Jaymes Leavitt Photography

Mr Mason - This man's got style

2010-07-14T19:55:00.001-04:00

Mr Mason, CEO of Handsome Boy Clothing has got to be the coolest guy I have ever met. His style is amazing and his clothing line shows it. While we were hanging out he was telling me how he likes all things vintage and I said "Lets shoot that Continental in the driveway. " Mr mason smiled. I love the cowboy boots too.

Write It Down!

2010-07-14T19:35:00.003-04:00

I am a visual person and I know that I am no Hemingway when it comes to writing! I recently photographed a poet friend of mine who goes by the pen name "Sirius Black" and this man seriously inspired me. Sirius Black is performing his works and reading his poetry wherever and whenever he can. He is passionate about his work. We talked about how he became a poet and his inspiration behind his writing. After hearing how he deals with things by writing it down, and how his writing helps him figure things out, I started to try this. It works! Writing things down gets it off your mind quickly and lets you come back to it with a refreshed sense of things. I have adopted this practice and it works well. I can write something down and not feel like I have to remember all the complicated info... the facts and the details etc. I can come back to it later and it is all right there. This frees me up and I don't feel like I have to memorize everything. Writing is very powerful and it can be very helpful to solve a lot of problems and to just figure things out. Next time you have to solve a problem or deal with an issue? Just write it all down. The pieces seem to come together and make sense once you write it down.

Photoshelter Website

2010-07-07T10:38:00.006-04:00

Musicians - Images by Jaymes Leavitt

A new gallery of images on my Photoshelter website

Looking for an image? Search My Photoshelter Galleries

Why Online Visitors Wont Trust You or Your Company

2010-01-03T12:42:00.052-05:00

The internet has been the largest snake oil market in the world. Many consumers are skeptical or suspicious about the functional mechanisms of electronic commerce and the quality of many products that are offered online. Every now and again is good to see some of the worst websites ever voted on http://www.webpagesthatsuck.com/, I come across these types of web sites from time to time, especially with smaller businesses. I cringe at this because I know that so many people are turned off by a low quality and non functional website. It might even be a genuinely trusted vendor... the packaging and presentation of web content is just as important online as it is in stores. Successful entrepreneurs understand that amazing creative and thought out designs are crucial for attracting and fostering trust. Businesses online who are able to gain consumers trust will be one of the deciding factors for who makes it in 2010.

Michael Wollner, an award winning designer and marketing strategist in CA, wrote an amazing article on his blog about the power of image and what it can do for your company in today's market. You Should give it a read. ---> http://tinyurl.com/ybncafz

Ball In The House

2009-12-22T16:45:00.008-05:00

Ball in The House has performed in hundreds of venues from coast to coast. These guys are the best a-cappella group I have ever heard. They have also opened for some of the biggest acts in the music industry. The Temptations, Cher and the Beach Boys to name a few. Dave Guisti, founding member is from Dorchester and they formed the group in 2000. I got this shot at a performance at the Cambridge YMCA Theater.

The Power Of Photography

2009-12-21T21:13:00.002-05:00

What can we do to change the pressing environmental issues we face today? I am confident that I have seen it in action! E-inc has been promoting after school science programs for kids that help teach fundamental ways to help protect the environment. The children are very aware of the issues and it is amazing to see the younger generation taking action. The most gratifying thing to me is when my images are used in such a meaningful way. They do a lot of great activities including field trips, experiments, and hands-on lessons. Each participant gets a Planet Protector award for completing the curriculum.

Should I Retouch My Headshot?

2009-12-21T18:57:00.014-05:00

A good 8x10 headshot is an integral part of the marketing mix for everyone, including actors, musicians, comedians, dancers, and other performers. Headshots make the first impression and retouching the headshot is an important part of building the 'brand' of the subject. Maybe the subject came to the shoot that day and had a few blemishes that makeup couldn't hide. Maybe the concealer wasn't doing the job. Today's pro digital re-touchers are all about thinning out cheeks, elongating eyebrows and even dilating the pupils to enhance attractiveness. But how much retouching is reasonable?

Most casting directors encourage a little retouching as they want to see your best look. Casting directors know that on most commercial and advertising jobs there are makeup artists and retouching is frequently done. Thus, spotting prints or removing dust spots from a digital image is crucial. The great portrait photographer George Hurell in the 1930's did a lot of retouching on his photographs of actors. In that era, it was standard to spend hours retouching a negative so that the photograph could be as flawless as possible.

However, overdoing the retouching can lead to disaster. The photographer or filmaker will realize very quickly, even at first sight, that your "real" look is not like the original 8x10. The rule of thumb for retouching headshots is to only remove small blemishes, cuts, bruises, flyaway hairs, loose threads or to lighten shadows below the eyes. Do not remove any noticeable birthmarks or freckles. Any type of major transformation should be avoided. Compare the 'before' and 'after'; the difference should be subtle. Skin smoothing and softening can be okay if you want this technique although it should be extremely light. A good photograph that actually looks real has a little texture to it.

