CLAIRE BUFFIE: photography&design

HEADSHOTS | Alison

2010-06-03T11:43:00.006-04:00

One more set of headshots for Miss New York: Miss Jubilee’s Outstanding Teen, Alison Stroming. Alison was 4th Runner Up at Miss New York’s Outstanding Teen last year and has a bright future as a dancer and potential Miss America’s Outstanding Teen!

And wouldn’t you know it, the one we chose for her actual headshot was the first one of the entire session!! The official headshot:

We also did some fun Miss Jubilee pictures with her crown and sash for autograph cards.

View more of Alison's headshots HERE.

Additional Headshot Update

2010-05-25T01:35:00.001-04:00

For those of you who frequent my blog/website, first of all, “Thanks!” But you may have also noticed a trend of white background headshots. First and foremost, this was weather related, being out of season for outdoor natural light photos. However, as I was forced into this, I began really seeing the importance of a strong, clear, bright classic headshots in addition to the natural light. If you have headshots in the same outfit, but those two completely different scenes, you’re doubling your photo gallery on your website or in your personal collection of options.

So for these reasons, I have decided to add 1 additional look on a white background to both of my existing headshot packages. Same price – just add another look on a white background (or repeat your outfit on the white backgroun). $400 still gives you 3 final images and $600 still gives you 5 final images, you’ll just have more options this time around.

WEB DESIGN | NYC Pageants + HEADSHOTS | Keelie

2010-05-25T01:22:00.006-04:00

A website is a crucial form of advertising when enticing and recognizing sponsors, promoting an event, and spreading a message. In the other areas of my life, I have always used my talents of design to help the organizations I support. This year in the Miss America Organization, I represent the local title of Miss Southeast New York on my way to the Miss New York State Pageant. Miss Southeast NY is a part of NYC Pageants, the supporting local organization behind Miss Greater NYC and Miss Liberty as well. I took my sister queens’ headshots and also made our website for publicity. Take a look! www.NYCpageants.com

You’ve seen Cassie’s headshots before, but here are Keelie’s. Interestingly enough, we did a “pageant” shot and an “actor” shot. The actor shot is what she decided to use for both stage/film acting and also for her Miss New York headshot because it was the most true to Keelie and her natural, genuine brightness.

WEB DESIGN | Katie Stam, Miss America 2009

2010-04-02T23:43:00.003-04:00

What were those photos for? Her website! As Katie continues to book appearances around the state of Indiana and more all over the country, she needed a website for a marketing tool, booking/inquiries and information. Soon to come -- the Katie Stam "Store"

Here's a look at the site so far! Visit www.missamericakatiestam.com

We also made the letterhead for Katie's contracts as well as her new business cards.

PHOTOSHOOT | Katie Stam, Miss America 2009

2010-04-02T23:39:00.003-04:00

She gave up her crown, and now it's time for life after Miss America. Katie Stam is a beautiful woman inside and out and I love working with her! We had a great time doing this photoshoot in Katie's new apartment in Indiana just days before flying out to Las Vegas to give up her title of Miss America 2009. We did a little traditional, a little professional, a little sexy and a little fun!

Click HERE to view more of our photoshoot.

Light for Haiti

2010-04-02T23:37:00.001-04:00

Delayed, I realize.

The Light for Haiti event that we put on was a wonderful success. I think we had an emotional impact with everyone who attended and we raised a nice chunk of change for the GHESKIO Medical Center in Haiti. Here is a look at some of the amazing performers who shared their talents with us to benefit the people of Haiti.

HEADSHOTS | Miss Jubilee Contestants

2010-03-24T00:47:00.006-04:00

I wanted to wait until after the competition to post these headshots, so now, here they are! For Miss Jubilee, my local title in the Miss New York Organization, I held a preparation workshop for the contestants. One thing I offered in addition was a discounted headshot session. 30 min 2 looks, 1 black, 1 white background. Their headshots in the program were black and white, which is why you'll see a trend here. HERE is a look at their headshots all together.

2 Miss Contestants:
Cassie Franklin -- Congrats to Cassie, 1st Runner Up to Miss Jubilee! and my new sister queen, Miss Liberty!

Kathleen Griswold

2 Teen Contestants:
Sarah Herzberg -- Congrats to Sarah, 2nd Runner Up to Miss Jubilee's Outstanding Teen!

Yolanda Mackey

and yes, in addition a few weeks later, a judge even needed headshots! Will Post

WEB DESIGN | Devon Buchanan

2010-03-09T17:52:00.002-05:00

Remember Devon? She's baaacck!

