Kat Hennessey Photographer and Performer

Kelly {The Stunning} King

2011-08-13T23:30:00.001+09:00

One of my Diva sisters was in need of new headshots.

With a face this gorgeous, I was happy to oblige. For those of you who aren't aware of her mega-big-deal-Top-20-recording-artist status, it's time you get educated.

This tiny gorgeous package packs one of the biggest voices you'll ever hear, and some serious songwriting skills to boot.

Check out her website here.

And come check us out at Diva, every Monday night!

PS- Hair & makeup by me. How did I do?

Project "Get Hot"

2011-08-04T13:09:00.003+09:00

As many of you know, a little over a year ago I sustained a pretty traumatic injury that had a major impact on my life. While my technical injury was a "ruptured disc," the full extent of the injury impacted me on so many other levels. One of the biggest side effects was that over the course of my recovery, I spent a very long time unable to exercise, and because of that (combined with some expected "eating of one's feelings") I lost a lot of muscle and strength, and gained a few unwanted pounds.

Well, it's time to shed that excess, and through the help of my fitness guru Mark Fisher, I am on my way to being SNATCHED!

His snatched in 6 weeks program is kicking my butt, but after a mere 3 days of intensity, I am already feeling stronger (and sorer!) and have noticed some subtle but impressive changes. Specifically and inch of my waist has already run screaming for the hills!

So, here it is, my toast to Getting Hot, and ultimately getting back to the life I was meant to be living!

Cheers!

kat

My Pretty Sis

2011-07-27T20:17:00.000+09:00

I went home to visit family last week, and while I was there, I took an afternoon with my sister-twin to update her head shots and promotional photos.

I'm still working on editing them, but couldn't wait to share a few!

Here's your sneak peak!

Bouquet

2011-07-27T13:51:00.000+09:00

There is nothing so lovely as a fresh bouquet of flowers to brighten the day.

Give a Little

2011-06-11T14:16:00.001+09:00

Remember Hanson?

Those three adorable little boys?

Well, they grew into three handsome and incredibly talented men.

I am completely in love with this most recent video for their single "Give a Little."

To the point that I make believe I am in it!

Doesn't it look like such a fun party?

And I love the old couple making out!

You're welcome!

A Trip to Paris? Is that even a question?

2011-06-08T18:47:00.004+09:00

As many of you know, I have been pining away for a European vacation for quite sometime. Reading a friend's blog today, I came across this give away, and decided that I would win it.

Call it my experiment on "The Secret," but I intend to collect this prize! Who wants to come with me? Just in case, let's all enter, and if someone else wins, you are taking me with you! Thanks!

Enter Here:

http://ohhappyday.com/2011/06/goes-to-paris

Video Obsession

2011-06-08T14:22:00.000+09:00

I am not the typical girl when it comes to thinking about weddings. I don't have my event planned out, nor have I ever sat and fantasized about it. However, I have an extraodinarily large number of friends who make their living through weddings in some form or another: photographers, makeup artists, florists, planners. And I have them to blame for my latest obsession: WEDDING VIDEOs.

They come in various form from the simple Super 8 style, to the grand sweeping Oscar worthy documentary. Here are some of my favorites. Watch, swoon, and savor.

You're Welcome.

First up is the epic Oscar Worthy Cinematography from my fellow High School Alumnus Kevin Shahinian, and his company Pacific Pictures.

This work is my favorite, and they even make mini-films about the couple that takes 4-5 days of shooting. . . as they say on their site, "Considering budgets from $20,000.00 (US) and up."

Here is a sample of their less expensive (starting at $4,800 ouch!) but equally stunning work!

Sapna & Vijay's Same-Day-Edit/Concept E-Session, Caribbean Island of Aruba from PACIFIC PICTURES on Vimeo.

On the polar opposite of the wedding video world, here is the simply sweet stop animation style from Tiger In a Jar.

stanton and rubi from tiger in a jar on Vimeo.

I love. . . Love!

2011-06-04T03:29:00.003+09:00

Just before bed last night, my darling best friend Jessica Hoffman texted me a link to a new website.

It was created for Tiffany & Co. and is called "What Makes Love True."

Tiffany & Co. teamed up with Ed Burns to create a documentary short about people in love in New York City.

Not only do I love the film, I love the website, the flow and the feel. (I'm especially obsessed with looking at beautiful websites these days as I'm working on redesigning my own.)

So take a look and enjoy a little bit of extra love today!

www.whatmakeslovetrue.com

Introducing Kiara Duran | NY Headshots

2011-05-21T13:20:00.000+09:00

Kiara Duran is a talented girl with gorgeous bone structure. An already accomplished singer/songwriter, she came to me through the amazing Scott Alan as she is a part of his year long Master Class series. We had the joy of shooting on a day of pouring rain (note the sarcasm.) But we made things work by shooting inside in some unconventional places. Here are some of my favorite shots from the day.

Clarissa | Headshots

2011-03-29T15:35:00.000+09:00

Clarissa came to me through my fabulous new roommate, and we instantly had a blast. She is such a commanding presence and is certain to have great things ahead of her. . . Can't you just see her on CSI or as a District Attorney on a new law drama?

And of course, Penny had to sneak out with us for her 2nd look, and she insisted on being the star of the shoot!

It's DIVA Day!! | Ramona Keller

2011-03-28T12:00:00.000+09:00

Tonight is yet another night of DIVA at Industry Bar!

We have some seriously hot songs keyed up and ready to go, plus our guest DIVA Ramona Keller is going to bring the house down!!

And all of it is free!!

I hope you can make it!

Tonight, and every Monday at 11pm.

Industry Bar

355 West 52nd (Between 8th & 9th)

DIVA | Felicia Finley

2011-03-21T13:00:00.000+09:00

Tonight's another beautiful DIVA night, so come out and check out our new songs including a whistle tone duet with Anne Fraser Thomas and Kelly King!

And while you're there, you will get the special delight of hearing Felicia Finley rock the house!

As always it's free free free!!

Every Monday at 11pm

at Industry-Bar

355 W. 53nd Street

between 8th & 9th

Finley has been making audiences laugh in such Broadway shows as 'The Wedding Singer' (Linda) 'Aida' (Amneris), 'Forbidden Broadway', Smokey Joe's Café, and 'The LIfe' (April),pre-Broadway 'Catch Me If You Can'. In 2009, Felicia found herself touring the United States with the show Happy Days as Pinky (developed by Garry Marshall.) Felicia also takes breaks from theatre to promote her debut solo album "Great Mood for a Tuesday". The album is being critically praised as a "relevant, incendiary rock effort that firmly brands Finley as a significant rock talent". Last summer she played opposite Andre' De Shields as 'Lola' in "Damn Yankees" and was currently starring in the musical adaptation of the movie, "Saved" at Kansas City Repertory. Felicia will be performing at Therapy's Broadway Brouhaha on 52nd every Tuesday night in April! feliciafinley.com

Spider Musical

2011-03-21T12:00:00.000+09:00

It's pretty likely that you've heard about all the drama surrounding the SpiderMan Musical on Broadway. With all the creative changes, injuries and delays, the perfect window was opened for a couple of lyrically adept opportunists to create some true magic.

You may remember the incredibly good looking Randy Blair whose image I captured here and here. . .

He is one half of this magic pairing. With Timothy Drucker, they have created The SpiderMusical on a mere $15,000 budget, and a brisk week of prep time!

