Caffeine & Confidence: A Morning in the Cristina Stoian Portraits Studio

It’s 9:30 A.M. at the studio loft at Cristina Stoian Portraits. The crew is still adjusting the window lights, casting a honeyed glow over the distressed white walls. An assistant—hired just for the morning—works quietly in the corner, the hiss of the coffee machine cutting through the murmur of pre-shoot chatter. The air smells of freshly ground coffee, dark and rich, the kind that kicks your senses awake.
Two stylists orbit you, one dabbing a last bit of highlighter along your cheekbones, the other fussing with the drape of your blazer. The photographer, a brisk girl in all black, scrolls through test shots on her camera, nodding to herself. You take a slow sip from the blue porcelain cup—black, no sugar—feeling the caffeine hit your veins like a jolt of quiet confidence.
Outside, the city is still shaking off its dawn haze. But in here, under the heat of the window lights, everything is sharp, deliberate. The stylist steps back, satisfied. The photographer lifts her head. “Alright,” she says, raising the camera. “Let’s make them look twice.”
You set the coffee down, square your shoulders, and turn toward the lens — ready.

More Than a LinkedIn Photo: How a Professional Headshot Captured My Career Transformation

She Didn’t Need a New Headshot. Until She Realized She Wasn’t the Same Person Anymore.

Her old LinkedIn photo was fine.
Polished. Professional. Safe.

But here’s the problem: It was a relic.

A snapshot of who she used to be—not the leader she’d become.

Because somewhere between then and now, she’d outgrown it:
No longer just a marketer—but a strategist shaping visions.
No longer just a networker—but a community builder rallying change.
No longer waiting for permission—but writing her own rules.

And yet… her profile still showed the old her.

What She Thought She Was Updating:

A sharper headshot.
A more “current” look.
“Just something that that feels more up-to-date?”

What She Actually Gained:

A visual declaration—”This is who I am now.”
The moment she saw the shot and thought, “Yes. That’s the woman who’s building what’s next.”
Not just a photo, but proof of her own evolution.

Because here’s the truth no one talks about:

Your headshot isn’t just a photo.
It’s a timestamp of your ambition.
A mirror held up to your current self—not the version you’ve outgrown.

This Isn’t About Vanity

It’s about alignment—the kind that:
✔️ Makes clients say, “She gets where I’m headed” before you even speak.
✔️ Silences the inner critic whispering “Who do you think you are?” with “This is exactly who I am.”
✔️ Turns imposter syndrome into ownership.

The best part? She didn’t “level up.”
She just finally let her visuals catch up to her reality.

Portrait of Veronica Guguian taken by Cristina Stoian

Portrait of Veronica Guguian taken by Cristina Stoian

NewBeginnings  MarketingStrategist  CommunityBuilder  BoldVision  AuthenticityInAction”

 

Is your profile photo introducing you—or undermining you?

Learn More

Amsterdam photographer

The Best Amsterdam Photographer for High-End Headshots & Confident Portraits

In a city as dynamic as Amsterdam, your image shouldn’t hold you back—yet so many professionals settle for stiff, unnatural headshots.

Not everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera—and that’s where I come in. As a master poser, I’ve perfected the art of guiding you through every step of the process, from subtle adjustments to natural expressions. Whether you’re camera-shy or unsure how to pose, I’ll transform your experience into one of ease and confidence. Together, we’ll capture the authentic, powerful, and professional version of YOU—because your best side deserves to be seen.

As a leading Amsterdam photographer, I’ve mastered the science of flattering poses and authentic expressions. Whether you need LinkedIn headshots or luxury branding portraits, my Amsterdam studio is designed for high-end results.

Why Amsterdam Professionals Need High-End Photography 

Photo Is Your First Impression—Make It Remarkable

  • Blurry selfies or outdated corporate photos make you look unprofessional.
  • Posing awkwardly can undermine your confidence (and your brand).

Let’s face it: In today’s digital world, your photo is often the first handshake you never get to give. A blurry selfie or an outdated corporate headshot can make you look unprofessional, unrelatable, or worse—unmemorable. And in a city like Amsterdam, where innovation and personal branding thrive, settling for ‘good enough’ means fading into the background.

