February 13, 2024February 14, 2024 by Cristina Stoian

How do you choose a photographer

Why might you need a photographer, you ask?

In today’s world of smartphones and the evolving realm of photography, this question might seem perplexing. Why invest in a portrait photographer when you can snap a picture with your phone and share it on social media? Isn’t that what matters most nowadays?

Here at Cristina Stoian Portraits in Amsterdam, our mission goes beyond simply providing beautiful images. While our photography is undeniably stunning, it’s also profoundly impactful. It’s about more than just taking pictures—it’s about shaping perceptions. How do you want the world to see you? How do you envision yourself being captured? When was the last time you felt empowered in your own skin?

Think about the portraits of your grandparents and great-grandparents. What do they represent? They’re not just pieces of paper tucked away in albums; they’re a testament to your history, your lineage, and your legacy from those who’ve cherished you. That’s why you’re seeking a photographer and not just any photographer. You’re searching for someone who understands not only the technical aspects but also the art of connection during a shoot. Someone who can capture your essence and create artwork that reflects the beauty seen by those who love you most.

When is the right time for a professional portrait photographer?

You need one when you’re commemorating a milestone or a cherished relationship—whether it’s with your mother, daughter, sister, or best friend. You need a professional when you’re ready to create timeless artwork that your descendants will treasure. You need one when you want to capture and celebrate your family’s love today, creating heirlooms that adorn your walls and remind your children of the love surrounding them.

How do you choose a portrait photographer?

It takes research. Explore galleries of photographers in your area whose work resonates with you. Reach out to discuss your vision and the types of artwork you’re considering. Talk about products, service steps, pricing, and delivery methods. Educate yourself on your options before making an informed decision.

As for us at Cristina Stoian Portraits, we hope you’ll consider us for your portraiture needs. Check out our Q&A page for insights into our process, and feel free to contact us for a personal consultation.

Contemporary portraiture lies at the heart of our business. Capturing women at every stage of life, highlighting their beauty, and celebrating their legacy is our passion. I’m Cristina Stoian, and my work has been described as Celebratory, Feminine, and Beautiful. All-encompassing. Seeing the different sides of femininity. Not one-sided but many different faceted. I treat each client and session with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Why schedule a portrait session?

Because you deserve more than simply checking tasks off your list. Being photographed at your best is liberating. From the style consultation to the final click of the camera, it’s about embracing your confidence and beauty. Investing in yourself means recognizing your value and teaching your daughters the same.

Who do we serve?

Primarily, we work with women—though we’re not exclusive. Our clients wear many hats, they’re busy, decisive, and value-driven. They’re seekers of deeper meaning, and they understand the importance of self-discovery.

What will you gain?

You’ll rediscover your beauty and embrace it with confidence. Let’s embark on this journey together and find that inner spark once again.

If you find yourself resonating with our approach and we haven’t had the chance to connect, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re eager for the opportunity to capture your essence through our lens.

Q&A

What is your photography style?
My work is feminine, timeless and insightful, creating beautiful pieces of art.
I stand for women’s rounded self, powerful, dramatic and natural, it all deserves to be seen.

Who will photograph my sessions?
All photo sessions are photographed by me, Cristina Stoian, female photographer;

Where does the shoot take place?
Shoots are located at my studio. I have created an environment that is the most relaxing and warm for you to enjoy your photo shoot. Big studios and huge lights can be overwhelming and clearly does not create intimacy between photographer and client.

Are the women on your website models?
No, all the women on my website are clients and most of them have never had shoots before.

How long does a session last?
The Glamour Experience includes hair and makeup and will last 4-5 hours in total.

Who can I bring along at the photoshoot?
If you would like to share the experience with your mum, daughter, sister, friend, you are welcome to invite them into the shoot. Make it a girls day out!

What will I gain from having a Portrait Session?

Lots of women are nervous when they first speak to me about having their portraits taken. Afterward, I hear them saying “That is one of the best things I have ever done for myself”. Some, have portrait sessions for the man in their lives, others have them just for themselves… As women, we are so hard on ourselves and are often our own harshest critics. The self-confidence and self-esteem that can be gained from a portrait shoot are amazing.

One of my favourite parts of a portrait session is speaking to clients after they have viewed their images when they realise; actually, yes, they are beautiful, powerful, even sexy. “l feel beautiful, powerful, renewed, empowered. It changed the way I see myself. Re-connecting with my Big Self, powerful, sexy, unstoppable. Amazing!” Blanca Vergara

How long should I book before my shoot?
If you want to give the folio box or prints as a gift, I would recommend booking 2 weeks in advance. It takes about 15 days to invite you to the reveal session, where you will pick your prints.

Do you retouch the images?
Yes, all your images are retouched, spots and blemishes are removed unless stated otherwise.