Here is her final website! www.devabuchanan.com
Enjoy!

IYG Art Auction

2010-03-05T08:58:00.003-05:00

I know some Indianapolis folks read my blog, so I wanted to share a great event with you.

My younger sister, Hannah, is an intern for Indiana Youth Group where my parents also serve on the committee/board (?). They are having a fundraiser and art auction next weekend!

IYG Art Auction
Saturday, March 13, 2010
7:00-10:00 p.m.
Wheeler Art Center in the historic Fountain Square

This year's event promises an evening packed with live entertainment, our favorite artists, autioneers and friends. * I have 5 pieces in this event (below), so please - go bid!

One day left of Early Bird Tickets: VIP for $40 and General Admission $15
Prices at the door are VIP $45 and General $20

The VIP social hour will start at 7:00 p.m. New features for our VIPs include a private auction, complimentary drinks, hors d'oeuvres and VIP surprises throughout the evening. All proceeds from the event go to support the programs and services of IYG.

indianayouthgroup.org

Light for Haiti - UPDATES

2010-02-25T00:13:00.006-05:00

Yay!! We are on/in:

Playbill.com
Broadway.com
Broadwayworld.com

This is great publicity, but PLEASE continue telling your friends!!!

PRESALE TICKETS $40 at http://canalroom.com/event_detail.php?id=236

GENERAL ADMISSION AT THE DOOR $50

VIP TICKETS (Open top-shelf bar, sit with performers) $150

* The bar is cash only....bring lots! :)

Light for Haiti

2010-02-23T09:00:00.005-05:00

I have your weekend plans ready for you. I've been working hard with friends from college, Terra and Marcie, to produce a benefit concert for Haitian Relief. We have had some amazing people jump on board, namely the cast of Broadway's RACE, singer/songwriter Scott Alan, my dear friends Leigh-Taylor Smith (Miss NY 2008) and Jen Corey (Miss DC 2009), and many of the rising stars and voices you'll see in Broadway soon, but we need YOU to finish our circle. So here goes:

In light of the recent disaster that has devastated Haiti, a group of New York artists are coming together to produce a benefit concert to fund medical relief. The music and voices of Broadway, the passion of spoken word and slam poetry, the rhythm of Indie rock, R&B and reggae will all come together in one night at The Canal Room in New York City. Sunday, February 28 at 8:00 pm, please join us in celebrating our gifts of song, word and laughter to benefit the Haitian people.

Purchase tickets at www.canalroom.com
Make donations by contacting me 646.469.7559 or emailing lightforhaiti@gmail.com
An for more information, a complete (and incredible) list of perfomers, and to see exactly where our money is going, the GHESKIO Medical Center, go to www.lightforhaiti.net

HEADSHOTS | Devon

2010-02-16T12:03:00.005-05:00

actor . singer . funny gal

That's Devon for you! When you make a big change like dying your hair dark brown after being a bright blonde for a long time, it's headshot time! Here's the brunette version of this funny gal :)

View more photos from the photoshoot HERE.
Devon also took advantage of the Performer's Website offer with her headshots ... coming soon!

Art for the Heart

2010-02-16T11:35:00.003-05:00

Art for the Heart is an art auction benefiting the Perry Township Education Foundation in Indianapolis, IN where I went to High School. I've been involved in AFTH for a few years now and it's an honor to still be asked for work! This year I donated a piece "Festa Barocca" from the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre premiere. I'm excited to see the framed final product!

Art for the Heart

A fun evening of art and hors d'oeuvres to raise funds for Perry Township Education Foundation grants for teachers.

Sat, Feb. 27th, 2010

7:30p-10p @ Primo Banquet Hall

$40pp/$75couple

Purchase www.ptef.org, click "Donate Now" or 317.789.239

For more information and to see more work that will be at the art auction, follow Art for the Heart on Facebook HERE

HEADSHOT PROMO VIDEO!!!

2010-01-11T19:00:00.003-05:00

Weee!!! Yipee!!! Yayy!!! My headshot promo video is finished! One thing that separates me as a headshot photographer is the experience. Our photoshoot will be a conversation, not a modeling session - we all know how to talk, we don't all know how to model. So enjoy - "take a look at what it's like to shoot with CLAIRE BUFFIE: PHOTOGRAPHY&DESIGN" And remember...I'm the photographer, not the actor!