Last week I shot some stills of the production, and couldn't stop laughing behind the lens. I watched the show again on Saturday this time without the distraction of a camera, and it's honestly the most I have laughed in a very very long time!

Along with writing the show, Randy stars in the show as the evil Dr. Cosbourne. You may also recognize the ridiculously talented Katie Thompson who I shot with here, as she too stars in this crazy wonderful romp. She brings down the house mid-show with the hysterical and genius "The Clowns Are Gone."

If you are in New York, there are still 2 more chances to see the show tonight (7 & 10) before the spider slumbers. Get all the info here. www.SpiderMusical.com

DIVA's Live at Industry | NYC

2011-03-03T14:15:00.000+09:00

A while back I dropped a little hint about a new show that I am a part of. . .

DIVA

Presented by Marty Thomas starring Anne Fraser Thomas, Kelly King, and ME!

Each week we bring you big diva songs, and a special guest diva!

This week we share the stage with the amazing Orfeh!

Every Monday at 11pm at Industry Bar.

IT'S FREE!!

I'd love to see you all there!

And thank you to Broadway World for the love!

Read our article here!

And look for us next week on the cover of TIME OUT NY!!

Morgan James | Live at Dominion Again!

2011-03-03T14:00:00.000+09:00

I honestly cannot get enough of this ridiculously beautiful woman!

Check out this amazing review of her show here:

Click Here

She wowed the crowd, yet again, people errupting in fits of squeals and applause with the sheer delight her voice incites! I have the best job in the world.

Here are a few of my favorite shots from the night!

Slight Smile Part 2 | Only in NY

2011-02-28T04:59:00.002+09:00

I just arrived home from a beautiful day at church to receive this reply from brotherwise9@------.com:

"Well stated and duly noted.

In all honesty, I couldn't make love to you in good conscience knowing you were abandoning your morals. Sexual union with a woman must be the affirmation of life itself, an intensity both sensual and spiritual. Anything else is against my morality.

Thanks again, this time for your frankness and sincerity."

Just goes to show you that it's worth it to live true to what you believe.

Slight Smile | Only in NY

2011-02-27T09:00:00.001+09:00

The other day I was riding the C train home after meeting up with a client to review photos. As I stepped onto the train, I noticed a very handsome man looking right at me. Flattered and flustered, I took a seat and tried to get comfortable.

This was not a boy, mind you, but a 6'4", well built, Rick Fox- look-a-like, very manly man's man.

I pulled out my phone and opened up the book I had been reading earlier that day. I could feel his gaze still focused on me, so I took a little breath, turned my head and made eye contact. He smiled, so I gave a slight smile, then turned back to my book.

Out of the corner of my eye, I could see that he had pulled out a piece of paper, wrote something down, and folded it in his hand.

The train began to slow as we pulled to my stop, and I started to exit the train. He stepped off just before me and turned, placing one hand on my shoulder, and grabbing my open hand, he passed to me his little note while saying,

"Excuse me, I think you dropped this."

"Oh, did I?" I giggled as I started up the stairs.

Glancing behind me, I saw him jump back on the train and continue uptown.

Half way up the stairs I unfolded the note:

"Thank you for the slight smile.

Brotherwise9@--------.com"

I couldn't help but be flattered, so when I got home I jumped on the computer to send a reply:

"You're welcome for the slight smile.

Kat"

A few hours later as I picked up my laptop to do some work, I saw that I had a reply:

"Dear Kat,

I'd like to see more of that smile someday accompanied by some excellent conversation and a bit more overt flirtation."

At this point I'm thinking, sweet, sounds like a gentleman.

The email continued:

"I should warn u though, my situation is complicated.

I'm a bad@ss, an unrepentant womanizer.

I just want to be honest about the fact that your smile didn't inspire anything platonic.

Should u be up for the adventure, I have every intention of making u my lover.

If u can't handle it, that's cool, I understand.

Just let me know one way or the other and thanks again for that sultry ass girl next door smile of yours.

That's a dangerous weapon, be careful with that."

Jaw open, I stared at the screen.

Hmmmm. How to respond?

I took a bit of time to prepare the appropriate response.

"Dear Brotherwise9@------.com

I took a few days to think it over, and here are my thoughts:

Thank you for the warning.

Should I ever decide to abandon my morals, you can be the first one in line.

It's very unlikely, though.

But, thanks for the flattery.

Have a nice day.

Sincerely,

kat"

Only in New York.

Katie O'Neill | Sunny Day

2011-02-26T22:35:00.000+09:00

I love getting amazing clients referred through amazing friends.

Katie is one such girl.

And unfortunately, her previous experiences getting headshots taken were not the most possitive. It was my happy job to chance her experience, and we had the most fantastic sunny day to help us on our way.

The sun wasn't the only thing shining. . . this newlywed was shining her gorgeous ring and her gorgeous smile at my camera all day.

Lisa Lehr | in NYC

2011-02-24T10:13:00.000+09:00

Back in the day, I traveled the world working on cruise ships. This was some of the most fun of my life, not only because I was seeing exotic ports of call on a daily basis, and getting paid to do it, but also because I got to live and work with some of the best people I've ever known.

One such person is the fantastical Lisa Lehr.

As a director and choreographer, and before that as a dancer, she has traveled the world and won the hearts of all those she works with. This last weekend, she came to New York City, and with the amazing Dara Klein doing makeup, we had a fantastic afternoon, despite the freezing winds that forced us to shoot only inside.

Morgan James | Live at Dominion

2011-02-23T20:10:00.001+09:00

My uber-talented and oh-so-gorgeous friend Morgan James did it again on Monday night.

What did she do, you ask?

She melted faces, ya'll.

With such an original sound & such powerful stage presence, a Morgan James concert is truly unlike any other.

I was there to document this crazy-amazing girl again, and loved every minute of it!

(PS- there was also a huge team of incredible videographers there, and in a few weeks, lucky you will be able to watch the whole thing in HD!)

In case you missed it this time, you have one more chance to see her at Dominion this next Monday, Feb 28th.

Get your tickets now!

Things are Changing!!

2011-02-18T00:15:00.000+09:00

Lots of things are changing in my life, including. . .

- A new City.

- A new Apartment.

- New lovely friends.

- A new Website.

- And a diva-liscious new show!

Stay tuned as I spill the deets in the coming days!

Morgan James | Get Your Tickets!

2011-02-18T00:14:00.000+09:00

So, remember not too long ago when I photographed this stunning woman LIVE as she melted everyone's face?

Well, you are in luck, cause there's still time for you to see her do it again!

Get your tickets here before they sell out!

This Monday, February 21st at Dominion | 8pm

PS- You are about to see a lot more of her on this blog!

Inspiration

2011-02-11T16:30:00.001+09:00

I like food.

I like photography.

And lately, I've been contemplating the wonderful world that combines those two things:

Food Photography.

I just came across Scott Peterson, and I must say. . .

I wanna eat his photos!

Here are a few of my favorites.

WWW.SCOTTPETERSONPRODUCTIONS.COM

Vintage Maps

2011-02-08T12:00:00.000+09:00

It's my someday dream to have a home with a devoted Library featuring giant vintage maps of the world. While I am not quite ready for my dream home, in the meantime I can at least wear a little piece of my dream. . .

Thank you Anthropologie. . .

