Barbara Sklar Studios, Vernon Township

What services does your business offer and what makes your business stand out from the competition?

_Our studio is unique in that it is run by a photographer who has a extensive background in as a director in theater, radio & tv, film making and fashion photography. As a true fashion & entertainment specialist, I work to create images that tell a story in a variety of compelling ways that truly focus on the individual needs & desires of my client. When a client comes to me, I do more than click a few nicely lit photos, I listen..and then I create a visual and a experience that is fully engaged in bringing them to life in an image that will last forever. We offer full make-overs: hair, make-up and wardrobe styling for photo sessions and lifestyle, photography sessions and video reels for personal & professional branding, and enjoyable classes for those who seek to learn a new skill ,as well as, those who simply want to experience what it is like to be a top model, set designer or photographer for the day!

What was the inspiration to start or run this business?

Oh goodness, truth is, I love giving people an opportunity to see themselves in a new light. Too many people have no idea how beautiful they truly are, how attractive they can be, how to brand themselves effectively or even how to restyle themselves to reflect who they truly are inside. After all these years working with designers, models and actors creating "looks", I know how to visually see the most interesting and most subtle characteristics in a person or family and, bring them into the light perfectly.

What do you love most about your job?

I love creating experiences and images that people feel mesmerized by, especially when it is themselves they are staring at.... and more than that I am passionate about making people feel that they REALLY matter! I love afterwards, when people breathe and say "Thank you" , because it's from the heart every time... I know they recognize the care and professionalism I put forth for them..and that they appreciate that everyone on my team wants the very best for them throughout their entire experience!

What is the best reaction you've ever gotten from a customer?

I was personally compelled to create an art piece for a family that lost their child, and was respectfully nervous about whether it would upset them during such a difficult time in their lives. One day, I was pretty much taken to me knees when they personally visited me to express how much the piece meant to them and further requested that I create another significant tribute that was outside of my expertise. When I said I had no experience in what they were asking, he politely said, my wife and I really believe you can. Seeing that kind of trust in my vision and creativity, gives me the most unexplainable heartfelt honor that makes me thank God for a creative gift that can bring beauty and light into the world.