Today, with a lot of photoshop 'do it yourselfers', the amateur retoucher can easily be spotted by a trained eye. An editor who has looked at thousands of photos has seen it all. When it is overdone it will be noticeable. The professional retoucher uses complex techniques that retain the true-to life feel of an image. The best thing to do is to have the photograph retouched lightly if it needs any retouching at all. Keep it looking natural and engaging.

Your look is your marketing tool and your brand. You should make it the best it can be. Just don't overdo it!

Photograph - Actress Paulie McCormack by Jaymes Leavitt

Nice use of photography

2009-12-15T11:58:00.006-05:00

Jyshoun has put together a very cool looking Myspace layout with awesome use of the photographs we did. There is a little mystery and coolness to this page that is intriguing These images have been working real hard for Jyshoun... I got a chance to see some of his EPK and advertising... it looks amazing! Jyshoun is about to explode on the scene... His music is fabulous..sexy and smooth. He has been getting a lot of love from fans and am proud to have been a part of this project with Jyshoun

Editors Choice...

2009-12-01T22:20:00.006-05:00

I had a nice surprise the other day to find that I was chosen by the Editors of the Behance network to be featured in the Photography Served section. The image gallery can be seen at www.photographyserved.com

Holiday Special---> 20% off a Photo Session

2009-11-20T15:51:00.003-05:00

The best gift during the holidays is a gift that will be remembered forever. Take 20% off your booking price with Jaymes Leavitt. This coupon is good only until January 10, 2010.

http://url2it.com/bkgm

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photoInstitute.net

2009-10-12T11:58:00.004-04:00

Jaymes Leavitt teams up with Photo-Institute , to teach an online workshop on Editorial Portraiture. The workshop starts November 3rd and meets once a week for 8 weeks. Details can be seen at this link http://www.photoinstitute.net/editorial-photography.html.

Maharishi Ayurveda

2009-10-05T12:39:00.006-04:00

Photographing at the Maharishi Center was an enlightening experience. It was interesting learning about this centuries old health technique. The shot list was extensive and it was 3 long days... especially when we were also shooting HD Video! Organizing a fantastic team is so valuable for a project of this scope. Thank you DP John Rizzo for your video expertice... COCO from Ennis Inc for making everyone look amazing... Suzanne from Imagemakers... Tonn Models and all the staff who participated at the Maharishi Center. The photography came out fantastic and I will also have a reel to show soon too!

The Dreams Shall Never Die

2009-09-02T15:30:00.006-04:00

"The work goes on, the cause endures , the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die" - Senator Edward 'Ted' Kennedy 1932-2009 This photograph was taken at the Blue Cross Blue Shield Summit on Healthcare at the JFK library in 2006. The frame was captured at the moment of Kennedy's closing remarks. The inspiration on Teddy's face really shines through.

The Stork Club

2009-09-01T12:17:00.003-04:00

The Stork Club is Boston's newest Jazz club. The image I produced for advertising the Jazzy Sexy Cool Sundays was a smash hit. The idea behind the shoot was to create an image that reflects the theme of the night. We wanted to attract a Jazz and nightlife crowd that is sophisticated, classy and fun. The club was at full capacity ALL NIGHT! Image is everything.

E-Inc

2009-08-25T11:36:00.003-04:00

This project I had photographed for E-Inc, an environmental and educational after school program, was one of the best so far. The kids went into the woods to learn about their environment and to do some 'Hands on' research. It was so cool to see the group explore ecosystems, plants, bugs, and animals. One of the best parts about this program is that it prepares the younger generation to be aware of the impact we have on our environment and how, together, we can help preserve our natural environment.

Mighty Mystic!

2009-08-16T20:27:00.002-04:00

I always enjoy working with creative and talented artists and now I have a new favorite. Mighty Mystic. An amazing and inspiring individual. A genuine rising star on the fast track to becoming a superstar... originally from Jamaica and living in Boston, he posed for me in Medford's acclaimed sound studio Jewels ENT. This was a cover shot for Mixture Magazine

JyShoun Shoot

2009-08-16T19:55:00.001-04:00

These two frames are from a recent project with R+B Singer JyShoun for his EPK, promotions, and marketing. JyShoun has worked with many groundbreaking artists including Keyshia Cole and let me tell you...it was awesome hearing him in the studio. Thank you Perry at Cybersound Studio for giving us unrestricted access. Jy's singing absolutely melted Erin Beasley's heart when she accidentally walked onto our set.

PCITY Media Shoot

2009-08-16T19:04:00.000-04:00

This is a nice promo I photographed, commissioned by P-City Media, a Video and Web Site production company. I worked with P-City Media on an EPK and these photographs came out amazing.