 
Amsterdam’s business scene is fierce—whether you’re pitching to investors on the Zuidas, networking in the creative hubs of De Pijp, or building a global personal brand. Your competitors are investing in their visuals. Shouldn’t you?

 
This is why I’ve dedicated my career to helping Amsterdam professionals look as powerful as they are. When your photo radiates confidence, doors open, opportunities arise, and, most importantly, you feel unstoppable.


Amsterdam’s competitive business scene demands polished visuals—whether you’re a startup founder, executive, or creative.
This is why I’ve dedicated my career to helping Amsterdam professionals look as powerful as they are.

 

What Sets Me Apart 

From Camera-Shy to Camera-Ready: The Master Posing Method

Most photographers hand you a stool, tell you to ‘smile naturally,’ and start clicking. But what if you don’t know what ‘natural’ looks like on camera? That’s where my method stands apart. I don’t just photograph you—I teach you how to own your presence. Through subtle adjustments (a tilt of the chin, a shift in weight, a relaxed shoulder), I help you discover poses that feel effortless yet powerful. No modeling experience required—just trust the process.

My Process:

  1. Pre-shoot consultation
    We plan your outfits, backdrops, and goals—so you walk into my Amsterdam studio feeling prepared.
  2. Pose coaching
    I adjust everything from your shoulder tilt to your gaze, ensuring you look confident, not stiff.
  3. Expression guidance
    Smirks, smizes, or serious CEO energy—I’ll help you find the right vibe for your brand.

Don’t take my word for it: Nicollete Lazarus, Womanship Founder & CC0 (Chief Connection Officer) said, <<I’ve never felt so at ease in front of a camera. For the first time, I love myself in my photos.>>

 

 Who Needs This?

Who Books a High-End Amsterdam Photographer?

  • Amsterdam entrepreneurs updating their LinkedIn to attract investors
  • Executives relocating to the Netherlands who need polished corporate portraits
  • Creatives and coaches building personal brands with standout visuals

    “If you’ve ever thought, ‘I hate photos of myself,’ you’re exactly who I love working with.. I live for those lightbulb moments when you see your final images and say, ‘Wait—that’s ME?!’”

 

Behind the Scenes: My Amsterdam Studio (located in the trendy Funenpark)

Where Magic Happens: A Luxury Photo Experience in Amsterdam

Located in the Center East, more precisely in Het Funen, in the neighbourhood of Oostelijke Eilanden/Kadijken, my studio offers natural light, premium backdrops, and a relaxed atmosphere—far from rushed, fluorescent-lit chains, here you’ll sip coffee, relax, and—dare I say—enjoy the process.

 

Pricing & Packages

Investment: Because Your Image Is Worth It

Let’s be honest: Cheap photographers exist. But when your image impacts your career, how much is ‘saving money’ really costing you?

My Amsterdam photography sessions start at 269€ ex BTW and include professional hair/makeup, wardrobe guidance, day light studio.
Collections of digital files start at 800€ ex BTW for 5 portraits of your choice and go up from there.

“Compared to cheap Amsterdam photographers, my clients choose me for timeless quality—not just a quick snapshot.”

 

Ready to See the Difference a Master Posing Photographer Makes?

 

Book a free 15-minute consult to discuss your vision. Limited slots are available for [April/2025].
Reserve Your Amsterdam Photoshoot: Schedule a chat

Schedule a Chat

 

 

 

 

Looking through the lens

One doesn’t really know a person unless they’re in front of the camera. Looking through the lens, there’s another layer uncovered than the familiar face we post to the public. Maybe that’s why personal photoshoots are more intimate, you go through the layers of you, unveiling the different layers of your personality. 

This was the case with my client Ionela, I knew her from events we organised and attended together, I grew familiar with her bubbly personality, and I saw her as the cool chick. 

But seeing her in front of my camera, I have discovered the woman that she is, talented, creative, resourceful, authentic.. vulnerable, and not afraid to show it, powerful at the same time a complete woman in her own rights. 

I felt affection, and for me, that means being inspired and motivated to look beyond the public face. 

“Seeing these portraits empowers me, all the while making me feel extremely proud of the woman I have become. “

 

Empowered Women

Empowering women is what I do best. I did with CRAVE, featuring stylish women entrepreneurs in a book, and I continue empowering women in my portrait business. Seeing women thriving is what gives me a kick. Pushes me forward to do what I do and makes me happy to share my life with so many fabulous women.

