my audience. I currently list and advertise on a majority of the industry sites including Blackbook.com, PDN Photo Serve, ASMP Find a Photographer, LinkedIn, Flickr, Le Book, Comm Arts and many many more. This is not only expensive but extreemly time consuming to keep all the images updated and profile info up to par. Here's to looking for new ways to reach audiences who will buy what I'm selling.
Have a great Monday.

Love ~ Light ~ Life

Active Seniors

2008-09-12T12:39:00.000-07:00

I'm in Las Vegas for the next few weeks shooting for stock photography. I'm currently with Corbis and in talks with Jupiter. I was previously with Photoshelter until they closed their stock collection yesterday. The news that they were discontinuing their stock photography product and sticking with their personal archive product came as a harsh reality check for me. I believe that stock photography can fulfill many different needs for both the consumer and client as well as the photographer. Stock and stock sales are a directly affected by the economy. The rule of thumb on stock is the more you have in the more chances you have to get an image licensed and make some royalties off of it. The other side to stock photography is that clients are now asking too much, turning to stock much more now then ever before. Clients are asking much more of stock shooters and agencies. Here are some of my most recent images created for stock. I focused on active seniors 55+ and real people not models, doing real things. I'm very pleased with this so far and looking forward to shooting more for this series. Not only has it given me a chance to create some strong fresh stock, I've met some incredible people and have some new additions to my portfolio.

Shooting on a Sailboat

2008-09-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

The opportunity came up for me to do a spec shoot for a luxury perfume client and I jumped on it. It involved a shot of a woman on a sailboat. Now I live in CA and I should be able to find a sailboat easily. I called everyone I knew, I even called friends of friends who I didn't know.
I called sailing clubs and sailboat rental places. Looking for someone who would let me borrow and shoot on their boat for a few hours with a crew and no location fee. A friend of mine suggested I go to the marina and ask around. At first I thought no way, no one would give up their boat on such a beautiful weekend. I've always operated under the idea that it can never hurt to ask, and that you just never know unless you ask. With that mentality I headed to the Redondo Marina. There I found some nice boating enthusiasts who were extremely knowledgeable and knew exactly who I could contact to see about shooting on their sailboat. They gave me a number of a guy named Dan, who's boat was something of a legend in the marina. Come to find out the boat has been photographed for many different things from Playboy calenders to clothing catalogues. I gave Dan a call, and he was sailing on his way to Catalina. I let him know what I was looking to do and he said sure to come on by on Monday and shoot. His boat broke down on the way back from Catalina, so we were unable to do actual sailing shots however we did get some good shots on the boat while it was in the slip. Don't mind the pine trees in the background nothing a little Photoshop can't retouch out.
Lets hope the client loves it and goes with a license. If not, this shoot when edited and retouched will make a great addition to my portfolio.

Images from the Photoshelter "Shoot the Day" contenst NYC

2008-08-07T12:56:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of my favorite images I shot on location in NYC for Photoshelter's shoot the day July 20, 2008. you can click this link to licenses these for stock. Whhh hoo.

http://psc.photoshelter.com/user/janacruderphoto

NYC and Back

2008-07-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

I arrived in NYC on the 18th. I was in town to shoot for Photoshelter's SHOOT THE DAY.
I was one of the selected photographers to go to NYC and shoot "Youth Culture". This was an interesting experience. It was somewhat like project runway with photographers. There were 4 of us shooting the same models, same location with the same equipment at the same time. My fellow photographers were all professionals that I think are wicked talented. We all pushed ourselves that day to let our own unique voice come through when all working with the same pieces of the puzzle. This was a fun and interesting experience and I have to say I'm pleased with what I created on July 20, 2008 for Photo Shelter's SHOOT THE DAY. Thank you for the opportunity!

"THE HERMOSA PROJECT"

2008-07-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

I live in Hermosa Beach, CA. I've been here for a while now. It is a small beach town with a lot of character. Character that is quickly changing with the knocking down of historical buildings and local family run establishments and the building of beach front condos and mega hotels. One thing that continuously fascinates me about Hermosa are the many, many different types of people that 1. call it home OR 2. are here visiting. It is a tourist attraction, but attracts a little different type of family vacationer then say Santa Monica or Malibu. I've started "THE HERMOSA PROJECT" to document the different characters I find interesting walking around the pier in Hermosa at sunset. I'm shooting this in all Polaroid and asking people to write something on their image. I try not to influence the images, rather... I ask if I can photograph then then I shoot the shot. I do not give direction and I do not tell them what to write on the photo. I'm currently up to about 223 images. Once the project is completed or Polaroid stops making film which eve happens first....I will publish a separate site and poss. a
book, we will see! I started the project with my beloved 1972 Polaroid SX-70. One month in the camera died and I was devastated. I thought it was the end of my series. Then I found another on on EBAY. THANK GOD!