Do you offer hair styling and make-up?
Yes, definitely, I work with a wonderful, talented team of hair and make-up artists, which I trust with my image and yours.

What if I am not happy with my figure?
A question asked by so many women. “I am not ready yet. I need to lose 25 kilos before my session.” If we all waited until we lost weight and looked perfect we could be waiting a long time..everyone has perfections and imperfections that is what makes us unique. My job as a Portrait Photographer is to emphasize your many positives and to minimise any areas you may feel self-conscious about, through smart posing and direction.

What do I bring to the session?
I normally suggest about 4-5 outfits that work for you. All this is discussed in the consultation session.

How will I know how to pose?
I will work with you and show you the poses that will work for you and your body. I will direct your poses and you don’t need to have any prior experience.

When do I pick up my photos?
15 days after your shoot there will be a face-to-face session at my studio, I call the “Reveal”, where you will get to pick your printed and matted photos. How many you buy, it’s up to you.

Contact page

You can call me to discuss packages and any questions or queries about the shoot in more detail.

March 22, 2018April 9, 2018 by Cristina Stoian

How does it feel to get your portrait taken

Getting your Portrait taken is nothing short of magic.

Last year I have done a self portrait, this year I wanted to experience a full portrait experience like the one I give my clients.
Hair and makeup and the whole day pampering me. Pose training and dress change and expressions exercises.

I knew it was not going to be easy, let yourself go in front of the camera is not something that comes naturally to me. Putting myself first is something I don’t do well.

For this reason, I decided to preach what I teach and get myself this experience.

I can let you know that I understand it better now. It’s hard to let go of the daily tensions, stay focused for 4 hours, let yourself led by the expert, and just enjoy.

It’s like the holidays you take after a long year of work, you find it hard to de-tense and disconnect in the first few days.

What I realized is that the sooner you let go of control, (and boy, as an expert myself, is hard to do) the sooner you can achieve the results you want.

So what did this photoshoot teach me?

Well, it was easy to see, I am tense. Does this apply to you too?

I don’t take time enough for myself to enjoy time off, selfless time off for me, with me.
Like a massage, a spa day, a dinner alone reading a book, checking in with myself more often, how do I feel right now. Am I balanced? Or am I tense? Am I calm and grounded or am I all over the place? Am I clear and sharp in my thoughts or is it hard for me to focus. These are clues that tell you how far you are in your tiredness and stress. Being balanced is a trained muscle and one that you can develop.

So it was good to slow down and take some me-time and then reflect on it.

I learned how hard it is for me to let go of control. Can you relate?

This is something unhealthy, I think and possibly the reason I work for myself. Perfection doesn’t exist but good results can be achieved multiple ways. Sometimes is good to let someone else take the lead and let yourself flow with them.

I am shy. Shy to be watched, shy to connect with someone’s eyes for my own purpose, shy to hold the gaze.

So after all these preconceptions of how things should go, are let loose, that’s when the magic begins and the photographer can do its job.

I realize how hard this is for you and I will be ever more kind and allowing you more space to open for my future photo shoots.

I am pleased with this portrait, this is me at the age of 35. Even though it was a journey to achieve it, I recommend this experience to everyone because it is a valuable lesson of self-discovery.

in Self-Care 0 comments

January 12, 2018 by Cristina Stoian

The glamourous, powerful, passionate me

I’ve just received the most heartwarming review from my first Glamour Photoshoot Session I’ve done.. I’m most humbled and grateful. I guess it’s been a journey for both of us, Su !

“Ever since I celebrated 30 years of my life I was preparing for my 40th birthday. I wanted to celebrate this milestone with an awesome party and photo shoot beyond awesome.

But when my 40th birthday came none of this happened. December 11th, 2010 my amazing father unexpectedly passed away abroad and according to Hindu tradition his death was followed with one year of mourning. Then a few years followed with a drastic change of my body filled with IVF related hormones. So I didn’t feel ready yet to still have that photo shoot.

When Cristina Stoian approached me for a glamour photo shoot three years later I accepted this opportunity with both hands and a lot of excitement.

This excitement was the most some days just before the photo shoot one day before my 43th birthday. Why? Because I am a result driven person and highly impatient when it comes to the good stuff in life. I pampered myself a lot with respect to preparing for the photo shoot and had regular contact with Cristina about what to wear, well actually about my whole presentation.

I already knew Cristina from an entrepreneurial circle. I met Cristina as partly down to earth but also a young talented woman who could capture life in all its features. Feeling comfortable with a photographer is the most important thing about being photographed so the play between expression and impression can be of great value for both the photographer and the photographed individual.

Being ‘naked’ outside the premises of my home, is something I haven’t done in ages, as my mother always taught her children that you never have a second chance to have a first impression, I am used to leave the house as impeccable with respect to my appearance.