She came into my studio the other day for a Personal Branding shoot for her new website. Karmen is building a brand “Flower and Spice Modern Apothecary“, a natural skincare cosmetic company.

… We had such a great time collaborating on a variety of elegant looks and overall feel. We wanted her portraits to match her brand… and I think we totally nailed it.

Karmen switched from a stressful corporate career in advertising to something completely different, embracing entrepreneurship and learning a new trade.

“It is never too late to do what makes you happy.”

 

My 5 minutes of fame

Last week I had the crew from NL Supervrouwen TV documenting my team and I for their Me-Time Program. They sent over a gorgeous woman, Sonya Dias, to participate in the Glamour Experience and then share her thoughts about it.

This initiative belongs to Wendy Broersen – she is starting a new online TV program where she talks about women entrepreneurs and their journey; super-women, as she calls them. Some of the names she has interviewed so far are: Ariane Inden, Genevieve van Meerburg, Marielle Sijgers and Louise Beduwe.

I love the idea and the female energy around this. It reminds me of my time being a partner at CRAVE, where we published a book of women entrepreneurs and made an online directory full of awesome businesses, owned by women.

The day went by fast and I was nervous having to talk in front of the camera, having to manage everyone and keep the energy high. Sony was a super-star, she managed to focus and actually relax into it and enjoy the experience fully.

Here are some behind the scenes made by amazing photographer Teresa Hulst from California Girl (CG). 

Make-up by: Lorena Ciubotaru
Styling/Art Direction: California Girl (CG)
Photographer : Cristina Stoian Portraits
Model: Sonya Dias

 

Here’s the Me-time video that went on to NL Supervrouwen TV. 

 


And here are my photos that I took of Sonya.

 

In her real life Sonya is an amazing speaker and presentor, she comes from Cape Verde and lives in Rotterdam. She is so enthusiastic and full of energy, she filled up the whole room with her smile. I photographer her in her capeverdian feather designer dress and various colourful national accessories. She’s magnificent to watch.

Enjoy her beautiful photos!

cristina-stoian-portaits-IMG_3088cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_2947cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_2908cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_3053cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_2875cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_3056cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_3075cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_2990cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_3119cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_3078cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_3088cristinastoian-portraits_IMG_3136

 

Book your session Now

Booking Fall

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Going back to your Roots

Every year I go back home to visit my parents, at least once or twice. It is my get-away from day to day life. I enjoy going back to a safe place where everything feels familiar.

 

In a way it’s like returning back to the past.

 

It’s a moment of reflection and deeper discovery of who I am.

 

I reconnect to the things I used to like and discover I still like them; like gardening, smelling roses, being back in nature and shopping with my mum.

 

Do you know that feeling? Where everything around you reminds you of some distant memory and every smell brings you back to your childhood.

 

It is a special moment, when I allow myself to be the daughter again, forgetting about my other chores and stresses in my life.

 

Making rose jam with my mum… mmm, bliss..

 moodboardholiday

I spend time with my parents and appreciate them being around me, feeling their love, listening to their words.

 

I understand so much more about myself watching them: what drives me and pushes me forward, why I like the things I like, remembering my old dreams and making new ones together.

 

How can I stop time? So I can appreciate it for longer.

 

The only way I know, of course is by taking photos.

 

It is printed in my DNA, my second nature, it feels so natural.

 

How about you? How would you like to preserve these moments in time and keep the celebration going?

 

Preserve this moment in time

Give yourself some well deserved me-time

Schedule a Chat

How to prepare for your photoshoot

This blog post is a long time coming and with spring being here and all the photoshoots scheduled already, I thought it’s the right time to write this and prepare everyone on how to prepare for your photoshoot.

Prepping for a photoshoot is an interesting experience.

A client of mine just said “It is such an exciting experience and I am really looking forward to it.” Another one: “The Glamour Experience has begun! Loved the intake with Cristina Stoian in Amsterdam for a professional photoshoot including a team looking after you all day. For business and fun!”

This makes me so happy and motivated to give you the best service I can.

Ok, so you’re about to have your portrait taken. Congratulations! I want you to think about it for a bit and start preparing it.

