Category: Anna Cillan Updates

Here you’ll find updates to my business in response to Covid19 and general operating procedures as Illinois begin to reopen. If you have any questions at all, please email me directly at: anna@annacillan.com

Sep 13

A little fall of Rain

A little Fall of Rain

“…Can hardly hurt me now…you’re here…that’s all I need to know” ~ Les Miserables

Holy rain Batman! When I first began my photography journey, there is no way you would find me out there with my camera until I just tried it out on a light drizzly day.

You would think light would be an issue but it’s almost quite the opposite. The clouds act as a natural diffuser thus emitting softer lighter leading to more even light all around.. Whew that was a mouthful but do you see where I’m going?

Take a look at some of the Pros and Cons to shooting in light rain. 

 

Pros

  • Beautiful even light from the naturally diffused light
  • Some clients have sensitive eyes, so the soft light helps
  • Sidewalks and streets have a wonderful sheen to them
  • Cool weather
  • Hardly anyone around resulting in less post processing work 
  • The rain brings out the bold pops of colors in nature
  • Less glare in glasses
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Cons

  • Too much rain on your gear could cause damage (cover your gear or use an umbrella)
  • Hair may get wet so take your best shots in the beginning
  • Sitting on surfaces may be too wet (bring a towel)
  • May be a lil cool so bring a jacket

The benefits definitely outweigh the cons, but make sure you have an umbrella. Besides, it makes a great prop. So when you find that your shoot lands on a drizzly day, don’t say no..say YES Please!

Here are shots from my super fun shoot today with Genevieve in the lovely grounds of Lincoln Park in Chicago! And if you love these branding shots as much as I do, Come book your session with me today! www.annacillan.com
May 22

In Studio Sessions open 6/1 & Updated Studio Safety Guidelines

According to the Chicago Tribune’s latest headliner…

“Chicago will cautiously reopen in early June, begin easing restrictions on some businesses and activities, Mayor Lori Lightfoot says” Full Article

 

What does this mean?  Yes I’ll be scheduling my in studio headshot sessions June 1st.  I cannot wait!!  Click here for more headshot session detail.
I’ve just released a handful of new headshots and I am looking for more of you out there to get your looks updated.  Here are a few.
David

That said. the Studio Safety Guidelines are now updated.

  1. Studio is stocked with disinfectants, sanitizers and cleaning supplies
  2. Photographer and clients are required to wash hands before undergoing the photo session
  3. Anna Cillan Photography is following a rigorous cleaning regimen before and after each studio session
  4. If the photographer or clients feels any flu-like symptoms, the session will be cancelled.
  5. If you or someone you are in close contact with are sick within 48 hours of your session, please cancel immediately.

Cancellation Policy:

  1. All cancelation fees will be temporarily waived to ensure the studio is a safe environment for other clients and staff.
  2. I will help you reschedule your session for a later date.
May 05

Phase 2 of Restore Illinois means let’s responsibly plan out Mini Sesssions!

Here is the official plan Gov. Pritzker released for the phased approach to restore Illinois program. Currently we are in Phase 2, which means we can be outdoors, yet with masks and #socialdistancing.

To that, I am launching Mini sessions for 1 week in June and July.  These sessions will be 30 min in duration and will include 12 images at $295.  For Healthcare workers, I will be adding in special bonus shots for you for free.  Additionally, I am going to gently open some mini sessions in the Pilsen/University Village area for the month of May on a case by case basis.  Contact me directly at 312.572.9783

Headshot studio sessions are still on target to soft open starting June 1st which currently aligns with the Phase 3 Recovery stage date. (crossing fingers health overall is improving)

Throughout it all, I’m a big fan of the face mask so you’ll see me with either a pink bandana or a Cubbies mask.  I can wait to see you, but I am soooo looking forward to capturing your life moments.

To get updates on the latest for Anna Cillan Photography, subscribe below.

To read the full article on Restoring Illinois plan on NBC Chicago, read here.

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May 01

ATC Photography – Covid-19 Statements & Updates

It is now May 1st and some stores are re-opening up, but given that it only takes one person to pass on the virus, we all still need to practice proper safety precautions.

As of Thursday, April 23 Gov. J.B. Pritzker has extended the “stay-at-home” order for all Illinois residents through May 30.  That said certain rules will be put in place as of May 1st including mandatory wearing of face masks in most public settings but will also allow some businesses and state parks to reopen and free golfers to get back to the links.

It will also permit hospitals to again offer some types of elective surgeries, giving relief to patients whose procedures had been put on hold because of the pandemic.  Read more here.

 

That said, I will gently reopen outdoor sessions with the following Covid-19 Sanitation and Safety measures and conditions

  1. Will be wearing a face mask
  2. One Session per day
  3. Groups of no more than 10 people
  4. All props will be adequately sanitized between before and after shoots
  5. No outside props
  6. Props and Fabrics to be sanitized right before use
  7. No pets allowed unless it is purely a pet portrait shoot (can be flexible on this one)
  8. Sanitize hands often during the shoot
  9. Will practice social distancing

Indoor Studio Sessions which mainly apply to Headshot Sessions have a tentative open date of June 1, 2020.  Please note that this date is subject to change with the climate of Covid-19.

Covid-19 Sanitation Process for the In Studio Sessions are the following:

  1. I will be wearing a face mask
  2. One Session per day (meaning 1 headshot session)
  3. Will practice social distancing
  4. Sanitize hands often during the shoot
  5. Shoes will be asked to be removed
  6. Proper hand-washing upon entry
  7. Studio will be properly sanitized between shoots
  8. Wardrobe will be required to be freshly laundered