On the day of the photo shoot I left home without make up and comfy dressed as I knew there was a metamorphose about to start.

On location my hair and make-up was done by to talented women and meanwhile I did my best to fit into the energy of Cristina and her studio. Initially it was hard to pose, as I am a woman who prefers to be behind the camera instead of in the picture. And also my serious look. I laugh a lot in life, but to pose with a smile is something that feels unnatural. The photo shoot almost took a whole day. Afterwards there was a mixture of feelings, feeling like I had an eight hour work out of yoga and Pilates in one and feeling in-convincible again. Cristina managed to make me laugh and loosen up. Though the final results were not ready yet, Cristina made some sneak-a-peak-pictures with her I-phone during and after the photo shoot. When I received those pictures shortly after the photo shoot and placed them on social media, the reactions were overwhelming. Many people assumed this was the actually result of the photo shoot. Most people reacted with love and awesomeness, seeing me as I used to be a long time, powerful and passionate about life.

The very first time I saw the results of glamour shoot, I was silent. Not because I didn’t like it, but because of Cristina’s ability to capture the nature of my soul, my fragile and powerful part at once, my completeness. It was quite confronting, realizing what the heck had happened to that woman I saw in all her brilliance again and feeling grateful to have reconnected with that brilliance. My favourite photo I installed as a screensaver, just to remind me of the woman I am working and living for. There is always a distorted self-image as looking at our reflection in the mirror, is not the way we are perceived by the world. The response to the pictures online were also amazing, people I had not been in touch with for ages reconnected with me and saw my heritage of people they once knew and respected, like my father and my grandparents.

I would definitely recommend this experience to other women. It is not just a photo shoot, any woman is worth such experience to meet and have the essence of yourself captured for the rest of your life and beyond. Actually, I already have recommended this experience to other women.

As I was the first in her glamour photo shoot and I didn’t know what to expect, but with 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.”

@Sunita Changoe
Business owner
Tara Mediation / Windmills & Wooden shoes

in Confidence / Empowerment / Feminine Energy 0 comments

June 1, 2017April 9, 2018 by Cristina Stoian

Your natural self

I wanted to capture what it feels to go back into your natural way of being. Lorena was an actress and a dancer before she became a mother. She renounced her career to move to Holland and build a family. Her own power stepping into her natural self, who she really is as a person was astounding to see. She became the dancer again. The actress never left, it was always latent into her personality and eventually it was screaming to come out.

Portrait Photography: Cristina Stoian
Photography Assistant: Taylor Zopie
Hair & Makeup: Lorena Ciubotaru
Filmed and Edited: Taylor Zopie

in Feminine Energy 0 comments

July 27, 2016April 9, 2018 by Cristina Stoian

Mother Daughter

Portraits for me, speak about self- love and loving your body.

So many women struggle with their image, as we are judged on impossible standards of appearance.

This insecurity is passed from generation to generation. This is why it is so important to teach your daughter to love herself now, the way she is. The message is: “I love myself, therefore my daughter loves herself.”

In my practice as a photographer, I offer a ‘mother-daughter day’, so when Allison asked me to be a ‘selfie advisor’ for this event for mothers-and daughters, it felt that I should be part of it. I knew I could pass on some fun tips about photography and also help mothers start a conversation about self-love with their teens.

A new study says that girls (65%) feel increasing pressures from advertising and media to reach an unrealistic standard of beauty. This is the key force in driving their appearance anxiety.

Low body-esteem is causing the majority of women (85%) and girls (79%) to opt out of important life activities – such as trying out for a team or club, and engaging with family or loved ones – when they don’t feel good about the way they look.

Additionally, 7 in 10 girls with low body-esteem say they won’t be assertive in their opinion or stick to their decision if they aren’t happy with the way they look, while 9 out of 10! (87%) women will stop themselves from eating or will otherwise put their health at risk.

“This latest research shows that low body confidence is a global issue,” says Dr Nancy Etcoff of Harvard Medical School.

This is why we need to empower our girls now, increasing body – confidence education.

We can start by having meaningful conversations around the body – image, how they perceive their own appearance.

I had a girl in my studio the other day, she was so beautiful, my heart was melting, but she stayed so serious the whole shoot. I realized while photographing her, she was uncomfortable with her teeth, so she avoided smiling. It took a lot to make her smile and she was only 7!!

Our own perceptions of ourselves start so early, it is important to educate our girls in the right direction. Make the first step. Come to our shoot and we’ll start a conversation while taking portraits.

Enjoy this mother-daughter day and portrait reveal of this beautiful mother-daughter pair.