There are some aspects to consider, these are the little details that can impact your portrait and I want you to get them right.  It is time to plan. Decide on outfits, schedule beauty appointments, prepare a mood board. Chose what fits your lifestyle, current beauty regime and go from there.

Face

IMG_0974Whiten Teeth ahead of time. White strips will go a long way and they’re easy to apply 2 weeks before your shoot.
Breakouts – don’t scratch and squeeze; if you have a pimple the week of he shoot, leave it there, it’s easier to cover up with makeup than covering a red wound.
Exfoliate twice a week before the shoot. Spend a moment in your morning routine to gently scrub your face, use a quality organic facial scrub to feel like you’re really taking care of yourself.
Tweeze eyebrows one week before.  Don’t overdo it!  This is crucial since eyebrows are defining your face and can change your expression. Do it 2-3 days before the shoot, to allow the redness to cool off.
Facial For a total pamper session, have a light facial to close the pores, a week before the shoot – leave time to heal ! A facial at home is a good alternative, masks on Sundays is what I do to relax.
Red Eyes – Visine is your friend. Not getting drunk the night before your shoot helps, too.
Lips – Use lip balm and scrub for a few days in advance of your shoot to make your lips look their best.
Moisturizer – Dry skin can take away from a great photo shoot. Start moisturizing nightly a week in advance of your shoot.

 

Hair

IMG_3832Haircut –  If you’re getting a hair cut for your shoot, do so about two weeks beforehand, your hair falls into place best – 1-2 weeks after the cut.
Treatment – Give your hair a deep-moisturizing treatment. At your favourite salon while you’re having your haircut or at home.  Apply it together with the facial masque. Wrap your head with your towel after the shower, turban-style. Wear your bath robe and pretend you’re having a day at the spa and read a book. Take some time off for yourself.
Touch Up your Roots but don’t change the colour of your hair. You must be comfortable with your colour of your hair 3 months in advance. This is a big one, your photos will last forever.

Skin

Cristina-Stoian-Portrait-Photographer 22Wax/Shave Take care of all hair removal prior to a shoot, but leave at least 2-3 days in between.
Exfoliate and moisturize your whole body. When you get out of the shower, dry off until lightly damp, and use moisturizer. Focus on your arms, shoulders, neck, face, hands, anywhere you’ll be exposed to the camera. This includes your legs if you’re shooting in shorts or a skirt.
Tan If you are using self-tanner or go to a salon, do this couple of days before the shoot. I prefer you not to, I love fair skin, but this is your personal choice.

Hands

 

_MG_2261Manicure: Get a manicure done 1-2 days before your shoot. Clean nail polish. Short nails are preferred. A natural, non-colored, or French manicure look is preferable, but if you color them, think about the outfits you’re shooting in, the colour should work well with all your choices. If you plan on posing barefoot, be sure your feet and toes are in good condition.

Clean your rings: This is something I never use to think before, it makes a difference to have clean jewellery. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your jewellery the night before or have them cleaned professionally.

Clothes

cristina-stoian-106Prepare 5-6 outfits. Your portraits should be a reflection of you, just more polished. Choose the outfits you love. Think of those special pieces you might not wear often because they’re impractical for day-to-day use, or the go-to blouse you always wear when you’re going somewhere nice.
Little black Dress Bring at least one dark outfit or top or dress. black, navy, burgundy, dark green, etc. work best here.
Creamy Light Soft, sheer, not necesarerly white, can be cream, nude, light pink or peach.
Hip&Happening This outfit is your chance to show your personal style. If you tend toward more conservative tastes, choose a classy look. Instead of Funky, try Structured, Soft, Elegant, or Formal.
Sexy. This one is entirely your call. You could skip sexy, and that’s up to you. But if you’d like to, you can be an understated sexy in a backless formal dress, or a more overt sexy in a pretty pinup-style swimsuit. Beautiful lingerie is lovely and empowering.
Necklines. I love to be able to see your collar bone, so boat neck, scoop neck, square neck, deep V and off-the-shoulder are my favorite necklines. Whatever you choose, try to make it more interesting than the basic T-Shirt neckline. If you love turtlenecks, go for it! Feel free to bring whatever calls to you. Mixing up the necklines will add variety to your shots, so try not to bring all of one style.
Texture. Sumptuous textures lend a rich, tactile element to your photos.
Avoid Prints. Patterns and prints are distracting. We want people to look at you when they see your portrait, and even the most beautiful print will steal that attention.
Fit Your Form.  Fitted clothing that shows your shape work best for photographs. Skip that billowy, blouson top, or anything with dolman or batwing sleeves. While they might be flattering in person, they will not be slimming in camera. This applies to any body type. Choose outfits that will hug your curves, especially your waist, hips, arms, and chest.
Forget Shoes. Unless you have a special pair you’re dying to photograph, there’s really no need to worry about the shoes you’ll wear. Most images won’t show your feet at all, and if some do, bare feet will add an organic feel to your portraits.
Bras – Please bring according bras, nude underwear,  strapeless bras – depending on the outfit.