Natalie Colvin

2011-02-08T09:00:00.000+09:00

This gorgeous girl came to me via my uber-talented-voice-teacher-of-a-sister Erin Guinup.
I have been lucky enough to not only watch her grow in talent over the years, but in beauty as well. As her vocal coach, it makes me proud to know that this girl will go on to do big things!
Here are a few shots from her effortless photoshoot! Get it, Nat!

LA Fun with Jeshi!

2011-02-07T17:30:00.001+09:00

To start the new year off right, I headed down to sunny SoCal to do a shoot with dear friend Tamara (images coming soon), and to spend a little time with my Best Friend Forever, and total inspiration Miss Jessica Justina Hoffman!

Since that fated day in high school when we sat together in the dance room to take the test in Seventeen Magazine to see if we'd be "Friends Forever," she has been my other half, even though we have lived half a world apart!
She is a woman of many talents, and a woman of power and charity. She is currently blogging down the 30 days surrounding her 30th birthday with "30 Days of Beauty." Follow her on her blog as she celebrates, shares and creates beauty in all that she touches!

Happy 30th Best Friend. . .
And thanks for getting there first!

http://purebeautyministries.blogspot.com/

Delightfully, we traded the camera back in forth all over West LA, including a stop at the romantic and nostalgic LA County Museum of Art's Urban Light exhibit.

Have a look-see:

Randy Blair gets Randy

2011-01-28T09:00:00.001+09:00

So you may remember this guy from a while back!

Well, we decided we needed to show the handsome, sophisticated, and not quite so insane side of this darling boy.

So, we got together last week in the super rad lower east side of New York to shoot away.

White Elephant Repurposed

2010-12-07T18:00:00.000+09:00

For the last several years, every Christmas, my family has done a very simple gift exchange.

This year, my brilliant sisters jokingly suggested doing white elephant gifts instead.

But, being me, I couldn't just leave it at that. . .

Intead, we will be taking items that would typically be white elephants, and turning them into something cool. It's like a family trash to treasure project.

So, to inspire my family on our way, here are a few of my favorite trash to treasure makeovers that I've scoured from the inter-verse.

These tea pots and other goodies got a second life as lamps:

These tea cups got an anthropologie inspired makeover, thanks in part to my friend Becca:

Chicken wire becomes a bulletin board:

This paneled window turn mirror is to die for!!

This ugly brass chandelier gets a 2010 update:

And remember those old glass lamp shades that would fill up with dead bug bodies. . . well, clean 'em out and fill them with life:

Most of these inspirational projects came from the genius readers over at Design*Sponge.

Okay, family. . .

Let's get to work!

"It's an Alaia! An A-What-A?"

2010-12-03T08:16:00.002+09:00

I was scanning apartment #34's killer wish list today, when I came across these gorgeous darlings!

They're made by a "totally important designer."

If only they weren't $2,375!

Maybe if I had a super wealthy benefactor who wished to pamper me. hmmm.

If you are said benefactor, click here to purchase.

Overnight shipping please!

Behind the Scenes | DollyMix

2010-11-29T09:00:00.001+09:00

You may remember this video from a few months ago. . .

Here are some of my favorite images from behind the scenes of

DollyMix for DISfunkshion Magazine.

Key Hair & Makeup by Jessica Hoffman

Lots more to see in the slide show here:

Sneaky Peaky | DollyMix

2010-11-28T20:00:00.002+09:00

Here's a little sneak peak at tomorrow's blog post. . .

Yummy colors on pretty faces + lots of lovely hair = happy me!

The perfect Snuggle?

2010-11-26T12:00:00.000+09:00

As I was perusing the Black Friday online sales, I came across what could be the best snuggle ever. Or maybe the saddest thing I've ever seen.

It's called:

The Hug Me Pillow

And It's only $24.97

Amazing, right?

Morgan James | In Concert

2010-11-26T09:00:00.000+09:00

Just about two years ago, I was walking down 42nd street with a few friends and a new acquaintance. She was blonde, gorgeous without any makeup, and sweet as can be. We got to talking and decided to do a trade: She would work on new music with me, and I would do a photoshoot for her. . .

Flash forward two years later, and I am just now holding up my end of the bargain.

Since that fated day, I have come to call Morgan James my friend. And since that day, she has rocked the Broadway stage in The Addams Family, and will soon bring down the house in Wonderland the Musical (with a few other fabulous friends!)

2 weeks ago, she debuted her first solo concert at Le Poisson Rouge in NY. In true diva style, she schooled everyone in that room on what it means to be a star.

www.MorganJames.org

Check out the slideshow below.

And of course, here she is live, bringing down the house!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEpV5B5pScg

Congrats Morgan on being a total genius!

Melissa Farrar

2010-11-25T09:00:00.001+09:00

Last winter, I was in Chicago preparing for the World Premier of Banana Shpeel at the Chicago Theatre. One day, I walked into the green room where I found a new friend. She was the visiting girlfriend of a cast member, but she instantly became my new girl friend. She's from the Seattle area, where my family now lives, and is an exquisite dancer now hoofing in the big city. This last week in New York, after sleeping on her couch, she and I trekked around Hell's Kitchen to capture her girlish gorgeousness.

The Jazz Singer | Laura Hart

2010-11-24T09:00:00.001+09:00

Laura Hart is a Jazz Singer.

Laura Hart is from Orange County.

Laura Hart is GORGEOUS!

We met back in the day in Orange County doing a production of Children of Eden at Musical Theater West. . . We were storytellers :)

And this woman is still as beautiful as the day I met here, but now, she is traveling the the world as a seductive and stunning jazz singer.

We met up a few weeks ago in New York City for a quick capture of her beauty-ness!

Rachel & Sally

2010-11-24T07:30:00.004+09:00

These two gorgeous girls happen to be roommates and best friends.

This is Sally the Amazing.

This is Rachael, the great!

Me with the lovelies!

My Someday | Home Library & Map Room

2010-11-24T07:20:00.005+09:00

I've always dreamed of having a home Library & Map Room.

It doesn't have to be large. . . in fact the idea of a small cozy nook makes me wanna curl up

right now and dream about it some more!

When the recent Restoration Hardware catalog came to me featuring

vintage inspired libraries, I swooned on the spot.

Penny's New Shoes

2010-11-23T12:59:00.003+09:00

In the last two days, the winter has come upon us. . . cold temperatures, wind, frost, and a 2 inch blanket of snow. This is quite a lot of winter for tiny little Penny Lane. So I went to Petco with my niece Carolynne to buy Penny some winter wear. I came across these little boots to protect her tiny toes. And it added a little bounce to her prance.

Scott Alan ||| What I wanna be when I grow up!

2010-11-12T10:46:00.002+09:00

If you haven't heard the music of Scott Alan yet, you are living a deprived life.

Not only is he a brilliant composer, but he is one of those rare, genuinely good guys, who I am lucky enough to call my friend.

For his 3rd and most recent album, he released a collection of songs that are both bouyant and beautiful. And to make it even more special, he has many of my very talented friends singing them. Including fellow Japanese Elphaba, Cassie McIvor. I was happy to make the introduction, and now even happier to listen to her gorgeous voice singing "Not Quite Ready to Grieve." (It's playing in the background as I write this :)

Last month, Scott and I got together to shoot some photos for his new website and upcoming press releases. We headed down to the meatpacking district and walked the streets to get these great shots. Thanks to Shane Terenzi, make up artist and puppy holding extraordinaire (he cuddled Penny while I worked,) and my fantastic assistant Adrienne Fisher, we came out with some gorgeous shots of one handsome, talented man.