BEATTY Nevada

2008-07-15T16:08:00.000-07:00

Over the 4th of July my boyfriend and I headed to Tahoe Via Las Vegas. What is in between Las Vegas and Tahoe one may ask. The answer to that is NOTHING, it is many many hours of desert. Hot and dry, 107 degrees outside. We did find this little town, I'm sure anyone who does that drive stops here. Beatty, Nevada is a small little roadside stop where you can stock up on garlic stuffed olives and beef jerky use the restroom and keep on trucking to the next stop. While in Beatty I talked with Ron. He is a veteran and has lived there for many many years. He is the owner of the olive and jerky shop and was very happy to talk with us. As we were very pleased to exchange stories with him.

I WON - HEADING To NYC

2008-07-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness to my good friend Janis Hansen of Gibbs Smith publishing encouraging me to enter the PHOTOSHELTER contest "Shoot the Day" on LOCATION in NYC. I entered it and actually won. Out of 750 entries, they selected 20 shooters and one of them is me. I'm very excited for this opportunity and looking forward to creating some really compelling imagery. I head to NYC on the 18th and we shoot on the 20th. I'll be posting images from my travel and trip soon, as well as images I shoot for "Shoot the Day". This is a HUGE honor and I'm very great full for the reconition by my peers.

Here is more info about the contest and event

Shoot! On Location Winners!

Over 750 applicants were under consideration for the 20 spots for our Shoot! On Location event on July 20th as a part of Shoot! The Day. The 20 chosen photographers will engage in a photo shoot based on five key image categories noted by image buyers as most depleted: active seniors, youth culture, family and kids, business settings and still life. The photographers will be led by expert instructors and armed with all equipment and staff for the shoot, including state-of-the-art cameras and lenses from Nikon, lighting equipment from MAC Group, with models, stylists, make-up artists and locations provided by PhotoShelter. Pretty cool right?

(drum roll, please)

Youth Culture
Team Lead: Kareem Black

Grant Harder - Vancouver, BC
http://grantharder.com

Ryan Allan - Southern California
http://ryanallan.com

Lesley Allen - Southern California
http://lesleyallenphoto.com

Jana Cruder - Santa Monica, Ca
http://janacruderphoto.com

Studio Still Life & Objects:
Team Lead: David Hobby

Matt Armendariz - Santa Monica, California
http://www.mattphotographs.com

Erin Wigger - New York, NY
http://www.erinwigger.com

Fiona Aboud - New York, NY
http://www.fionaaboud.com

Michael Lopez - Bakersfield, Ca
http://psc.photoshelter.com/user/m329

Active Seniors:
Team Lead: Glenn Glasser

Jamey Guy - Atlanta, Ga
http://www.jameyguyphoto.com

Willamain Somma - New York, NY
http://www.willamain.com

Charles Williamson - New York, NY
http://psc.photoshelter.com/user/charlesjw

Norman Pogson - Ottawa, Ontario
http://www.normanpogson.com

Families & Kids:
Team Lead: Marili Forastieri

Leah Fasten - Boston, Mass
http://leahfasten.com

Doug Schneider - Westchester, New York
http://dougschneiderphoto.com

Landry Major - Bakersfield, Ca
http://www.landrymajorphotography.com

Leanna Rathkelly - Vancouver, BC
http://www.leannarathkelly.com

Business Situations & Settings:
Team Lead: Erica Freudenstein

Karen Evans - New York, NY
http://eekphoto.com

Stephanie Keith - New York, NY
http://www.stephaniekeith.com/

Chris Carroll - New York, NY
http://chriscarrollphoto.com

Patrick King - Washington, DC
http://www.patrickwking.com

Labor of Love

2008-06-28T22:09:00.000-07:00

I often hear artists, photographers, musicians, painters, social workers, environmentalists, documentary makers, caregivers and many other people say that what they do is a "Labor of Love". In my field it is every day, and everyday I remind myself if perchance I forgot for a simple second that I love what I'm doing.
Tonight is Saturday night, and I'm sticking labels on promo cards. I stare at the names printed ever so neatly and wonder, what that person will think when they get it. I study their names, and try pronounce them all how I think they would be pronounced. In that, I started to wonder what is it in a name? What's in a name? Ned Martel, Corey Seymour, Tracey Vera, Randy Saitta, Courtney Sava and so many others. I place them neatly in the box they came from all ready to go. I'm excited to see what comes of this. I only hope that someone will see it and take notice. I'm sure some will get tossed, hopefully into the recycling bin. Some will get used as book marks, some will prop up pesky keyboards, some will in inevitably become coffee coasters and yes some will be the resting place for old gum. But perhaps a few will make it. Perhaps a few will get noticed by people who will pin it up and look at it for a few days. Then a wee bit down the road... I'll get a call.. and that will be magical...... On a positive note... perhaps even sooner someone will see it and immediately call. One can dream right???