One night before:

Remove any watches, rings, or other jewelry that could leave an impression on your skin.
Relax Try not to schedule any activities this day, just relax and rest your nerves if you are anxious about the shoot. Sleep 8 hours.
Location Be sure that you know how to get to the studio or location where you are shooting.
Eat healthy Drink plenty of water. Avoid fatty, greasy, and salty foods prior to shooting. Please avoid alcohol or anything that will make you puffy or bloated. Also avoid anything that may stain your teeth.

The day of the shoot

Jog If you can, go for a light jog prior to the shoot to wake up your face.  This eliminates the tired look we see on most people first thing in the a.m.
Shower and apply antiperspirant
No Pony Do not wear a ponytail to the shoot, it leaves a kink in the hair
Eat light Don’t eat very much for 2-3 hours before the shoot, you may get bloated.  Sip water and eat light.
Relax Make sure you are relaxed.  I recommend doing yoga or meditation on the day of the shoot to get rid of jitters.
One coffee– Don’t have too much caffeine.
Arrive on time
Have fun !

What is a Portrait

A Portrait. What is a Portrait. I’ve been thinking about this one for a long time. It stayed in my head over the holidays. I did some digging to find out what some “heavy weight” people in the industry are saying about it. These are just a few of their thoughts that I found and I liked.

 

“A Portrait is a evocation of a person, gives the sense of that person, doesn’t necessarily need to look like the person but it would have to give some impression. ” Lesley Stevenson, Senior Paintings Conservator

 

“To me, a portrait is a creative collaboration between an artist and the sitter and it is unique in that sense as an art form, that’s what makes it really different from other art forms.” Sarah Saunders, Deputy Head of Education

 

“A Portrait can be many, many things, that depends on the one who takes the Portrait, who makes the picture and on the sitter, because the sitter chooses, most of the times, the person who makes a Portrait of him and he hopes that it represents him. That’s all.” Gert Sander, grandson of photographer August Sander.

 

“I would see a Portrait is a picture of the individual human being that places emphasis on the uniqueness, simple as that.” Sandy Moffat, Artist

 

“I think a Portrait is normally thought to be the sort of visual representation of someone, normally that’s in oil paint or might be a sculpture carving but I really like the idea of a Portrait being the sound of people’s voices.” James Holloway, Director Scottish National Portrait Gallery

 

“I think a Portrait is a representation of an individual, usually an individual, a human being, by another individual, and it’s a created object that acts as a kind of remembrance of that person.” Nicola Kalinsky, Deputy Director of Scottish National Portrait Gallery

 

“It’s like being enlove, it’s the same thing, you never know how it happens, but if it happens right, a good outcome will come out of it.”  Gert Sander, grandson of photographer August Sander.

 

“Portraits of rulers from the early Medieval period often did not depict the actual appearance of the living ruler, but the “imago” of a Roman emperor in whose succession he felt himself to be standing, by “tanslatio imperii”.
Contemporary portraits, however, are made within a cultural and artistic context with deep questions about the nature of identity, of representation, and of authenticity.
Today, technology is transforming both the medium and the subject matter of Portraiture, changing how we think about human identity: to portray the essence of a person, do we show the face? DNA? surveillance data? shopping transactions? ” Richard Brilliant, Professor of Art History and Archaeology, at Columbia University

 

 

Even funnier, when I have asked my friend, the artist Raluca Vescan, she told me: “If I think of a Portrait, the first image that comes to my mind is the Native American that was running away from the camera, scared that their soul would be stolen…”

 

 

I guess everyone has its own interpretation of it. What is yours ?