Behind-the-scenes | The Dolly Mix Beauty Story

2010-09-28T12:39:00.006+09:00

We arrived at Kitchen Studios early in the morning on what

was forecasted to be a stormy day.

Lucky for us, the rain stayed away, and the clouds filtered a gorgeous autumn light.

Jessica set up by the paned glass windows and set out to turn three

beautiful girls into a tryptic of vibrant manequins.

Here is a behind-the-scenes look at the transformation.

Dolly Mix Beauty Story from Kathleen Hennessey on Vimeo.

Key Make Up, Hair, and Concept by Jessica Hoffman

Filmed on location at Kitchen Studios in New York City

for DISfunkshion Magazine's January issue.

Filmed and edited by Kat Hennessey.

Photography by Zack DeZon

Assistant Hair and Make Up by Jen Paelmo

Featuring Models:

Christina Vorobets

Amanda Nagode

Kelly Gervais

Speaking of Cynthia Rowley

2010-09-18T09:30:00.000+09:00

How much am I drooooooling over this insanely

gorgeous dress from her Spring Collection!

Yes, please!!

WHAT? Bloomer explosion

2010-09-18T09:00:00.000+09:00

Can anyone explain this to me??

Why would you want to walk around in your panties?

Even if you have the most amazing legs in the world, can anyone honestly explain why you would wear these, especially styled in the middle of a forrest, in boots and a scarf. Aren't you girls a little chilly?

But the trend is everywhere, from Project Runway to my beloved Cynthia Rowley.

It's not summer, and honestly, it just ain't cute, kids!

I honestly just don't get it.

But, if you got the legs and the comprehension for why, by all means do. . . .

Just do it in the Carribean or somewhere tropical.

Thanx.

Copy Kat | Plum Guacamole

2010-09-17T15:53:00.006+09:00

Hip, Hip, Hooray for a New Blog Series!

I will now and then be posting about my newest obsessions

and teaching you how to copy me. . .

So, I will kick it off with my newest obsession,

which has already been copied by a few of my fabulous Twitter Followers!

{follow me here}

Plum Guacamole

It's a simple idea, really.

Recreate that perfect snacking food by using all organic & local produce, and thinking a bit outside of the box.

So here is my recipe, honed over years of obsessiveness with avocados. . .

(It all started with a avocado tree when I was growing up!)

4 Ripe Avocados

1 local Plum

1 Green Heirloom tomato

1 bunch Green Onions

1/2 Shallot

1/2 Lime

Sea Salt

First halve your avocados and remove the pits. I then find a butter knife my best friend as I slice first across and then down making a grid in the shell. With a spoon, remove flesh and place in a medium mixing bowl.

Next, is chop time! Everything gets chopped, and the finer the chop, the better.

Take your Lime, and squish it in every direction before you cut it. Doing this gets the juice out of it's pods, so when you cut it open, the juice begins to pour out.

Splash the other ingredients with the fresh lime juice to taste.

Sprinkle the sea salt evenly as you mix, mix, mix away at the ingredients, being sure to just slightly smash the avocado chunks.

You're all set! Eat it with a spoon (like me :)

Or my other favorite way. . . with fresh made local tortilla chips.

I've become a huge fan of Penny's Salsa Corn Chips. Simple and Yummy.

Let me know if you copy me!!

Self Portrait Time

2010-09-16T19:33:00.000+09:00

As a photographer and a performer, I guess it's only natural to feel like I should take my own headshots. . . but it's a whole lot harder than it sounds!

Luckily, I came through with a few good ones.

Let the processing begin.

Here's a sneak peak of what's to come.

Press Conference with Paris Hilton

2010-08-29T16:21:00.004+09:00

As you have all heard, or maybe ignored, Paris Hilton has yet again found herself in the arms of the Las Vegas Police Department. As this is such a joyous occassion, let's all take a moment to reflect on the genius that is

Lesli Margherita playing Paris Hilton.

My favorite moment is when she gets all sentimental and says :

"I would not be just a nuthin'. My bra all full uh stuffin'. My nose full of cocaine.

Then perhaps you'd deserve me and be even worthy ERV Me. . .

It seriously one of the most genius improvs of my life! And I wish to share it all with you!

Enjoy my darling, dear, and totally freakin insane friend:

Lesli Margherita!

Watch the full video here.

Fashionable Late Homework

2010-08-18T17:43:00.004+09:00

Dear Sussy, beloved sister of my dear musical MiM, has a photography school online. In my free time, I decided, why not brush up on Babies, Toddlers and teens?

Cue a slew of Dr's appointments, physical therapy, massages, loads of driving, and a lack of friends with child models to borrow, and a 4 day trip to California.

I find myself, long after the course has ended, just now posting shots from the one time I was able to actually get a shoot in.

Just for the record. . . Nicole's Classes are brilliant.

I, on the otherhand, am not.

Good thing the babies always are!

Give a Girl a Break, Latifah!

2010-08-18T17:24:00.004+09:00

Yoo-hoo!

Queenie!

Yes, Miss Latifah, I'm talking to you. Give a girl a break and sing this with my lovely Katie Thompson, so that she can stop looking schizo trying to sing both parts!

She is genius, and I think a petition is in order!

Please sign your name below, and we will collect gum wrappers with Katie's name written on them to throw at Queen Latifah everytime we see her.

I think that should get the message through!

Oh, Martha!

2010-08-11T12:04:00.003+09:00

I swear, even Martha Stewart can make dog poop look cute!

I just got an email from Petsmart announcing the new Martha Stewart Doggie Line, and I'm dying!

I wanna run out and buy it all!

Perfect timing as I was looking for some new duds for Penny! Can't you just imagine her in this little robe after bathtime?

Some of my other favorite accessories include the bone embroidered microfiber bath set, and the fashion carrier which for once actually looks fashionable!

Penny is gonna be one stylin' pup!

Help me Pick my top!

2010-08-05T15:31:00.012+09:00

Tomorrow I have a just-for-fun audition

(just to keep up the practice of the art of the audition.)

It's for Oklahoma. As part of my preparation for the call back, I watch the West End DVD of the show Starring the sexiest man who shall ever inhabit the earth, Hugh Jackman. I could jist Die!

Anyway, after much debate over my ensembluh for tomaruh I've decided to put it to a vote!

It will have to be quick, cause I am leaving the house at 10am tomorrow! So vote away, share your opinions and gimme the hard truth. (Plus please forgive the no make up, no lady support and late night sleepy eyes in the shots. You know I'm so perdy anyway.)

Here are the options:

A: simple sweet vintage

B: Short Vintage finished dress

C: Simple and not wanting to draw attention, but beautiful in her solid color.

D: This simple skirt created the perfect vivacious contrast with this shirt!

Two of the same skirt, Two Different lives!

Now, VOTE!

Vote over there on the side bar::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::>>>>>

The Little Black (White & Red) Coat

2010-08-04T11:23:00.009+09:00

First off,

let me just apologize for my absense in the last few months. I was injured while performing in NY and have been home recovering. The days have just slipped away, but there is so much silver lining in this rain cloud. More updates will be on the way as I make my way back to some semblance of normal.

