Chic Critique Forum

Stephanie Piscitelli, owner of Bellini Portraits, is one of Boston’s most sought after photographers for newborn, children’s and family portraits. In business since 2007, her name and brand have become synonymous with creamy, soft, and airy imagery. Stephanie’s work has been featured on popular photography blogs such as Clickin’ Moms, Evoking You, Lemonade & Lenses, and Featured Photographers. Most notably, she was one of three photographers asked to contribute to the e-book, “For the Love”, by world renowned photographer Barb Uil of Jinky Art. Stephanie’s commercial work includes fashion photography for The Measure, Little Goodall, and for numerous newborn accessory designers. She is a regular contributor to Bay State Parent Magazine with 2 fashion editorial spreads and 4 magazine covers under her belt.

Stephanie, what camera do you use and what is your favorite lens?
Canon 5D Mark II. Favorite lens is 50mm 1.2L and 85 1.2L are a tie!

What 3 words would you use to describe your style?
airy, soft and creamy

Where do you pull your inspiration from?
fashion and travel magazines, commercials, dreams, music.

What is one specific way that you balance work and family?
I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without the help of our incredible nanny. She is here 4 days per week and the other day my mother in law comes to help out. What’s hardest is telling myself that a working day is over because as business owner you never stop thinking about the things that you need to get done or the things you would still like to accomplish. I could work until midnight every night and there would still be something I could be doing!! Its never-ending, but I love it just the same

Best biz/photo advice?
Not all business is good business. My husband taught me this one! You really need to know when to say no and it’s ok to do so!

What have you learned the hard way?When I first started out I was easily persuaded in to advertising whether in local parent magazines or online. After spending thousands of dollars and really having no response from those ads I realized that word of mouth from happy clients was my best form of advertising!

How does your business deal with the rise in photographers. What have you done to standout and compete?
Keep shooting to let those creative juices flow so you will keep growing. Be true to you AND your brand. Don’t worry about what everybody else is doing, being you and only you will help you stand out.

Where have most of your 2012 clients come from (besides WOM)?
I would have to say that 90% of my clients come from word of mouth. Other than that it would be Facebook and Google!

What has been the best workshop or convention you’ve attended so far?
Barb Uil’s workshop was by far the most inspirational as well as the most organized. Definitely worth the money which is not something I normally say after returning from workshops–unfortunately!

What is your most popular product?
Canvases with decorative borders.