CAG Solutions

2009-08-14T13:29:00.002-04:00

Lucinda Doran, President of CAG Solutions, commissioned a portrait for her business website, capabilities, and brochures. It was a pleasure working with Lucinda and helping her with one of the most important marketing tools - a fantastic image that represents her company. Nothing compares to the power of a quality image.

Charlyne Yi and Jake Johnson

2009-07-31T11:25:00.000-04:00

Paper Heart is a film I recommend seeing. It is an interesting story about the search for love and is very well done. At the Boston Screening, Charlyne Yi and Jake Johnson made an appearance and I was able to do a small photo session after the Q+A. Charlyne's portrait captures the essence of her character.

Ed Helms

2009-07-17T06:04:00.000-04:00

It was a pleasure to have met with Ed Helms for an Interview about the new film The Hangover. It was interesting that he mentioned how his role in the TV series The Office has inspired him. My assistant Sarah is a big fan and she was thrilled when I told her who we were going to photograph!

Armando Iannucci Shoot

2009-05-08T15:16:00.000-04:00

I recently photographed Director Armando Iannucci who has a new film out called In The Loop starring Peter Capaldi, Tom Hollander, Mimi Kennedy, and James Gandolfini. Armando talked about his new film and it was a real inspiration. I can't wait to see it!

Bestor Cram

2009-04-24T09:02:00.000-04:00

Film Directors are the most incredible personalities, especially Director Bestor Cram who I had photographed. Bestor has a new film documentary about Johnny Cash currently released called Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1334247/ His dedication and commitment to the art of film making is extraordinary. The video interview with David Kleiler, the former Artistic Director of the Coolidge Corner Movie Theatre in Brookline, and founder and director of Local Sightings Massachusetts can be seen on www.Beanywood.com

New Stock Library

2009-04-14T16:08:00.000-04:00

I have a new stock library hosted on http://www.photoshelter.com. Looking for images? Try searching my Stock Photography Library at the link below... If you can't find what you are looking for try calling me at 617-680-5477 because I could have a photograph of something that has not yet been scanned.

Jay Giannone

2009-04-12T09:57:00.000-04:00

Actors are the best to photograph. Jay Giannone's shoot was spectacular. We met up at his home in Southie and spent the afternoon together. His energy and personality is remarkable. I did not know that world renowned photographer John Huet found Jay at Fenway Park scalping tickets one day when Jay was just a teenager and ended up casting him in several print ads for Chuck Taylor. Jay has since become an ambitious actor... he had a part in Gone Baby Gone as 'Steve' in the bar scene where he was telling Patrick (Casey Affleck) - about Helene (Amy Ryan) the night Amanda (Madeline O'Brien) was kidnapped. Jay is currently in " what doesnt kill you" it stars Ethan Hawke, Mark Ruffalo, Amanda Peet, Donnie Wahlberg, and Brian Goodman... its in the boston film fest next week. Jay was also in The Departed, Entourage and Pacific Blue, as well as many other films. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0316310/ - It was so funny that we ran into Joey McIntyre's dad at the cafe! Jay has a new film coming out called "Scalpers" and you can see more info about this film at http://scalpersthemovie.com/

Dick Doherty - Comedian

2009-04-11T11:23:00.000-04:00

It was a pleasure working with Dick Doherty...he is such an interesting person. I love comedy and I captured the essence of his personality with this shot. His kindness and humility shows through. Over 40 years in the comedy business, he runs the Beantown Comedy Vault. His background is fascinating. His stories about the shows at the Copa in NY and in Atlantic City are hilarious. I did not know that he also owned a club at the Charles Playhouse called the "Improper Bostonian"... 10 years before the Ding Ho was around - where so many Comedians like Steven Wright, Jimmy Tingle, and Dennis Leary got their start. His stories about growing up in an Irish family really made me smile! It was also very inspirational to hear about someone who has overcome adversity and hardship so many times in his life to do what he loves best. Comedy. You should see one of his shows! He is the best! got to http://www.dickdoherty.com/ to see a schedule

Nate Landers Poster

2009-04-10T11:43:00.000-04:00

It's awesome when you get a chance to work with talented people. Nate Landers, Musician, Pianist And author of the autobiographical book "A Walking Peace" http://www.amazon.com/Walking-Peace-Nathan-C-Landers/dp/0971628505 Nate commissioned a series of portraits for his new poster promoting his singe 'Lifeline' The responses have been just fabulous. Realizing the power of strong images.... Nate booked another shoot.

New Blog

2009-04-07T10:36:00.000-04:00

I have just started a new blog as an addition to my web presence. It's a great way for people to see what new projects I am working on and for potential new clients to read a little about me and what I do. I will be posting a lot more in this blog. Jaymes

New Website Updates

2009-04-07T09:55:00.000-04:00

I have updated the design of my website and added a re-designed splash page and a new menu page. I would be delighted to hear what people think if you have a moment, go to http://www.jaymesleavitt.com

2009-04-07T09:53:00.000-04:00

Check out my online portfolio at the link http://www.jaymesleavitt.com