Thank you Franchesca for making this promo video! www.franchesca.net

(And Matt printed a new set of 100 headshots of the "smirk" and they showed up in the mail today, just in time for an audition tomorrow. Gorgeous.)

WEDDING | Caitlin & Philip

2010-01-02T14:47:00.002-05:00

One year ago, I photographed a childhood friend's wedding. Today Caitlin and Philip are defrosting their cake top and celebrating their 1 year anniversary! Congratulations! Although they did not get an album, here's a look back at their special day! Lots of dancing--It was a party!!

Additional Photo Credit: Adam Speck

KISS WEDDING ALBUM | Amanda & Bryan

2009-12-30T00:25:00.007-05:00

Ok, this is an exciting one! One of my closest friends (for the past 21 1/2 years), Amanda, got married this summer. Since I was a bridesmaid, I wasn't photographing, but I did design her wedding album. Now that the parents have all received their Christmas presents, I can put it up here! I once again used the beautiful KISS Wedding Books and put together a gorgeous 15-page, lay-flat 10x10 leather album for the newlyweds. For the parents, we did the new Soft KISS books: also 10x10, linen books with flexible lay-flat pages. Photos will come of the actual books, but for starters here is their layout.

Disclaimer: I designed this book, but all original wedding photography credit goes to the fun and fantastic Jim & Debbie Meyer of Meyer Photography.

In KISS albums, the pages lay flat, so the book doesn't have this center line, but this is the easiest way to show you the album! Enjoy! (Click to view full screen)

Learn more about my custom wedding album design and view prices at www.clairebuffie.com/weddings

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-27T11:40:00.003-05:00

Wishing you a happy, safe and healthy Holiday Season and a productive and exciting New Year!!
:) CLAIRE

Here is how Kirsten Haglund wished everyone Happy Holidays from the Kirsten Haglund Foundation.

HEADSHOTS | Franchesca

2009-12-19T11:41:00.004-05:00

Franchesca is a singer . comedian . designer . not necessarily in that order.
www.franchesca.net | www.youtube.com/chescaleigh

New agent = new headshots! We had a variety to capture with Fran's headshots: the inner warmth and joy in her smile for singing/acting/comedy and also a more professional shot for hosting. This girl has hosted the Emmy Red Carpet for YouTube! It was a great shoot - the last outdoor one of the year for me (I say this as NY expects 16" of snow tonight). She has also been working on a headshot promo video for me, so look for that soon too!

View Franchesca's Photos HERE

HEADSHOTS | Matt

2009-12-14T16:02:00.009-05:00

Round One headshots with Matt were brooding with short buzzed hair. So naturally, Round Two needed to let you find the sparkle in his eye and justify those years of orthodontia! Really, he just stepped in for a discounted shoot for a headshot commercial I was making (coming soon!), but we ended up with some fantastic new headshots featuring a little more hair, a little more smile :)

View some favorites HERE

GUYS & DOLLS | Hewlett High School, Long Island

2009-11-29T17:58:00.006-05:00

For the past 2 ½ months, I’ve been doing something pretty amazing. I have been choreographing Guys & Dolls for G.W. Hewlett High School, under the direction of Walter Lastowski and Eric Williams. These kids have worked so incredibly hard and it was inspiring and motivating to be a part of. 10 weeks ago, the boys were having a rough time with coffee grinders and cartwheels, and now they’re seamlessly jumping in each other’s places in absence and adding their own humor and flairs to the choreography.

After rehearsals and rehearsals, I sat in the audience on opening night and witnessed something so beautiful. To observe the parents in the lobby gushing over their kids and to see the pride on not only their faces, but the smile-streaked faces of the 80 kids in this production was just soooo neat. And their directors/teachers. I was in musicals in high school, so I get it. There is just something uniquely special about the relationship that is built between people in theatre. Walter and Eric give these kids a gift they love now, but may not completely understand until they are 23 and they return to Hewlett (or another high school) to watch a production, or even more, help choreograph or direct one. Hewlett HS and MS are so fortunate to have the blessing of these two teachers who genuinely love and care about every student who graces their stage, classroom, or office. And I’m so thankful to have been a part of the musical, yes, but more importantly, their lives.

