Portrait Tips and Career Advice for Photographers

from the funny and talented Jessica Sterling

Watch Video. 

Some photographers take themselves very seriously. Jessica Sterling is not one of them. And we mean that in the BEST way possible. For this episode of AYP Show, we got to sit down with the amazing, talented, funny Jessica Sterling. Her take on photography is refreshing and inspiring. She shares her knowledge and tips on taking portraits of some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Like Ashton Kutcher, Hugh Jackman and Steven Spielberg.

“I love people and photographing people. I love being invited into their world.”

She gave us her hard won advice for helping people relax and feel comfortable on camera, use of speed lights, and “developing” a shot to get the final image and other valuable tips. She then talked about her passion of helping other photographers advance in their careers. Jessica brings her engaging blend of energy, humor and a very refreshing outlook to AYP, joining us as a coach sharing her experience and expertise to help you advance your photography to the next level.

You can watch her video here!

Quick Bio:

• Jessica Sterling is a successful portrait and business photographer — in the very competitive Los Angles arena.
• Her work has appeared in MTV, CNN and the Wall Street Journal
• -She’s photographed for brands like DIRECTV, ATT, T Mobile, Avon, and the LA Dodgers.

Check out her website.

Quick Tips: 

Biggest challenges is getting people to feel comfortable.

Talk to people as you photograph them.

Encourage them- tell them how awesome they look!

It’s impossible for them to know how they look- so it’s important to stay positive.

She’s a big fan of speed lights: they’re mobile and fast.

“You are not the judge of whether your work is good enough… !”

Cut the negativity.

You have to talk about your work! You don’t have to talk about yourself.

If you’re passionate about what you do– get off your butt–and know that it’s your duty to share your passion with the world!

Final thoughts…

When you’re photographing people, talk to them and direct them. If the shot doesn’t look great, don’t be afraid to move the subject around.

Work with the shot until it works.

Shoot more. But be comfortable with your equipment so you can move quickly and keep the clients happy!

You can follow Jessica on Instagram @jessicasterlingphoto and see more of her work on her website,

Her Equipment

Softlighter https://bhpho.to/2CeB66Q
Nikon Speed lights https://bhpho.to/2EllVio