 

For me, a Portrait has a deeper meaning. It shows you, the person that is being photographed, a side of you that is very personal, real, that is you. It shows you a face that you sometimes catch in the mirror, but you can rarely reproduce in a photo. It is a side of you, that for various reasons does not usually get to be seen on camera. It is also the side of you that you want your grand, grand-grandchildren to hold in their arms, one day and say: “Now, this is Grandma”.

 

 

I like to do that for you. To be your eyes. Show your inner self. No borders, no fears, just YOU. 

Show your inner self

Do you own a Portrait of Yourself ?

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Time to Reconnect With Your True Self

<<I get it now.>>

 

It only took me half a decade photographing women.

 

I’ve been taking photographs since I was 14, always saving money to buy and develop films while in high school. 

 

I thought I was attracted to it initially, because of the art of photography.

 

Then later I thought I have “the eye”, whatever that means, when people wanted to pay me for photos during my work for CRAVE – photographing the women entrepreneurs of Amsterdam. 

 

Now I know what it is I am attracted to and I know why people love being photographed by me. 

 

I can connect with people easily and I put them at ease; the big black ugly camera disappears after a while and it becomes a conversation. I sometimes spend 2 hours after the photo-shoot chatting away, like friends, when the camera is not even there.

 

I love that.

 

I love connecting.

 

I am very curious about other people’s inner space. What goes on in your inner world.

 

I’m eager to learn, to discover, to grow and that makes me listen

 

When I discovered that, everything changed for me – the dynamics of the photo-shoot, the flow, the poses and the process. 

 

I used to just “go” to your office or home to snap a picture.  I was not in control of light, or the styling or pose. 

 

Everything has changed now.

 

I realised what can make you nervous. And now my process can help you to … be you

 

Photo-shoots in the fashion world require extensive preparation and a team of 10 buzzing around the model. Sometimes it requires a pre photo-shoot to get to know the model. 

 

I know that would be nerve-wracking for regular people, like you and me. A big studio, with lights and lots of people buzzing around, while you’re naked or getting changed. But I still wanted those results.

 

I thought about doing everything opposite, while working with my clients. Who are not super models, but every-day, all ages, genuine women that I love to photograph.

 

So I took control of the process.

  • I start by consulting with my models before the photo-shoot, so you know what to bring (more about that in another newsletter).
  • I’ll provide inspirational photography to select from, this gives me an idea about your taste and together we design our photo-shoot mood board.
  • I hire makeup artists and hair stylists to pamper you so you’re relaxed and know you’ll look good.
  • I have created a flow for the poses and learned how to give you guidance and direction in them.
  • I learned that others have preferred a private space over a huge cold space, so what other more private and cosy environment can I offer, than my own home – My living room is transformed into your own personal glam studio for the photo-shoot. It all feels like playing! 
  • I’ve also learned that some people don’t know how to ‘work the lights’ and can get nervous in front of a big soft box. So I have simplified that too and now I’m shooting in natural light. 

 

It’s only me and you, in my home, in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere – Where you have the space to be yourself.

 

The hair, makeup and change of clothes are there to aid you in your process of being confident.

 

You’re going to feel good in front of the camera and this is what I strive to achieve.

 

I spent all of last year developing this process for you and this year was all about improving it further.

 

I am very happy with the results and I know I can only improve it further with the help of my models

 

Have a look what some of my first clients had to say about The Glamour Experience

  

Sarah-Jane Threipland

Sarah-Jane Threipland

Copywriter / Freelancer

Cristina is confident behind the camera, and somehow sees a side that usually stays hidden. We had a lot of fun getting my confident, slight glamour-kitten out of hiding and playing with her poses. The hair and make-up were definitely fun too!

Allison Hamilton-Rohe

Allison Hamilton-Rohe

Personal Stylist / Daily Outfit

After I went through the shoot, I felt I had learned so much about myself and fashion, I didn't even feel the need to see the photos! The experience itself had had an amazing result. But, I'm not gonna lie -- the reveal was incredible. I couldn't believe the images Cristina had created. Here is, as Oprah says, my best self -- beautiful, strong, fabulous, sexy, stylish and confident.This is who I am -- in my imagination. But there I am -- in a photograph. I am so happy I said yes to this shoot. Turns out? It was a favor to myself. Sometimes, it takes courage to step into your own power. Thanks to Cristina, all I need to do is look at this image to know I already have!