Stepping off the soap box and putting on my entrepreneurial cap… I wanted to give something else to the show and the kids besides dance, so I photographed their final dress rehearsal. Approximately 750 pictures later, fajitas cooked by Eric, and a moment of sleep-deprived slap-happiness with Walter, I present to you, Guys & Dolls, in photographs. HERE – we narrowed it to 500.

HEADSHOTS SPECIAL!

2009-11-07T15:02:00.004-05:00

NYC is going to be bright and beautiful this week November 9-13.

Headshot availability:

MONDAY All day
60s sunny

TUESDAY Morning sessions
60s sunny

WEDNESDAY rainy. :(

THURSDAY Morning sessions
high 50s sunny

FRIDAY All day
high 50s sunny

New headshots added recently to my portfolio HEADSHOTS

VIEW package information and pricing
$300 and $400 packages available

Bring a friend and you'll both receive 10% off your headshot package!

To schedule your session:
Email cb.clairebuffie@gmail.com
Phone 646.469.7559
Facebook CLAIRE BUFFIE:PHOTOGRAPHY&DESIGN

WEB DESIGN | Kevin Hellmuth - Photographer | Exhibitionist

2009-11-07T14:22:00.003-05:00

Kevin Hellmuth is an interesting photographer, capturing and revealing the truths about workhorses in New York through his exhibition FoxTrot. FoxTrot has been an installation at New World Stages in midtown Manhattan and on December 10, 2009, Kevin will add a new collection to the exhibit. Just in time for the major press release, I designed his new site www.kevinhellmuth.com. This new site features 2 exhibitions, FoxTrot and ParaNorm, and and additional 4 galleries of Kevin's creative photography. He also has a new blog to feature updates on the FoxTrot release and more news.

Take a look! www.kevinhellmuth.com

WEB DESIGN | The Counterpoint Group

2009-11-02T23:19:00.002-05:00

The Counterpoint Group is a a boutique government relations and consulting firm that specializes in six core areas, creating individualized approaches and successes for our clients on a bi-partisan and global basis.

Arts Advocacy - Arts Consultancy - Defense Projects - Global Representation - Government Strategy - Technology Solutions

View their website: www.cpgdc.com

They have been fantastic about updating their blog - really using this tool for publicity and client recognition. www.cpgdc.blogspot.com

WEB DESIGN | Jordan Fylonenko

2009-11-02T23:11:00.002-05:00

Jordan Fylonenko is a Public Relations specialist from Michigan. www.jordanfylonenko.com now features his portfolio, resume, social media links and blog.

Per usual, Jordan's website also features a blog that he can update regularly. jordanfylonenko.blogspot.com He also has the Twitter update feature embedded in his homepage of the website -- when he updates his Twitter independently, the feed directly updates on his website.

UPDATES!

2009-09-29T23:13:00.002-04:00

I realize that if you're reading my photo&design blog that you probably check my website as well, but just in case....CHECK IT NOW! I [finally] added lots of new headshots and revamped that part of my website a bit to feature newer [& better] material. Older headshots are still there, just archived. I'll be adding new dance and wedding photos soon as well. So keep checking in!

www.clairebuffie.com

And below is an exciting newly completed project - take a look!

JEN COREY, Miss DC 2009 | The whole package.

2009-09-29T22:12:00.007-04:00

Well, she is the whole package. But HERE is the whole package that I have produced for her!

WEBSITE www.jennifercorey.com
On the homepage of Jen's site, you can choose "Soprano" or "Miss District of Columbia 2009" I recommend the latter, since it's the one that is finished :) This site features a few new things I have to offer: Twitter updates and Lightbox. As Jen remotely updates her Twitter, her homepage reflects the updates automatically so that you can always keep up with what she's doing - and she's busy! Most of her pages feature 5 select images in addition to her many photo galleries that all are viewable through Lightbox - click on the thumbnail and it zooms in on your screen.

BUSINESS CARDS
As Miss DC 2009, Jen meets a lot of people at events with whom she needs to develop a network and keep in contact - business cards are a must. Also, since Jen's platform is about going green, we printed through a company with soy inks & 100% recycled paper.

AUTOGRAPH CARDS - THANK YOU CARDS
She's famous. Autograph cards and a silver Sharpie are as necessary as lipstick in a pageant girl's life.

PHOTOSHOOTS
But what would all those autograph cards, website add-ons, etc be without great photos? I went out to Long Island where Jen's family lives and did 2 photoshoots, totaling 5 hours. We did all of her official crown shots in a variety of outfits. Click HERE to view a few favorites.