Today, I was tempted to spend $288 plus tax on this coat. Those anthropologie kids certain do know how to tempt a girl!

As a photographer and designer, I am also a little obsessed with this framing idea! I must play and figure it out.

As for the coat, I will pray for a price drop before the temperature drops, for I don't know if I can make it through the fall without this beauty!!

baci,

kat

I have a Crush | Jamie Oliver

2010-04-02T01:59:00.003+09:00

I have a crush. . .

On Jamie Oliver.

And his Food Revolution.

And his iPhone app.

And it seems I am not the only one!

(Gwenneth Paltrow just emailed me about him :)

When his show premiered last week chronicling his passion to change the world and the health of our children, I was smitten. His sincere desire to make the world a better place is a noble cause. And his hope to improve the health of our nation and our world is one that really hits home. The incident of diabetes (especially type II) is an ever increasing number these days. It's rare for someone not to be directly connected to someone with this disease in this day.

For me, it is all to real. Having lost my Dad last year to complications from this disease, I find I am still a little raw when I hear of yet another person being diagnosed with it. In the last 10 years of my father's life, I watched him lose pieces of himself. . . it started with a toe, then a foot, then his leg. . . He started losing his vision, and before long, he had lost his zest for life; his infamous charm became clouded in a haze of blood sugar swings and muddled by a short attention span.

Most tragic of all, was that the very culprit for this chaos was the food that he so dearly loved. Chef Dan to us, he was famous for his cheesecakes, cookies and his incredible ability to make an esquisite dinner from an "empty" pantry.

This is why I am crushing on Jamie Oliver. He is celebrating food! He is teaching people to stop eating fake food, and start eating real home cooked meals! And thus, he is honoring the memories of those already taken 30-40 years before what could have been.

So I dedicate this to Daddy, and I challenge you to listen, to learn what is good for you, and finally, to take care of yourself!

Enjoy life through health and enjoy good, real food!

Thanks for the inspiration, Jamie.

kat

Kindle Song for Free

2010-04-01T11:55:00.003+09:00

Remember

when I complained that the song from the Kindle commercial was nowhere to be found?

Amazon has remedied this disasterous oversight and you can now download the free song for a limited time on Amazon.com by following this link:

miniurl.org/nck

It's called

"Stole My Heart"

by Little & Ashley

Erin Hall. . . again!

2010-03-16T14:51:00.004+09:00

You may remember her from this shoot, when she was a tall-leggy-blonde. Now, she's a tall-leggy-brunette, so we did a quick afternoon shoot in my apartment, since it was a grey rainy day here in New York!

And, just because she makes the best face . . .

Amazon Kindle Stole My Heart

2010-03-14T04:05:00.003+09:00

As a former owner (and obsessive lover) of the Amazon Kindle, I already have a very positive opinion on this fabulous little piece of electronic heaven. But, if I didn’t, this commercial certainly would entice me to give it a try! With stop action animation and a custom written song, this commercial has just become one of my newest obsessions. I immediately went to search for the download of this song, but to no avail! So, I am pleading with Amazon! Make this a full song and make it available for download so that I can simmer in it’s mood all day. The end.

Watch the video below, or click here.

Katie Thompson

2010-03-03T09:38:00.003+09:00

Katie Thompson is a brilliant singer, songwriter, actress, and friend. Last week I performed a song at her concert, and this week she and I got together for a shoot. I love my schedule full of KT! She is a natural red (and even wrote a whole musical about them! RRRED!) and thus, she is who I want to be when I grow up!

SMITTEN { A Little Night Music } on Broadway

2010-02-26T13:23:00.003+09:00

Can you believe that I once said, "I don't really get the big deal. . . why does everyone worship Stephen Sondheim?"

Can you believe I used to hate the song, "Send in the Clowns"?

Can you believe I was ever so dumb?

Wait. . . don't answer that!

Well, I have learned the error of my ways, and my teacher is none other than the marvelous and sparkling production of A Little Night Music currently starring on Broadway.

I, literally, just walked in the door and could not wait to write down my thoughts.

In the midst of yet another apocolyptical winter storm here in New York, I was lucky enough to get two tickets to the perenially sold out performance tonight.

Smitten, mesmerized, enamored . . .

From the first note of the cello, the glide of the voices, the simplicity of the set and the stunning performances, I could not have been more in love with this production!

I loved everything, but I must say that the stand out moments include:

These three had me hanging on every word. The chemis

try was palpable and real, and though I was in the back of the theatre, I felt like I was in on their every secret.

Alexander Hanson, I think I have a crush. Angela Lansbury, a legend I adore, was the ultimate voice of wisdom and sass. And Catherine surprised me with her strength and ease, along with her gorgeous voice. I used to despise the song "Send in the Clown," and now I realize it is because I never really heard it before.

Aaron Lazar is brilliantly hate-worthy, and no one is complaining when he takes his shirt of in the last 20 minutes, either.

The five lieder singers are each in their own right spectacularly talented, but beautifully subtle as they move from scene to scene.

The lighting is almost ghostly, and it makes you feel as if you are peering into someone's dream throughout the show.

And the music is somehow familiar and part of you. When I was younger, I truly didn't understand the way Sondheim's music works. I'm so grateful I get it now!

And did I mention that I laughed non-stop throughout the show? I don't know why I wasn't really expecting that.

I am in love with the costume design. . . I think I'd look pretty fabulous in Catherine's act one silver and black traveling dress!

And the ultimate honor (read artistic jealousy and respect) is to the ridiculous Leigh Ann Larkin who simply put, made me want to be her. I knew I would love her from the start of the show, and she surpassed even my expectations. She has such complete control over all that she is doing, yet lets go and makes you believe she truly lives without anyone watching. In the Miller's Son, she oozes sensuality without making you queasy. Overall, she is my favorite thing in a show of amazing things!

So, in conclusion, if you are in New York anytime in the near future (and yes, I'm talking to you family who is arriving in 3 weeks) this is a MUST SEE! Let me now what day works best for you :)

Salumi | Seattle Deliciousness with the Family

2010-02-25T03:14:00.000+09:00

So, my brother-in-law Kenneth is somewhat of a foodie! And as such, he knows all the great places to dine all over the place (thanks in part to the very educational Food Network.)

While home in January, he told me all about this little tiny shop in Seattle owned by the family of Mario Batalli.

It's called Salumi.

Well, it's really called Armandino Batali's Salumi Artisan Cured Meats, but besides the meats, everyone goes for the sandwiches. They are only open for a few hours each day, have a very limited menu, and have virtually zero space to eat. They also have a line that wraps halfway down the block.

But, oh, is it worth it!

After sufficient enticing (which took all of 30 seconds) I begged to be shown this precious magical place he spoke of. So on my last day in Seattle, Mom, Sisters, Kiddos and I ventured there to enjoy this little piece of Heaven in the Emerald City!

Seriously, try the Mole Mozzarella Sandwich!

Along for the ride are:

My Not-Quite-Twin Sister : Erin

Darling Sister Mary and baby Jay

Mia Madre

And of course, Lady-killer Luke!

Jayson in his momma-snuggie! He's killin' me with the eye contact!

Luke and I had fun while waiting in the gigantic line!

muah!

Small spaces = shoulder rides!

Gorgeous mama and her boy. Now those are some hazel eyes!

And the special of the day: Gnocchi!

Erin demonstrates the proper way to handle a meatball sandwich!