Start a meaningful conversations around body-image

You're so beautiful

Schedule a chat

in Mom-Daughter / Photo Reveal 0 comments

March 17, 2016January 12, 2018 by Cristina Stoian

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

Whiten 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

Haircut – 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

Wax/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

Manicure: 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

Prepare 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 !

in Empowerment / Self-Care / Shoot with Cris / Studio 0 comments

January 7, 2016January 12, 2018 by Cristina Stoian

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 ?

Schedule a Chat

in Amsterdam / Empowerment / Inspiration / Shoot with Cris 0 comments

December 5, 2015December 7, 2015 by Cristina Stoian

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

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

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

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

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

CEO & Founder / MOH.INTERNATIONAL

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

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

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

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

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.”

in Amsterdam / Shoot with Cris 0 comments

September 22, 2015January 29, 2018 by Cristina Stoian

How do you see yourself ?

Allison from DailyOutfit has been a long time supporter of me and my business endeavours. She was first a strong believer in me, while I was working at my 123dressme project, and then, when I decided to move on and start this new genre in photography, Glamour Portraits, she became my biggest ambassador and one of my first clients. I feel I am so lucky to have such beautiful humans like her by my side, their support is invaluable. When I grow up, I will return the favour to the universe and support and mentor younger girls, because I really do think these people are godsend. This is what Allison had to say after our session together, it was interesting to me to see how she sees herself and how I see her, depicted in portraits.

“When I said yes, I thought I was doing Cristina a favor. If she was going in a new direction with her photography, I was going to support her! I certainly didn’t think I needed this for myself.

What surprised me was how much the session did for me, for my confidence, and for the way I see myself. Not only were the images she created beautiful, they allowed me to see a whole other side of myself that I thought I knew, but had never really claimed.

Cristina told me it was an experience. She designed it as an opportunity for any woman to get in touch with her glamorous side. But, really, I didn’t think that was an issue for me. I’m a stylist!

I was wrong.

The experience was transformational.

First of all, who knew modeling is so difficult?

It takes concentration, physical stamina and total focus. It’s like yoga, except you also want to look good!

Luckily, Cristina coached me through the whole thing. I relaxed with her and got into the swing of it. She’s amazing: kind and encouraging.

It was unlike any other photo shoot I’ve experienced.

Of course, models and actresses do this all the time — and they don’t get that kind of support. It’s their job. It was fascinating to experience the poses and facial expressions they wield for myself.

More importantly, I have a whole other level of respect for it. We all struggle with expectations of perfection and beauty. Much of this struggle comes from amazing images like these.

What most of us don’t understand is the preparation and work that goes into creating high fashion images. Once I experienced it for myself, I immediately understood on a visceral level how these images are created.

And yet, for the first time, these images allowed me to see my body as beautiful. And seeing is believing.

For example, take a look at this photo to the left. I look slender and curvy at the same time. My waist and bust look perfect. The funny thing is, I know this is the pose. But, I also know it is actually me.

Not that I’m going to walk around like this; no one could. But, if this is actually me, what happens to all that struggle with all those expectations?

I can just put those to rest. Done and sorted! What a gift.

portrait Cristina Stoian

“Working the camera” is not just a phrase; it’s a skill set. Some of my sisters have teased me (lovingly or not so lovingly, depending on their mood) that I “always” look good in photos. It’s not actually true.But, I did learn early on how to simply look at the camera and smile. It brings your ratio of good shots to bad shots WAY up.

Take the image to the right. I don’t always look this good, but it is totally me. It’s my smile, the photo looks natural — and it is!

This shot has become my new head shot.

It’s on my website banner and in my marketing. It expresses who I am and who I want to be: for my clients, my friends and myself. Fun, compassionate AND stylish.

But, it’s not the shot that inspired me the most from this shoot OR the one that taught me the most about myself OR about high fashion.

Because taking a high-fashion shot is totally different. It’s actually not about the smile at all.Why do so many famous women look younger than the rest of us? It’s not just the Botox and air-brushing. In these shots, I’m not making any wrinkles!

Look closely –

the forehead, the mouth, the eyes — and you’ll see my face is totally relaxed.

I look about 20. But really? I’m 43 and I’ve had two children!

My daughter said, “Mommy, are these photos of you when you were much younger?”

I laughed and responded, “No, sweetie, this is how I can look right now. I just have to be very relaxed.”

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!”

Design your glamour experience

Are you ready to start this journey together

Schedule a Chat

in Amsterdam / Confidence / Empowerment / Feminine Energy / My muses / Photo Reveal / Shoot with Cris 0 comments

June 17, 2015January 12, 2018 by Cristina Stoian

Mother and Daughter day video

A while ago I photographed a Mother and Daughter together for the first time. They came in and had their hair and makeup done and spend a nice afternoon in my studio. It was relaxed and they enjoyed playing in front of the camera. This is the film behind the scenes we made to show you this experience. Enjoy!

in Mom-Daughter / Positive Body Image / Shoot with Cris 0 comments