Cristina Rotariu

Cristina Rotariu

Curator / Amsterdam Fringe Festival

I’m usually a bit shy, especially in photos, so it was a surprise to me to see this sassy, fashionable person staring out of the shots Cristina took. I’d definitely recommend the experience – everyone should get the chance to shine in front of the camera, and she really works with you to make you feel comfortable.

Blanca Vergara

Blanca Vergara

Inspirational speaker and Coach / Women Work Wonders

I love the fact that it was an experience. It was not just getting amazing photos. It was a whole journey, from looking for clothes, having the make up on, the hair done.... the conversations, the coffee... This sense of journey, of transformation, of experience is terrific. It's possibly more important than the photos themselves. The photo shoot made me feel beautiful, powerful, renewed, empowered. When I saw the photos for the first time I thought: "I love myself", it was like falling in love with myself again. It changed the way I see myself. Re-connecting with my Big Self, Big Blanca, powerful, sexy, unstoppable. Amazing! "

Amelia Lopez Huix

Amelia Lopez Huix

President and CEO / MCI Multilateral Partners

I am a daughter, a sister, a wife and a mother. I AM A WOMAN. And here I AM, at my 40’s, feeling more FEMALE than ever. Among many other things, my body has swum for many years, my body has given birth 4 times, and has feed all my children. Yes my body has created 4 children. My mind has not only designed systems, founded my own company, but has dreamt of my life and WHO I wanted to be, as a woman, as a wife and as a MOTHER. This picture comes as a result of an extraordinary work made by Cristina Stoian Photographer , many other pictures were taken, and I have chosen this one cause it shows me the incredible power of being female. This picture shows me WHO I always dreamt to be, THE WOMAN WHO HAS CREATED HERSELF AND HER WORLD. Cristina Stoian, the experience you have given to me has gone far beyond any expectation I had. I am profoundly touched. Your work has given me a precious gift, that of seeing me and enjoying who I am, and I have learnt something really beautiful with you, I have learnt to not forget the reason why I wake up every morning, to give the best of me to my daughters, my husband and to all mothers. Thank you, Amelia

Sunita Changoe

Sunita Changoe

Business owner / Tara Mediation / The Social Connector

Cristina met beyond my expectations, she captured my heritage and created part of my legacy. Part of the acquired collection I hold like a treasure is private and part of it has been reason to completely rebrand my personal me. Some of those pictures were actually exactly what was needed to complete my personal branding. What you see, is what you get, the glamourous powerful passionate me. Thank you Cristina and wishing you so many more women to re-activate and re-connect.

Suelle Harts

Suelle Harts

The Designer / Brasa Canela Exclusive Jewellery

A portrait is an eternal moment. A moment framed in time. It is art; - and A portrait is an eternal moment. A moment framed in time. It is art; - and the photographer - is a moment's painter. Someone who can feel the magic of the moment and catch it in a fraction of time. Cristina Stoian is an artist. A passionate photographer who has introduced me to the real beauty of a framed moment. The real art seen behind her lenses. Myself framed in time.

Olia Svarga

Olia Svarga

Student, Makeup artists / Olia Svarga Makeup Artist

During my experience with Cristina, I was a bit shy in the beginning and felt quite insecure, but she created a very relaxing and friendly atmosphere so that I could just be myself without any artificial postures and facial expressions. She admired my face, my behaviour and I totally relaxed and acted like a real model. Throughout our photo shoot I revealed my inner beauty and forgot about all the diffidence and fears about my appearance and I guess the main thing is that after our creative experiment I understood that the more you accept your appearance and remove all stereotypes imposed by society, media, especially fashion, the more harmonic you feel with your outer and inner spaces.

Snezana Zivcevska-Stalpers

Snezana Zivcevska-Stalpers

Technology and Innovation at IBM | UN Women / Technology and Innovation at IBM | UN Women

"Cristina stopped the time for a moment for me and made me feeling so proud of myself. By capturing my smile, my grace, and my beauty, she made a great heritage for me, my kids, their kids. It was an absolute pleasure to work with her.”