(I know, she's gonna kill me for posting this one, but sis, you look so cute, and everyone will just assume it's me, anyway!)

Flying Pigs are Everywhere!

(It's the Salumi trademark, and a path of flying pigs point the way through the downtown area to the storefront shop!)

After our hearty meal, Momma went to work while the rest of us pressed on to Pike's Place Market, and the the infamous Gum Wall in Post Alley.

This was my idea. And I loved it!

Jay and that eye contact, again!

Pretty sister #1

Pretty Sister #2

Little old me :)

"It's a PIG!"

Luke donated some coins to the pig!

The Fish Market!

Attached to this friendly fish is a fishing line, which, when unsuspecting tourists pass, a man behind the counter tugs. . . making the monkfish jump at said tourists. So funny!

Sisters outside of Sisters, the restaurant!

Okay, kids, brace yourselves for

Post Alley!!

Yummy!

Erin contemplates why she got talked into doing this. . .

But then is the first to get into the action!

Then Mary gets a little close for comfort!

My turn to SQUISH it in there!

It. Just. Looked. So. So. Yummy!!!

Yeah, right!! Ew!! I can't believe I put my face that close to it!!

Luke wants in on the action!!

"Mommy, pleeeeeease, can I have some gum?"

See what I mean about the "Lady Killer"?

Hennessey sisters showin' you how to make an exit!

"Work that booty, work that booty, make sure you don't hurt no-boody!"

Sampling one of the candies I picked up. . . reminding me of my childhood in Santa Ana.

Tamarind with chile!

Luke had so much fun, he didn't want to leave!

He makes for his escape!

But I got him!

Buh-bye Seattle! Thanks for the fabulous day!

PS- Props go out to my sisters for snapping some of these fabulous pics (especially the ones of me! I am so rarely in the photos, cause no one knows how to work my big machine!)

Best Friend Fabulousness!

2010-02-24T12:23:00.004+09:00

Can we just talk for a moment about how fabulous my friend is?

Besides her incredibly inspiring foundation PURE BEAUTY that teaches young women to live joyous and pure lives, and besides doing makeup for the entire cast of LOST, and besides jetsetting all over doing her incredible work, she has the audacity to look like this on her birthday!!!

If she weren't my best friend, I might have to hate her from jealousy!

Instead, I love her with all my heart!

Happy Birthday Month, Best Friend!!

My Gorgeous Nieces and Nephews

2010-02-17T09:39:00.003+09:00

For Christmas this year, my darling Momma decided to take us all on a family getaway. We rented a gorgeous house on Lake Washington, this January, where we all cozied up for a weekend. It was the perfect timing for me to give my family Christmas gift. . . photos of all my darling nieces and nephews.

Luke finding his inner musician!

Precious Jay finding another family trait: A love of baseball!

I can not get enough of this toosh!

Playing peek-a-boo in the loft!

I used to sleep like this. . .

stunning already!

we had some observers during our shoot

how handsome is this kid?

Okay, folks. . . this is what we call "bedroom eyes!" Watch out sis. . . he's a heartbreaker!

so much work getting into this tree, but totally worth it!

cutest smile ever!!

Stunning Savanah!

Oy, with the gorgeousness!

Pretty and pensive!

Look at this preciousness~ is that a word?

He resisted me all the way, but this is one handsome boy!

As I have become quite famous for my fish lips, it is my favorite thing to find out everyone's best "looks!" Here is a montage of my crazy kids!

All the grown ones!

Wrangling these two into the shot was no small task!

Awe. . . Love you kids!

xoxo,

Auntie Kat

Extra Shots for Caitlin

2010-02-15T13:07:00.004+09:00

Last summer I shot with the fabulous Caitlin, and recently she requested a few extra shots. I happily obliged. Here are her stunning looks. Can you believe when she came to me, she actually said that she wasn't photogenic? I beg to differ!

Open House in the Great Blizzard of 2010!

2010-02-12T12:03:00.005+09:00

Wednesday afternoon, we were knee deep into the Great Blizzard of 2010! New York was covered in white out conditions, yet over 1,000 fabulous fans came out to spend the afternoon with us at our new home on the Upper West Side, banana's in tow! It was our Banana Shpeel big Open House at the Beacon Theatre. I got to be part of the festivities, arriving in a old fashioned checkered cab, revealing the marquee, posing for lots of photos, and doing a few interviews! I was overwhelmed at the incredible response from the enthusiastic crowd, many of whom waited for hours in the crazy weather! The first hundred who arrived with a banana got a pair of free tickets to the show! I can't wait to perform for that special "bunch!"

Even through the cold and the wind, the snow and the chill, it was such a fabulous day that I won't soon forget! Thanks again to all the devoted Cirque fans!

You can click here or watch below for the video from Broadway.com.

Missing In Action

2010-01-30T12:23:00.006+09:00

Okay, so I've been a bit off the radar for a bit, I know.
But if you have been following me on Twitter then you would know, that I have been having a whole lot of fun!
I will do my best to keep you better informed, henceforth, but here's a few things you should be aware that you missed:

I am a Redhead! (Yes, I know, I've been one before, but this time is different!)

I spent a week in Hawaii, but only 24 hours of it with my dear BFF Jeshi!

Made Mommy spend lots of mula on making her house perdy!

Spent a weekend in a vacation rental with almost my entire immediate family! (There were noticable absences!)

Ate Meat Candy for the first time, and LOVED it!! (At the Pacific Grill in downtown Tacoma!)

And finally! I'm back in NYC and ramped up to get this show going!
We start previews February 25th, and open March 23rd! Get your tickets at CirqueduSoleil.com/NYC
Loving living and working at the Beacon! This is my room:

I have a 2 minute commute to work (3 minutes with elevator traffic at rush hour! :)

That should hold you over for now! I promise to give a full report soon!!

Happy New Year | Time for fun!

2010-01-02T04:20:00.002+09:00

Happy 2010 everyone! I have had a great 2009, even with all of it's challenges and losses. But overall I feel so blessed!

I am looking forward to this new year, turning over a new leaf, and setting some ambitious goals.
And of course, having lots and lots of fun!
For Christmas, Mom is giving the whole family a snowy chalet vacation!
So we are hunting for vacation rentals within an hour from Seattle, close to ski lifts, but nice enough to just stay and relax. If you know of any, let me know!
So excited to get some playtime in the snow!!

And to all of you, I wish a very Happy New Year!

So, my sister. . . .

2009-12-26T23:00:00.001+09:00

I'm sure you all are aware that I have a twin. A twin, seven years apart. But for the average person, those seven years go unnoticed, and we are commonly mistaken for eachother. . . the perfect example:

Two weeks ago when said twin came to visit me in Chicago with mom, Granny and Grampa, we took a little trip to the Apple store, where Grampa leaned into said twin's ear, thinking it was me and accidentally gave away his intended Christmas Gift Surprise for said twin. Several other times through out the trip, the same thing happened, leaving poor Grampa with the most confounded look on his face. Ahhh, our parent's narrow genetic pool has resulted in a fun little party trick!

Anyway, my beloved twin and I have a very distinguishable difference, only detected with audio sensory perception. She has the most lovely soprano voice, one that has had years of classical training that my voice severely lacks. She sent this beautiful track over and I am oohing over it's lusciousness!! And I thought the world needed to know. So here. . . please savor in the ooey gooey loveliness of my twin's rendition of "That's Him" by Kurt Weill. Yummy!
(you must click the link to listen)

PS- I am counting down the days til I see my crazy twin sis and family!
Here's the countdown clock to prove it!

