MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: LuAnn Warner-Prokos
Where are you from?
My studio is located in Delray Beach.
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was a hobbyist for most of my teen and adult life and, was the school photographer at a local prep school where I taught for over 20 years. I left 12 years ago to start my professional business and studio.
I love DIY projects, cooking, and reading. I love adventure and travel, and am a lifelong learner. I was trained to work as a hypnotherapist, but my photography business took over.
How did you become interested in Photography?
My dad loved taking photos and we would have family “slides” night, enjoying his images from our family trips. He gave me his camera when I was in my early teens. I ended up as editor of our yearbook (2 yrs) and told teachers I had to follow the (outside hired) photographer around as he took candids. For various reasons, I did not think pursuing photography would fit in with my “break the ceiling” career drive. Although I loved teaching history and had received awards, it was great to finally pursue my other passion on my own terms. I have enjoyed every minute of my journey to get where I am today in my business.
What type of photography do you specialize in?
For the last 11 years, I have predominantly focused on maternity/newborn/family photography. I have a small studio in west Delray Beach. Before the pandemic I had started moving my business towards more luxe portraiture, as well as headshot and personal branding sessions. I value the work I do and am a luxe boutique brand.
How did you come to specialize in this type of photography?
When I started out, I knew that I needed to get above the fray, so-to-speak. As we all know, there are a lot of people out there with a DSLR camera. I traveled around the country to learn from top photographers from various genres. For example, I knew that attending a small workshop and working at a destination wedding for a top wedding photographer would teach me about certain aspects of lighting and thinking fast on my feet. This education ranged from small group workshops to pre-con classes at conferences, to conference large classes. From Ana Brandt and Kelly Brown, I found my love for the newborn sessions. These involve a lot of training (posing, lighting, etc, and safety!!) and time. I still get excited when I have a newborn in my studio, but I am ready to concentrate on portraiture for children, adults, and families.
What other attributes do you have that you think contribute to your success as a photographer?
I love finding ways to pamper my clients or make them feel special. I try to add value to my clients’ orders by adding in a gift. that my sessions are special. I like to connect with the child/ren or the father to have each part of the process as the session is starting. As for personally, I have honed my lighting, posing, and editing skills (and will always continue to learn).
Where can others go to see more of your work or contact you for your photography services?
One can go to Www.WarnerProkosPhotography and from there go to one of my 2 websites: WPportraiture and WPnewborns. My email is: info@WPportraiture.com
