I am in the process of updating my website. The picture in the “about me” section is old . . . very old. So, I decided to get my friends Karen and Lynn (aka Thelma and Louise) to take some head shots of me today. I’ve been taking pictures of them with their families for several years – but this was the first time they had taken pictures of me. And I must say, they enjoyed it a little too much! I told them I wasn’t too picky about my picture – I just wanted to look young, thin, and fun. Karen’s response was that all of their pictures show people who look young, thin and fun – so no problem. I should mention that Karen and Lynn shoot youth sports – and do a wonderful job. So, their average client is about 8, skinny as a rail, and happy to pose with a soccer ball on their knee. I, on the other hand, haven’t seen young in several decades. Nor have I ever, ever been thin. And being in front of the camera instead of behind it isn’t my idea of fun.

I set my camera settings the way I wanted them (because everyone knows I’m a control freak) and handed the camera off to Lynn. Karen’s job was to keep me entertained – which she certainly did. I tried several expressions but found I can’t really pull off a serious look. Especially when Karen is making me laugh – which she does without even trying. Some people have really great serious looks. When I try – I just look mean and angry.

And for all of you who hate to have your portraits made – but do it anyway so you’ll have a record for your children and grandchildren . . . I now feel your pain. I can’t say I enjoyed today’s shoot, but I’m so glad I did it. Since I’m always the one behind the camera, there were no pictures of me. Now there are – thanks to my very good friends.

Karen and Lynn did a wonderful job. Now I have to choose which picture to use on the website. So, I’m asking for your help. Use the comment section to vote and tell me which head shot you like the best. And check my website www.elisebeall.com in a couple of weeks to see the updates.