MySpace-Countdown-Clocks

Opening Night Trinkets

2009-12-23T10:00:00.000+09:00

On our opening night, I made a few little trinkets for the cast.

I had the loveliest help from Ron of International Beads, Inc. Based out of Chicago, he shared is wonderful story with me, inspired me, and got me the things I needed in the nick of time!

Thank you Ron, and here are some shots of the process and the product!

Check out his website for all your bead needs!

www.beadschicago.com

The supplies:

I loved the vintage feel of the black and gold letter beads. . . so perfect for our little vaudeville show!

A work in progress. . .

The finished products:

Necklaces for the boys.

Earrings for the girls!

Countdown Mania!!

2009-12-22T23:30:00.000+09:00

As this year comes to a close, I have started to countdown.
No, not just the time left in 2009 (which is the first clock you'll see).

Countdown-Clocks

But also the time til I depart on my best friend Tropical Adventure with Jeshi.

And the time left until we open Banana Shpeel on Broadway!
Here's the clock til Previews:

Countdown Clocks, New Year Countdowns at WishAFriend.com
And a big opening night clock! Black tie Baby!

Countdown Clocks, New Year Countdowns at WishAFriend.com

So, synchronize you watched and let the tick tock begin! There is so much to look forward to!!

A View From the Top

2009-12-22T10:00:00.000+09:00

Yes, I have a good situation. This is the view from my bedroom. Try not to be too jealous :)

Thanksgiving Moments

2009-12-22T03:35:00.002+09:00

Thanksgiving day was a whirlwind for me this year. . .

It started at 5:45AM when I woke up and dashed to the Theatre.

After makeup and rehearsal, we performed in the McDonald's Thanksgiving Day parade live on TV for 5 million viewers at home.

It was raining and cold, but we had lots of fun.

I spent the rest of the day in a haze of cooking, organizing and enjoying our Thanksgiving Party.

I only grabbed my camera for a second, but these two shots captured my favorite moments of the day:

Cranberries on their way to become Cranberry sauce.

Isabella (0ur cast baby!) and Tuan Le.

Shelly Bort | 12 days of Christmas

2009-12-22T02:24:00.001+09:00

Shelly Bort is funny.

No, Shelly Bort is hysterical.

Shelly Bort is my friend.

No, Shelly Bort is my virtual friend.

We have never met, but if maybe someday we did, she would make me a video like this for Christmas. Her faces are pricesless, as are her genius lyrics:

Five Chandlier Bings!

As my gift to you, I give you my Shelly.

ChiTown

2009-12-21T17:00:00.002+09:00

I have barely had a moment to take my camera out. But I took a moment last week to snap some photos of my gorgeous historic theatre here in lovely Chi-town! I'm loving this sad, and sad to be leaving in 2 weeks! I hope someday I'll get a good excuse to come back!

Stunning Ceiling art at the historic Chicago Theatre!

The Ghost light is my favorite theatre tradition. . . it keeps away the unfriendly spirits, and keeps the theatre muse alighted!

Our sound station

Some of the famous performers to grace this stage:

The fountain Lady at house right conceals a secret passage way!!

Mommy in Montreal

2009-12-21T12:08:00.000+09:00

As you may know, I spent about 3 months in Montreal during the creation process of Banana Shpeel. While I was there, I convinced my dear mommy to come out and visit. She and I took a lovely trip to Quebec City (thanks to Roby who let us use his darling condo there) and soaked up some culture. Here are some of my favorite shots from her trip!

First Self Portrait of the trip~ ain't we cute?

It's dangerous having this place so close by!

Quebec City!

She's one of my favorite subjects to photograph!

Mommy Headshot time!

The trees were confused.

I've started collecting manhole cover photos from the places I travel.

Momma takes great pictures, too!

This darling flower shop helped us find the perfect Thank you gift for Roby!

Back in Montreal. . . the view over the city, and the Olympic Stadium.

One last French Canadian Sunset!

All I Want for Christmas Is. . . .

2009-12-18T12:55:00.000+09:00

Everyone always asks me around holidays and birthdays, "What do you want for _________?"(insert chosen holiday or birthday here)
And I always reply, "Nothing. Just something that makes you think of me."
Annoying, I know. So this year, I have finally decided to make a Wish List.
And, having been well received by my family, I have decided to send my wishes out into the universe! Should you be a sugar daddy or a generous benefactor, please feel free to pick from this list and expand upon it!
Merry Christmas!

Kat's 2009 Wish List!

By Boe Bow Necklace (also love the same earrings and the ring) (Gold or Silver, I like em both.)
http://www.byboe.com/jewelry/necklaces/reminder-bow-%28128%29-128.html

Or Pretty Much Anything from Here:
http://www.thevintagepearl.com/

Solar Quest Board Game, or other fun to play board games!

Special Keep-my-fingers-warm-while-I-use-my-iphone glove. . . Also known as the E-Tip Glove from Northface. Size Small
http://www.thenorthface.com

Comfy Cozy Toes! Anything comfy, cute, and fun is lovely!
http://www.joyofsocks.com/

A clever bag designed just for my camera's accessories:
http://shootsac.com/

Massager for my sad sore neck and back :)
http://www.brookstone.com/max-performance-percussion-massager.html

Grow my own Tomatoes and Herbs:
http://www.skymall.com/shopping/detail.htm

Pretty Hair Feathers or Fancy Hats and scarves
Like here: http://www.flocktogethernyc.com/ Or like Here: http://www.volang.com/

For the ultimate Self Portraits! Samsung DualView TL225 12.2 MP Digital Camera (Purple)

Yummy and Delicious Candle (clean burning only, please) in gorgeous containers like here:
http://www.illumecandles.com/ Or these guys from www.PotteryBarn.com

Custom Stationary or writing items.
http://www.thestationerystudio.com

I have also decided to start collecting old vintage cameras! So, if you dig around on ebay, in your neighbor's garage sale, or the local dumpster and you come across anything that might resemble anything like these, there's a good chance I'd be ecstatic!

You can get the blackbird (3 plastic ones on the right) here:
http://shopping.icp.org/store/product.html?product_id=31216

And then of course, there is my super-dream-big-giant-never-gonna-happen-fantasy-that-I-never-expect-to-get gift list:

iMac Computer or MacBook Pro from Apple.com

The Cintiq Waacom Tablet:
http://www.wacom.com/cintiq/cintiq-21ux.php

Camera Dream Items:
This Guy is the big Dream (Nikon D3). . . but this guy wouldn't leave me complaining either! (Nikon D300)

And of course a plethora of lenses and flash to work with these big daddies! (Low aperture is the priority!)

And a must have. . . Underwater housing for the big daddy Camera!

That's it!! Happy shopping y'all!! Love you!

Brenda and JP Engaged!

2009-12-14T21:33:00.000+09:00

You may remember JP from this post and this post.

JP (aka my little bro) is an incredible R&B singer who I worked with in Japan last year. He and his beautiful Brenda (a talented singer and dancer) made time for an engagement shoot earlier this year. They were married this summer, and I am finally getting around to posting the shots from their very creative engagement shoot.