LET'S TALK TRASH
A while ago, I updated with the logo we developed for Jen's platform "Let's Talk Trash" We also did a photoshoot for her platform -- a 6' tall blonde in an evening gown, crown, sash and garbage trucks. Totally normal right? It was a blast and we got some GREAT photos! Click HERE to view the Let's Talk Trash photoshoot.

Make your own red carpet!

2009-09-22T14:10:00.004-04:00

If you want to add some spice to your next event, create a "step & repeat" for your red carpet backdrop. These backdrops are great for your event publicity because any photo taken has your company, your brand, sponsors, etc dashed all over them. Sponsors are more likely to give if they know they will receive publicity in return. Check out Kirsten on the red carpet of her "Celebration of Life" 21st Birthday celebration & fundraiser for the Kirsten Haglund Foundation for Eating Disorders.

Photo credit: Sam T'ang Studios | Wixom, MI | SamTangStudios@yahoo.com | www.SamTang.com

More KHF | Invitations

2009-09-04T10:04:00.004-04:00

Continuing my work with the Kirsten Haglund Foundation, I designed some postcard invitations for Kirsten's 21st Birthday Party and Fundraiser for her Foundation. Wouldn't you like to go to Miss America (08)'s birthday? I know I would. I wish I could fly in for the event, but it just doesn't work with my schedule. If you're in the midwest though, you should take a trip. They have put a lot of effort into the event and it's going to be great! For tickets, visit www.kirstenhaglund.com

Ohh! And I just found out that the invitation is online in Four Points Magazine -- along with the web banner on top.

Miss New York 2008 | Leigh-Taylor Smith

2009-08-22T14:31:00.006-04:00

Ok so remember that fabulous skyline from Jon & Keri’s wedding? Also perfect for Miss New York in her crown and sash in her Miss America evening gown. Leigh-Taylor Smith and I headed out to Long Island City while Jon was out at a softball game to take some photos to remember her year, where she lives and what she has represented. And then to capture the “real” LT, we jumped around to some pretty random places in an Anthropologie dress and cowboy boots. I think we got the real deal. At least Lisa (mom) says we did.

The Miss New York Organization was excited to see the photos as well and used them in the program book for the 2009 pageant. Maybe we'll make it a tradition...when's your shoot, Alyse?

View Leigh-Taylor’s Miss New York Photoshoot

WEDDING | Jon & Keri

2009-08-16T00:41:00.003-04:00

You never know when you’re going to need a business card.

As I was frantically trying to figure out how I would get back to Indianapolis in November to photograph a wedding, and as my flight was cancelled, some guy kept asking me about wedding photography. I tossed a card his way, yelled “Nice to meet you, call me!” as I ran to my gate….and 5 months later, he called. Jon & Keri are awesome people and wonderful new friends in NY. They have the penthouse apartment on the water in Long Island City – perfect for photographing their wedding party with the entire NY skyline in the background. We did all of their wedding photos before the ceremony, so instead of Jon seeing Keri walk down the aisle for the first time, he saw her coming around the corner on the same rooftop to the place of his proposal and their engagement dinner. Pretty perfect. On May 23, 2009, some very tall people – there were NBA, MLB, NFL group shots taken – filled the West Side Loft in Manhattan to watch these two get married in a very unique and special ceremony. As it was the goal, this wedding was a party. Cheers!

View a few highlights from Jon & Keri’s Day – May 23, 2009

WEB DESIGN | Miss Duneland

2009-08-03T12:57:00.004-04:00

As you can see, the Miss America Organization has benefited my professional network as well as my social and pageant aspects of my life. When I began in this organization back in Indiana, my title was Miss Duneland 2007. I developed a website for them years ago and I'm still maintaining it as my way to give back to the organization that has shaped my life. It's a simple iWeb site, but would be a perfect, easy, and inexpensive way for me to get you started and maintaining a website for you!

Some fun stories about Miss Duneland successes including Miss America 2009, Miss Indiana 2008-2009 and Miss Indiana's Outstanding Teen 2008-2009 can be seen on my Miss Jubilee blog.

Visit www.missduneland.com here!

KIRSTEN HAGLUND FOUNDATION | Part 2

2009-07-31T18:23:00.004-04:00

Updating our progress since my original post on the Kirsten Haglund Foundation!

