Pin-Up & Boudoir Photography

September Issue, Vintage Life

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 19 Sep 2014 19:14:00 +0000

Hi there darling, I'm sorry for my hiatus. I've been busy with new shoots, I can't wait to share with you! You can follow my updates on Instagram here. Before September is over, I'm posting a Pin-Up portrait of a dear friend of mine, the talented and lovely Lottie Ryan, featured in this month's Vintage Life magazine. In this article, she writes how vintage styling and her first pin-up photo session with me, literally helped her recover from a major surgery, "rediscover her femininity" and love for glamour again. Not only is she one of the gorgeous pin-up girls selected for my collaboration with Goorin Bros. hat collection this year, she hosts a website devoted to women living with chronic illnesses. Her story is truly an amazing one and I'm so proud to know her and share her story with you. To read and purchase a physical copy of Vintage Life, click here. For digital, click here. I have more gorgeous new photos to share with you soon, so stay tuned! xoxo Kelly

Vintage Life Magazine, July Issue

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Wed, 02 Jul 2014 08:27:00 +0000

I had the honor of photographing Anna Delis, Design Director of Goorin Brothers, and some of their talented staff, for an interview published in this month's issue of Her Vintage Life magazine. My friend, writer Lottie Ryan gives us an insider's view, as she speaks to Anna about her hat design process, love of vintage styles, and inspiration behind the "California Girls" hat collection. You can get your copy of Her Vintage Life here, and digital version here. Seen as the #1 Vintage-inspired fashion magazine for enthusiasts worldwide, you won't be disappointed. I'm looking forward to reading this cover to cover this holiday weekend! Have a Happy 4th and thanks for stopping by! xo Kelly

Milliner extraordinare: Ron Schiller making custom hats in North Beach, San Francisco

Hat merchant Kyle Jameson McDaniel outside the Goorin Bros. North Beach, SF storefront; a stack of Goorin hats and a peekaboo inside the "Lady in Red Fedora"

Photos © Kelly Hsiao 2014

Goorin Bros. + Official California Girls Hat Launch!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 16 May 2014 07:08:00 +0000

Goorin Bros. the official hat makers of the legendary "Heisenberg" for AMC's hit show Breaking Bad, releases a new collection called California Girls, which features my pin-up imagery! I'm so excited to share that these hats are now available online and in selected stores nationwide! If you haven't tried on a Goorin hat, I highly recommend visiting one of their shops- it's truly an experience like no other! Not only is the quality of their hats amazing, you'll feel like you're stepping back into time when men still wore dapper suits, donned tweed flap caps, and women looked absolutely grandeur in broad-brimmed sun hats and beautifully tailored clothing. For those of you who own a Goorin, you know what I mean when you feel instantly transformed into an even more dashing you. I absolutely love their fedoras and I'm so honored to have two of my images featured inside the California Dreamin' and Lady in Red fedoras. Please check out this new collection and tell me know what you think! For all you surfers out there and outdoorsy folk, the Bay Watch Hat, was made especially for the sporty/active gal and guy like you. Stay tuned for a behind-the-scenes interview from the Design Director, Anna Delis of Goorin.Bros in an upcoming issue of Vintage Life magazine. Thanks for stopping by! xoxo Kelly

The Lady in Red fedora in black along with the final draft of California Girls lining tip stickers.

The Lady in Red cotton fedoras available in red and black

{ images above courtesy of Goorin Bros.}

Interior of Bay Watch Hat with California Dreamin' Straw Fedora in foreground. Both have my Surfer Pin-Up Girl on inside lining.

Collaboration with SF's Goorin Bros.

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Tue, 16 Jul 2013 06:07:00 +0000

I'm so excited to share that I will be working with SF hat company Goorin Brothers on an upcoming product line and ad campaign! The "California Girls" collection will debut Spring 2014 and feature my pin-up imagery. Here's a sneak peek at one of the images below. More details to follow! Thanks for stopping by! xoxo Kelly

Happy New Year! And a New Beginning...

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 23:46:00 +0000

Wow, it's a new year once again! Wishing everyone an inspiring and fresh start to 2013 and may your best dreams and moments be accomplished in this year. It's so important to live each and everyday appreciating the little things in life and the abundance of opportunity we have. I feel very fortunate to be doing what I love, yet there's always a time for change, transformation, and new challenges. That said, after much contemplation, I decided to take some personal time off from my studio and to focus on other projects this year. So unfortunately, I will not be taking any new clients at this time, only wrapping up final orders from 2012. I thank you all for your wonderful and continued support, I'm very proud of the work I've created during these 5 years. I want to thank all the wonderful women I had the honor and opportunity to work with, it has truly been a joyous experience to create with and for each of you. Remember to appreciate yourself, your body, mind and soul always. I believe every woman deserves to have some breathtaking photos, to celebrate yourself, and you can do so at any age. Stay beautiful inside and out! May this year bring out the very best in you and I hope our paths will cross one day. xoxo Kelly

Happy Holidays!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 01:34:00 +0000

Wishing everyone a joyful holiday season and bright prospects for the new year!

xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-up Styling by Ann Ho

Boudoir

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 16:31:00 +0000

Here's one of my favorite Boudoir portraits taken recently. With a more dramatic and moodier feel, I love black and white images that make beauty timeless. Kinda reminds me of an Estee Lauder ad, you know? Beautiful... Enjoy! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-Up Styling by Nikki Ngo

Surfs Up in October!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 18:01:00 +0000

This sun-kissed image is honoring the start of Surf season here in Nor Cal (which starts in October and goes throughout winter), leading to the great Mavericks in Feb/March. As I was anticipating some nice cool autumn weather this week and planning hearty fall recipes (like roasted acorn squash with cinnamon...) temps soared over the Bay Area, making me think of a classic surf film, The Endless Summer. I photographed this lovely real-life surfer girl (a total sweetheart) in my studio, but layered the image with watercolor effects. Hope you like it as much as I do! Enjoy! And now booking holiday sessions! xoxo Kelly

Make-Up and Hair Styling by Ann Ho

Happy Friday + Early Holiday Special!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 17:25:00 +0000

Now that fall is here and Halloween is just around the corner, it's time to start planning your holiday sessions! Schedule yours in time for a special gift to remember this year! We book out quickly so contact me before the last-minute rush and get a free Custom Print ($100 Value!) Must book by October 31st. Contact me at bayareapinups@gmail.com, find me on Facebook or check out my main website here. Hope to see you soon! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-Up Styling by Maggie Runner

The Girl Next Door...and Winner of the Pin-Up Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Earlier this year when my Facebook Page hit over 1000+ fans, I was so thrilled I offered a free Pin-Up session through a random drawing. Featured here is the lucky winner Linda! We did her photo session this week and here is a sneak peek at one of her gorgeous pin-ups! I'm so impressed by her natural "Girl Next Door" good looks and fantastically fit figure. Linda is an avid soccer player and you can see where she gets those killer legs! Her adorable outfit is from Pin-Up Girl Clothing, and aren't those just the cutest shoes? What are some of your favorite pin-up poses and outfits? I'd love to hear from you! Find me on Twitter and also check out my Pinterest boards for more inspiration. Remember, pin-ups are a way to celebrate you! Hope to see you soon! Congrats again Linda, on your amazing pin-ups! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-Up Styling by Maggie Runner

Vintage Glamour

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:57:00 +0000

I had the pleasure of photographing a remarkable lady recently, a dear friend and vintage aficionado. I first met Lottie when she interviewed me in early 2011 for her blog about vintage inspirations. I was immediately enamored by her grace and style, her charming British mannerisms, and kind, gentle spirit. When she told me she was the winning bidder for a photo session I donated this year to a local school auction, we were both so excited for that day to come. Alas, that day has arrived and here are a couple "sneak peeks" from our fabulously fun session! Nicki, a friend of Lottie's, did her exquisite hair & make-up styling. The gorgeous lingerie set Lottie is wearing, (a gift from hubby) is from What Katie Did. Shouldn't all husbands gift something lovely like this? So here's to celebrating a wonderful and beautiful person, mother, talented writer and creative spirit. I'm delighted to finally return a blog post about you! I'll be posting more pics from our session on my Facebook Page so stay tuned for more... Thanks for stopping by! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-Up Styling By Nicki Jones

Lady in Blue

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 16:20:00 +0000

Never judge a dress on it's hanger. That's my motto. I love it when clients bring in outfits that initially surprise me but end up photographing remarkably well for pin-ups. This lovely lady had a beautiful wrap dress but I wasn't sure at first how it would work with poses. Once she put it on, the royal blue just fit perfectly with her petite figure and it inspired us to do an "Elvgren" style shot. It ended up being one of my favorites! With the telephone and rose, it's such a classic! Let me know if you have an outfit you think would make a classic modern pin-up! And remember, never judge a dress until you try it on! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-up Styling by Emily Nguyen

Hello September...

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 16:12:00 +0000

Though Labor Day may officially mark the end of summer, I'm grateful that here in CA, we get a little prolonged sunlight and warmth, the pleasure of enjoying a few more evening dinners outside, and maybe even some extra beach time...What we call an "Indian summer". So just before the fall leaves start flittering by, here's a lovely pin-up to commemorate the last days of summer...for just a little while longer. :-) Enjoy! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-Up Styling by Ann Ho

Gentlemen Prefer Reds :-)

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 16:13:00 +0000

This month seemed to pass in a blink of an eye...I guess because I've been having loads of fun photographing some really gorgeous redheads in August! So it gives me great pleasure to share with you this recent picture of a lovely gal with the sweetest personality to match. I love this outfit she styled herself with the sweater and the little pop of leopard. How charming is this? Well, I hate to say goodbye to August but I know we're all looking forward to a much needed Labor Day weekend! So wishing you all a fabulous jet-set adventure wherever you go! Or if you're like me, I'll be relaxing at home with the family, a glass of wine or two, some BBQ and catching up on summer reading. Truman Capote has been on list and I'm absolutely infatuated with Breakfast at Tiffany's...So hope you enjoy yourselves and see you in September! xoxo Kelly

Make-Up and Hair Styling by Maggie Runner

A Classic Vargas Style Pin-Up

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 19:56:00 +0000

Happy Friday! I just love the idea of a modern girl with a classic take on pin-ups. This lovely lady happens to be not only a gorgeous red but a working mom as well! So here's a portrait of her in the gorgeous style of Vargas. Being a mom can only make a person so much more beautiful I think! For more modern Pin-Up inspiration, check out the Vanities Girls. I love this series because Pin-ups should truly be a work of art. If this is something you like too, shoot me a message and let's talk! Enjoy! xoxo Kelly

Make-up & Hair Styling by Maggie Runner

Sneak Peek into the Modern Black Book...