We met up at the campus of Fullerton College, where they met and fell in love in the music department. They decided to do a non-traditional shoot, and instead we used 4 different themes to play with.

Without further adieu, here is Mr. and Mr. Castillo:

AKA Mr. and Mrs. Smith

If eyebrows could kill :)

The Teacher and the Nerd!

The Piano Man and his Chantuese

The Doll and her Clown

Congratulations you two!!

Banana Shpeel Video #8

2009-11-21T14:03:00.002+09:00

In this sneak peak at Vaudeville, they discuss costume and set design! It's in French, so be prepared for the subtitles, unless your parlez is up to par!
There are a few shots of me in this one, so prepare to be dazzled! ;)

ABC Covers Banana Shpeel

2009-11-20T00:34:00.002+09:00

Over the last few weeks, there has been so much media coming through, so many cameras around at all times, it's hard to keeps straight what it's all for!
But I have discovered this video on ABC full of clips of us performing, learning, and prepping for our opening night!
Check it out!

Beautiful, Pure, and Awe Inspiring

2009-11-11T22:56:00.000+09:00

I've posted before about the incredible foundation for women that my dear friend Jessica Hoffman created early this year. Today, a wonderful article appeared that shares some of the beautiful work she does with Pure Beauty Ministries.

When Jessica and I became best friends in high school, one of the things that helped us to grow so close was our shared commitment to purity. I love that she has taken something so important and made it her mission in life to share that joy with the world.

She is a remarkable woman, and I am so proud to call her my best friend.

Her next event is November 19th. If you are in the Honolulu area, be sure to come out and support her! Tickets available online!

Click here to read the wonderful article!

I'm on the Radio. . . Again!

2009-11-07T10:00:00.000+09:00

Tomorrow, Sunday, November 8th at 10:30am EST,
I return for my 2nd interview with Suko on The Matinee Show on Tameside Radio UK.
We'll chat all about my work thusfar with Cirque du Soleil, and spill some of the secrets behind our upcoming debut of Banana Shpeel!!
Though it's a UK radio station, you can listen too if you have an internet connection!
Just follow this link and click on LISTEN LIVE in the upper left corner!

Banana Shpeel Video #7

2009-11-01T12:52:00.002+09:00

Sorry I haven't been doing much posting these days! We are in Chicago, and with just 2 weeks to our first public performance, and a lot of changes taking place, it's been a relentless schedule of rehearsals, fittings and fatigue!
But it's all for the love of this wonderful work we are creating, and here's a little snippet for you!
Here's the latest behind the scene's sneak peak!
Just before we left Montreal, we filmed the commercial which is running non-stop here in Chicago!!
And for the first time, you can actually see a few shots of me! As you watch the montage, you will see a close up of me putting on my eyelashes, and that pretty mouth putting on bright pink lipstick is me too!
If you're in the Chicago area, tune in a check out the commercial!
Enjoy!

Heather | Headshots

2009-10-22T09:20:00.000+09:00

Heather and I worked together at Lululemon in New York for a brief period between performing jobs. She is a warm wonderful girl who I had so much fun with, who happens to have incredible legs!! Her gorgeous smile isn't half bad either. We played in and around my Riverside Drive apartment, working it at every turn.
This was nothing but fun!

Caitlin | Headshots

2009-10-22T09:10:00.002+09:00

Caitlin is an incredible actress. . . during our shoot, I slyly tricked her into doing her audition monologues for me, and I nearly cried. She came to me hesitant to take photos after having a bad experience in the past. She had been scarred by poor makeup, and an uncomfortable setting, but I'm glad that she was willing to give it one more try.
I brought out my fabulous friend Dara Klein of DaraMascara.com, to work her magic. Dara brought out Caitlin's natural beauty, and gave her that comfort and warmth as only Dara can.
The rain held out just long enough for us to work it in the magical light!
Thanks Caitlin for an incredibly fun afternoon!

Suzie

2009-10-13T10:13:00.002+09:00

Suzie has one of those infectious smiles that leave you giggling at every moment.

Melissa Ryan

2009-10-12T23:53:00.003+09:00

Back in July, I shot with Melissa Ryan, and beautiful dancer and fitness model. Working with the rainy day, we had to find covered locations, and decided to pop into my favorite neighborhood restaurant, Covo Trattoria, to use their big lounge for some shots.
She attracted quite a crowd, but worked her magic, even under the pressure.

I love Autumn! and Cannelle et Vanille!

2009-10-06T09:38:00.003+09:00

As with many people I know, the crisp cool of the Autumn air, and the glorious turning of the leaves to gold, red and orange, brings a certain sparkle of possibility to the days, that makes this my favorite time of year!

Along with that lovely breeze of change, comes a change in my appetite too!
Farewell salads and strawberries, hello hearty soups and potatoes!

My favorite food blog has just enticed me to take on this challenge!

Roasted Apples with Almond and Muscovado Crumble and Marzipan Ice Cream

I've been reading Cannelle et Vanille ever since lovely Nicole (of A Little Sussy) blogged about her!
Not only does she make incredible recipes of delectable desserts, but as a food stylist & photographer, she makes my mouth water at every click!
Warning! This is not a website for the weight-loss challenged!

I vow to take on this delectable dessert the moment I get home to Washington!
Til then, I shall dream and drool!

Swim, Swim, Swim

2009-10-03T11:31:00.003+09:00

I should be sleeping, since I have to get up very early to film our first commercials for the show, but instead, I found myself loving this video on Vimeo. . .
I want to be in a swimming pool with my nieces and nephews right now!

Til then, this will have to suffice.
These may not be my nieces and nephews, but they are certainly cute!

Swim Swim Swim from Evan Senn on Vimeo.

Roby Talbot | Montreal

2009-09-27T22:37:00.000+09:00

This week was a long one. . . with 66 hours of rehearsal scheduled, it was a lucky break that I had a night off to get some photo work done!
But now with just 2 weeks to go until we leave Montreal, the heat is on.
I hope you like your Banana's flambeed!

In that free time, I was able to wrap up the editing I gave you a sneak peak of a few weeks back. Here is my handsome and debonaire French friend Roby in all his sexy goodness. . .
He has those trademark bedroom eyes!
Oh, how I adore him!!

Self Portrait

2009-09-22T00:42:00.000+09:00

My dear friend Mim has a fabulous sister, Sussy.

(These are not their actual names, but their vv famous blog names.)

Sussy is a fabulous photographer who inspires me daily with her blog. And she recently challenged her readers to do a self portrait. I decided to play along and will now share with you a few of my favorites.

I took these while testing makeup for my fabulous new show (Banana Shpeel. . . Have you heard enough about it yet? )

While this is not my actual makeup for the show, I thought it was still amazing!

Clowns in a NYC Sports Bar | BANANA SHPEEL

2009-09-21T22:32:00.000+09:00

As part of the new web-commercials for our show, our two clown/goons from the show went to New York to start settling in. You can see the series of commercials by checking out
Cirque's new New York City page here!
(how amazing is the design of that page, eh?)
I laugh hysterically at these guys every day. . . it's time you should too!!

Hope

2009-09-21T10:21:00.000+09:00

I love the videos my church creates for youtube, which take sections of beautiful inspiring messages and combines them with beautiful imagery. As I look forward to our semi-annual general conference in two weeks, I am grateful for this inspiring message to give me a glimpse of what's to come!

Thanks to my dear Erin of C'est Jolie for sharing this!