Let me share a little bit about our collaborative process. Kirsten (Miss America 2008) is the founder of the Kirsten Haglund Foundation, naturally, and she is out of Los Angeles, CA. The KHF is also run by Kirsten's mom, Iora Haglund and the Executive Director, Deb Zale both based in Michigan. We all work together via email to brand the foundation. The website services have been donated by a designer in Michigan. So my job was to develop print and web materials to support her new brand that I designed, yet create elements to support the existing website as well in order to bring everything together.

So here are the final products!

Logo:

Letterhead:

Tshirts:

Blog:

Go to Kirsten's blog

From the previous post:
Miss America 2008, Kirsten Haglund, has developed her own foundation to continue her work creating awareness and education about eating disorders. From an existing photoshoot and motto [Love your body, Rock the world], I helped her develop a logo and apply it to print materials: letterhead/envelopes, greeting cards, t-shirts & hats.
View the existing site here for more information: www.kirstenhaglund.org

WEB DESIGN | Shellenberger Florida Home

2009-07-31T18:16:00.002-04:00

The internet is the best form of marketing. People want photos and need to be visually stimulated and clearly informed. That was the plan for the Shellenbergers' Florida Home very simple website. It’s a great place to stay if you are visiting Disney World or any other surrounding Orlando/Kissimmee areas – private pool, great neighborhood!

Check it out here: www.shellenbergerfloridahome.com

MICHELE’S DANCE CENTER | NY Dance Study Trip

2009-07-27T12:57:00.002-04:00

About 30 dancers from Michele’s Dance Center in Pittsburg, PA came out to NYC for a Dance Study trip at Broadway Dance Center. We took some group photos in front and then I photographed their private Master Class with professionals from Billy Elliot and The Little Mermaid.

View MDC’s NY Dance Study Trip Photos

LAUREN | Headshots

2009-07-23T12:12:00.001-04:00

Family reunions are for more than good laughs, food, and fun. At my grandma’s 80th birthday, Lauren and I stepped aside to shoot some new headshots for both commercial and film/television for Los Angeles. We did a few looks for her with different hair to get a variety and also did some plain white background pictures (backdrop holding courtesy of our cousin Dylan).

View Lauren’s Headshot Gallery

KIRSTEN HAGLUND FOUNDATION

2009-07-22T17:06:00.011-04:00

Miss America 2008, Kirsten Haglund, has developed her own foundation to continue her work creating awareness and education about eating disorders. From an existing photoshoot and motto [Love your body, Rock the world], I helped her develop a logo and apply it to print materials: letterhead/envelopes, greeting cards, t-shirts & hats. We have developed a new direction for her website as well that will be revealed in the future.

We are also developing a letterhead and envelope set. Help us decide which ones to choose! Click HERE or on the image below to view the letterhead proofs, and leave comments on the blog with your feedback!

View the existing site here for more information: www.kirstenhaglund.com

Become a fan of the Kirsten Haglund Foundation on Facebook

ALEX | Headshots

2009-06-11T18:54:00.003-04:00

Need show choir or musical choreography? I've got your guy. Alex Hall. [But seriously...if you want information, email me]

Aside from the fact that it was pretty chilly and at times, drizzling rain, Alex and I had a great shoot with a lot of variety. Two outfits were accessorized with rockin' glasses that basically brought his "look" count to 4. [Remember this when you are picking out clothes for your photoshoot.] In addition to some fun ones showcasing the "boingy-ness" of that curly hair, we ended up with a great headshot [above left] for his immediate Spring Awakening audition, and a variety for other auditions: musical, television, dance and, if you ask the ladies - or most men in NY - modeling. Yep...take a look below!

Click here to view Alex's gallery.

BETHANY | Headshots

2009-06-11T17:49:00.002-04:00

As Miss Central Indiana 2008, I offered my services of headshot photography to the new Miss Central Indiana 2009. Here she is! On her way to Miss Indiana - Bethany Clemens! Hey it worked out because not only did she get great, unique and natural headshots, but I got a beautiful redhead for my portfolio to share with all of you! GOOD LUCK AT MISS INDIANA, BETHANY!!

Fun Fact: Miss America 1944 was Venus Ramey of Kentucky, the first redhead to win the title. Look what I found in search of that answer.... CLICK HERE.

Click here to view Bethany's gallery.

Autograph cards for Bethany too!

