I love the idea of channeling the book’s energy. That wisdom will help me with overcoming my self consciousness in photo sessions. I’ll turn it into performance art and also use a lot of affirmations! I’m so lazy when it comes to author photos and mine are over ten years old. I don’t look like that person and my work is also different. All your photos are beautiful. The Madwomen UK and US covers both stunning. The white ones reminiscent of Eve Arnold’s Marilyn photos. I also appreciate the tip to collect author photos that resonate: Joan Didion is one who comes instantly to mind. I love some eccentric photos of Agatha Christie. Thank you, Chelsea! x
The Substack fairies brought me to this post somehow and I’m so glad. I LOVE IT! I love the fun and energy you’ve brought to your author photos and the pleasure you take in producing them, and it shows in great results.
I find it hard to admit I actually love dressing up and having photos taken, so go you! Definitely taking these tips and inspo on board when the time comes to do my own photos. Thanks Chelsea!
Hi Deepa! I’m so glad the fairies brought you here! Yes, dressing up and all that goes along with this part is so much fun to me. Writing is so solitary, so we have to get our kicks where we can, I say. Wishing you all the best and thank you for reading! xo
So happy you wrote this, Chelsea! It’s been on my mind for months (the picture Ive been using is like 5 years old!) and I felt like it might be premature while Im querying. But you are right, you never know what can happen or when it will be needed. I also found it helpful to think of my book when planning the photoshoot. That instantly made the whole thing sound less daunting and more exciting
Yay, Kailey!! That’s wonderful to hear. And yeah, I’d day it’s never too early to create that writer persona in a way that feels super intentional and empowered. xoxoxo
I love the idea of channeling the book’s energy. That wisdom will help me with overcoming my self consciousness in photo sessions. I’ll turn it into performance art and also use a lot of affirmations! I’m so lazy when it comes to author photos and mine are over ten years old. I don’t look like that person and my work is also different. All your photos are beautiful. The Madwomen UK and US covers both stunning. The white ones reminiscent of Eve Arnold’s Marilyn photos. I also appreciate the tip to collect author photos that resonate: Joan Didion is one who comes instantly to mind. I love some eccentric photos of Agatha Christie. Thank you, Chelsea! x
The Substack fairies brought me to this post somehow and I’m so glad. I LOVE IT! I love the fun and energy you’ve brought to your author photos and the pleasure you take in producing them, and it shows in great results.
I find it hard to admit I actually love dressing up and having photos taken, so go you! Definitely taking these tips and inspo on board when the time comes to do my own photos. Thanks Chelsea!
Hi Deepa! I’m so glad the fairies brought you here! Yes, dressing up and all that goes along with this part is so much fun to me. Writing is so solitary, so we have to get our kicks where we can, I say. Wishing you all the best and thank you for reading! xo
I LOVE THIS POST SO MUCH. Thank you, Chelsea. (And "hot and haunted" are probably gonna be the keywords for *my* next author photo lol.)
Omg Esme! Hi!! You take the most stunning photos, I have always thought. Truly works of art! So nice to see you here. xoxox
I’m a new paid subscriber and happy to be here!
I’m so happy you are here!! xo
"Note what positions make you feel powerful. Just notice."
Always.
Great examples!
Thank you, Desiree!! xo
So much amazing advice here. I’ve always loved your author photos, Chelsea!
Oh thank you Kayti!! I hope it was in some way helpful. xo
Loved this—and the Mad Woman cover could not be more perfect
Oh thank you, Remy!! I appreciate it! xo
So happy you wrote this, Chelsea! It’s been on my mind for months (the picture Ive been using is like 5 years old!) and I felt like it might be premature while Im querying. But you are right, you never know what can happen or when it will be needed. I also found it helpful to think of my book when planning the photoshoot. That instantly made the whole thing sound less daunting and more exciting
Yay, Kailey!! That’s wonderful to hear. And yeah, I’d day it’s never too early to create that writer persona in a way that feels super intentional and empowered. xoxoxo
This is the guide I needed! I'm so glad my DM inspired this!!