Love ~ Light ~ Life

L O V E C H I L D look book shoot

2008-06-11T07:35:00.001-07:00

I love it when a whole creative team meshes in the right way! When this happens the imagery created goes to another level. This happened on the Love Child Shoot on Sunday. Everyone was on the same page and everyone meshed so well! This comes from having great creative as well as having a great crew of people helping to make it all happen. I am so pleased with this shoot. It is a new arena for me, natural day light and that SO CAL lifestyle. I'll be uploading more to this story when I can get the edits together. For now here are a few selects.

Love Light Life

I am HAPPY

2008-06-09T12:26:00.000-07:00

Today, I woke up, went to El Porto to surf for a bit, got a yummy doughnut from BEST doughnuts took a shower and headed to work for the day. I was driving into my office. I found myself laughing out loud and smiling. There was no one else in the car but me, and there was just some chill music on the radio. I realized, I was so happy I was laughing out loud and smiling. Now that was a beautiful realization. I think it is contagious when people are truly happy in their lives. Everyone around them is happier. Everyone around those people are happier. Thus really affecting the mood of the planet. That being said, let me be great full some of the things in my life that are HUGE contributing factors to my happiness. I wear more color these days, I love color. I never use to, I use to wear a lot of black. My family, I'm developing relationships with them on a level that I never imagined was poss. Its interesting when you start to relate to your parents as other adults and no longer just your parents. They become close close friends who just happen to be your parents. For that I am great full. I'm in love, this is a beautiful blessing and a major contributing factor to my happiness. Lastly when people are able to make their living doing what their heart truly desires to be doing. That freedom and joy makes it so worth it!

Love, Light, Life

RIT Alumni Talks

2008-06-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

I was pleased to see the school I attended has listed me on their Alumni pages. This is inspiring! I'm happy to beheld in high regards, by the school from which I learned so much. I hope to return the knowledge some day weather it be by coming back and giving lectures to photo students or by continuing to offer internships and assisting positions to other RIT grads.
Here is a screen grab of what the CIAS RIT website says about me.
Thank you RIT!

Nature Rejuvinates the Spirit

2008-05-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

I recently got back from a trip to Zion National Park in Utah. I have been there before, however this time was different. I needed a visual break, a chance to re-energize my spirit and get to the roots of what feeds my soul. I read somewhere once that when Nature is removed from society, our spirit suffers. That is true, I think for everyone, especially true for creative individuals and image makers. Here is an image from this last adventure.

DRUG TOPICS Magazine

2008-05-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

I was recently contracted to shoot a portrait on location for Drug Topics Magazine. I photographed the Dean of the USC school or Pharmacy Pete Vanderveen and Lisa Macchia the USC director of health plans. I only had them for two hours, we did 4 different set ups in that time. Thank goodness I was able to pre-scout the location the day before. The client is pleased with the results, they were happy I gave them a variety of options to choose from. Sometimes you have to think quick on your feet and work even quicker. Here's the cover shot more tear sheets can be seen in the tear sheet section on my site.

I LOVE POLAROID

2008-05-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

I love Polaroid, talk to anyone who knows me and they will tell you about my 1972 pride and joy. The Polaroid land camera that came to me from a seller on eBay, all worn in, and smelling like patchouli. When I got the package in the mail, I sat there envisioning all the great moments that camera caught. I imagined it shooting family pics, in the 70's, baseball games in the 80's, and days at the beach. I continue to shoot with it, even in the pending fear that there will soon be no more instamatic film. I'm stocking up. This image was taken in the Valley of Fire state park outside Las Vegas. I couldn't of captured him better on digital.

IS it all COMING together

2008-05-06T23:03:00.000-07:00

I'm one of those people who constantly check their horoscopes. Thank you MSN.com
Today was exactly what I needed to hear. Here is my horoscope from today. It has reaffirmed what sometimes as a freelance photographer we forget!

"Your horoscope - Today, May 6, 2008
Whether you have acknowledged it or not, Jana, creation is the central theme of your life. There are a tremendous number of creative ideas floating around in your head, just itching to be expressed in some medium or another. There's nothing to lose, and you will likely be astonished by what you are able to produce. See, your brain really does have two sides. It's time to use them both! "

Beautiful!

Now go read your horoscope and enjoy the results.

Portrait of a Beard

2008-05-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

Portrait of Aeon and his beard. I think this would make a great shot for a Citibank Ad, a ad for mens grooming potion or pain reliever. Now waiting for Agencies to hire me to create a one of a kind piece for their next ad campagin.