LYDIA | Headshots

2009-06-06T23:21:00.005-04:00

Lydia is a trip. Tell you what. She is probably the coolest 17 year old I know though. A [now] senior in high school, this girl is incredibly talented. Lydia was last year's 2nd Runner Up to Miss Indiana Outstanding Teen and Overall Talent Winner. This year she is back again to take the whole thing! A wonderful musical theatre actress as well, we did some headshots to use for both pageants and acting.

One really neat thing about this photoshoot was the hair. Lydia's got naturally curly crazy self-proclaimed "homeless" hair. But in one photoshoot, we captured 3 completely different looks: straight hair, curled, and naturally curly. So for all of you curly hair folks out there, come with it straight for round one pictures then dunk it in the sink and voila! round two will give you a second completely different look in one photoshoot!

Click here to view Lydia's gallery.

We also made autograph pages for Miss Indiana's Outstanding Teen! If you want an autograph, just let me know :)

ALEX | Headshots & Dancer Bodyshots

2009-06-06T22:39:00.003-04:00

It's been a long time since I've updated, so my "New June Resolution" is to be better about that.

For starters, here are some photos I did of a young male ballet dancer from Ballet Academy East. His image gallery includes a few headshots and standard bodyshots. We shot a few fun ones at the end too. Good luck at auditions, Alex!

Click here to view Alex's gallery.

MISS AMERICA | INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY

2009-03-22T16:41:00.006-04:00

Margo Wininger, Art Director of Indianapolis Monthly: "Would you be interested in photographing our 'Day in the Life of Miss America' story?"

Me: "YES!"

I had already planned on returning to Indianapolis for the Miss America Homecoming celebration in honor of Katie Stam, once Miss Indiana, now Miss America 2009! And then I get this opportunity! [Thanks to Bridget Bobel, Michael Nash and Editor David Zivan] I arrived at the Statehouse around 1:00 to meet the writer, Daniel Comiskey, and photograph the "behind the scenes" moments of Katie meeting members of the House and Senate from the entire state, following her lunch and workout with the Governor. On the Senate floor, she was presented with the Sagamore of the Wabash award, the highest distinction given by the Governor.

After leaving the Statehouse, we went to University of Indianapolis where she was interviewed by the school radio, television broadcast and an additional documentary. Not only was Katie home in Indianapolis, but she was home in the studio in which she had spent so much time during college, preparing herself for her career in broadcast journalism. After a quick meeting with her advisor about graduation, we went to a reception and she was given a standing ovation and wonderful words from Beverly Pitts, the University President and her academic advisor. She was very touched by the reception and took that time to remind everyone that she is Katie, who just happens to be Miss America, but crown, pin, sash, and title aside, she is just Katie. A long line awaited Katie to personally greet and congratulate her, ending with her Miss Indiana successor and fellow UIndy grad, Megan Meadors.

This was wonderful to be a part of. Look for the article in next month's Indianapolis Monthly Magazine! View more photos HERE.

P.S. It's not REALLY a cover story ... but can't we wish?

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATRE

2009-03-22T13:39:00.011-04:00

Happy 50th Anniversary to Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre! On December 12, 2008, I was incredibly fortunate to witness and photograph the world premiere of Festa Barocca, by Italian choreographer Mauro Bigonzetti. The 45-minute piece was full of vibrant color, constant energy and movement and celebration, featuring all 31 Ailey dancers. As Bigonzetti introduced the piece with Judith Jamison, AAADT Artistic Director, he said he began choreography and collaboration with the dancers and before he knew it, fell in love with all of them as he continually added more and more dancers to the stage.

This was an "ah-ha!" moment for me. I was sitting in a theatre, with premiere privileges as "Press" (for Movmnt Magazine) to photograph amazing dance - my passion in one setting. I was the youngest of any of the seven other photographers there, and I realized that I am achieving my dreams and doing what I can to pursue this career NOW because you can only live in the present.

Enjoy more photos HERE.

AMERICA'S BEST DANCE CREW (2008)

2009-03-21T14:43:00.003-04:00

Back in the fall for Movmnt Magazine, I took the PATH train out to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center to photograph awesome show "Randy Jackson Presents: America's Best Dance Crew LIVE" ABDC, featuring the Jabberwockees, brought the best dances from what you saw on MTV to the stage! It was an incredible and entertaining show. I even snuck up pretty close for the 2nd act to get some close-ups! Here are some highlights -- view more HERE.

