Pixies Photography Minneapolis

While working as a makeup artist in Southern California, Pixies Photography cofounder Kelly was floored by how ordinary most of the models appeared. She realized that perfect beauty could only emerge after intense cosmetic work and postproduction edits—and that, therefore, anyone could achieve it. So, she teamed up with salon-owner Stephanie to establish a studio where women of all backgrounds could tap into a starlet's confidence and poise.

Before their shoots, the duo oversees hair, makeup, and wardrobe services before capturing clients in sultry pinup poses, drawing from a closet full of vintage costumes and lacy lingerie. They then fade imperfections from the proofs according to the subject's wishes, which might request a light re-touching or a full overhaul. The sizzling portraits appear as prints, photo albums, and calendars, which make for playful gifts to significant others on an anniversary or prospective employers after an interview.