WEBSITE REDESIGN

2009-03-21T14:19:00.003-04:00

Sometimes, the content is there, the ideas are there, but the design elements are lacking. This is something I really enjoy. I can help take the ideas from your head and get them down on paper and then onto the Internet. After meeting at a dinner party on the Upper East Side, Sojin Song and I began talking about travel, the Peace Corps, international cuisine, photography and then into the really dorky stuff about web design & graphic design. With an MBA from Columbia Business School, Sojin offers his services as a consultant for MBA Admissions preparation and more. His website is purely text-based, so we had to snaz things up a bit! Here's the result - and if you ever need some business advice...sounds like he's your guy! www.mbavantage.com

We also did a logo design and business card design to complete the package and branding of Sojin's company.

BEFORE:

WEB DESIGN

2009-03-03T01:21:00.004-05:00

Check out a new web site that I designed! Healthy Concepts Consulting is a division of Your Ideal Coach, LLC developed by Betsy Bobel Opyt. A native of Indiana and former Miss Indiana, Betsy is now in Naples, FL where she works as a registered dietician, personal trainer, and more. Starting off in a new business requires a lot of marketing and networking, and a web site is a great way to do all of that! Check it out -- www.healthyconceptsconsulting.com.

LOVE

2009-02-14T11:14:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentines Day! Celebrate LOVE by watching this short video "Fidelity" and signing the Courage Campaign letter.

"We, the undersigned, share President Barack Obama's view that "for too long, issues of LGBT rights have been exploited by those seeking to divide us. It's time to move beyond polarization and live up to our founding promise of equality by treating all our citizens with dignity and respect."

... We know that, ultimately, love will prevail, no matter how hard they try to fight it."

It takes individuals AND businesses to support a cause and move towards equality.
Join the movement.

WEDDINGS

2009-02-10T18:00:00.007-05:00

In the WEDDINGS section of my website, you'll find lots of new things:

New LAYOUT ... New WEDDINGS ... New ALBUMS ... New PACKAGES ... New PRICES.
Take a look around!

MISS AMERICA 2009

2009-02-10T01:25:00.013-05:00

Congratulations to Miss America 2009, Katie Stam! On January 24th in Las Vegas, Katie was the first Miss Indiana to win Miss America, and we are all so incredibly proud of her! Katie and I competed in Miss Central Indiana together in 2008, and I later crowned her Miss Duneland 2008. She went on to win the title of Miss Indiana in June 2008, where I was her 2nd runner up.
For more photos and a blog from Vegas, visit The Trio Blog.

Before I moved out to NYC, I did an impromptu photoshoot with Katie that quickly became the front of my website - what a stunning beauty! After spending time together in New York City recently during her small bit of time off, Katie and I discussed the possibilities of some future photoshoots together. Keep you posted - cross your fingers!

If you are interested in new pageant headshots, contact me! As a contestant, I can relate and love giving pageant girls a natural look - the new direction for pageant photography. Maybe you'll end up not just on the front of my website, but on the Miss America runway as well!

NEW IN 2009

2009-02-10T00:27:00.010-05:00

A little late but ... Happy New Year! 2009 has brought a lot of changes for me. Not only do I have a new home in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, but I have some great news to share. As some have heard, I have resigned from Movmnt Magazine (quarterly magazine for fashion, dance, music and pop culture). I am extremely excited for this opportunity to explore my future on my own.

So it's official. CLAIRE BUFFIE:photography&design my full time business! Continuing to specialize in actor/dancer headshots and weddings, I am also committed to using this new-found time and freedom to explore deeper with my dance photography and get creative with fashion photography as well as sharpen up my web design. This is a big leap for me, but an exciting one!

Every college graduate has that “oh no, I’m adult, what now?” moment – and I had mine. But moving to NYC was a wonderful decision and opens me to a world of opportunity to promote the performing arts, which has always been my ambition. Many of you have been a part of the building process and foundation of my business, and for that I am very thankful. I have fed off of the energy from shooting actors, and hearing of their successes and being a part of weddings, witnessing great celebrations of love. And with that, I have experienced my post-graduate “ah-hah!” moment. This is what I want to do. I want to capture moments, promote talent and help people succeed and reach their dreams. I’m reaching towards mine – it’s a good thing I have long arms :)

As I move forward on this new adventure, I will never forget the people with whom it all started. Thank you for trusting me with your special day, your headshot, your safety in dance shoots and your memories. I look forward to many more!

Claire