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 16:15:00 +0000

Happy Friday! Here's delicious little glimpse into The Modern Black Book, a simply gorgeous album (and my most popular item!) from my studio. Sleek and luxurious, this fine art book showcases your boudoir images at their very best. Offering full centerfold-style pages, it's guaranteed to impress...and stop a few hearts! Now that we're gearing for fall (I know, I know, did you see the new fashion collections out already?) it's only a hop, skip and jump away from the holidays. Remember, albums take a little extra time to beautifully craft so it's best to book at least two months in advance. So take a sneak peek and start thinking about some possible gifting ideas- either for yourself or your dearly beloved. Also great for birthdays, anniversaries or a personalized groom's gift! Hopefully you'll get inspired to create your own stunning visual memoir. And who doesn't deserve their gorgeousness captured in timeless photos? You certainly do! :) xoxo Kelly

Boudoir Posing Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 15:51:00 +0000

Happy August! Just wanted to share this charming little video of Zoe Saldana posing from the GQ archives. Watch this clip to get some posing ideas for your boudoir session. Miss Saldana brings so much personality during her shoot, sparks are flying on set! Just shows it's ok to have a little fun during your session! She also does some serious back arching in her cropped mesh sweater and boy shorts- epitomizing the modern GQ sexy look.
Contact me to start a conversation about what looks you would like for your boudoir session. My stylists and I customize each photo shoot with you so your results are nothing short of amazing. Our studio sessions are designed just like magazine production shoots with professional styling and multiple outfit/set changes. Email me for more info and to start planning your gorgeous boudoir session! Also check out my Pinterest boards for more styling ideas. Hope to see you soon! xoxo Kelly

Zoe Saldana - GQ Magazine from Two Penguins on Vimeo.

Black and White Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 08:31:00 +0000

Sometimes I find beauty in simplicity. Isn't it nice to go back to the basics once in a while? Just like the little black dress, this classic number makes a bold statement that never goes out of style. Elegant. Timeless. Iconic. Thanks for stopping by and contact me to talk about your summer pin-ups! xoxo Kelly

Black and White Inspiration by bayareapinups on polyvore.com

Vintage Inspired Swimwear

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 14:53:00 +0000

A few sizzling summer pin-up ideas! For a limited time, book a summer session and get $50 Off your 2nd and 3rd Outfit change! xoxo Kelly

Vintage Inspired Swimwear by bayareapinups featuring betsey johnson swimwear

Happy 4th of July + Summer Specials!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Here's some ideas to help you celebrate the American spirit this summer! With the sailor theme, it's sporty, sexy, and what girl doesn't look cute in an uniform? Let the red, white and blues inspire you to create your own classic pin-ups this summer! Contact me to get a *Special Summer* photo rate for a limited time! xoxo Kelly

Happy 4th of July! by bayareapinups featuring christian louboutin heels

Mix and match! This cute polka-dot halter swimsuit is worn with sailor shorts, both items from Pin-Up Girl Clothing. How is that for functional and fabulous? Red heels, sailor hat and lifesaver available at my studio :-)

Summer days are here!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 16:00:00 +0000

The halter swimsuit for summer pin-ups is a staple must-have! So versatile, flattering and works with a variety of poses and props. This red halter is available at my studio. The green one below is from www.pinupgirlclothing.com

For more pin-up outfit ideas, visit my Facebook Page album Retro Pin-Ups. Thanks for stopping by! Contact me to book your fabulous summer pin-ups! xoxo Kelly

Hair & Make-up by Ann Ho

Inspired by Bettie

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 19:40:00 +0000

Happy June lovelies! Here's some more Pin-Up Inspiration for this month! Here's paying homage to the lovely Bettie Page. Meow! xoxo Kelly

Make-Up Styling by Ann Ho

Happy Memorial Weekend!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 25 May 2012 22:54:00 +0000

Wishing you all a fabulous weekend and enjoy this sun-inspired pin-up! xoxo Kelly

Hair and Make-up Styling by Ann Ho

Are you ready for Summer Pin-Ups?

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Tue, 01 May 2012 07:03:00 +0000

I sure am! Now that the weather is getting warmer, it's the perfect time to start planning outdoor themed pin-ups! From "At the beach" to sailor and nautical styles, pin-ups are all about having fun themes + glamorous styling with a touch of tease...What perfect time then now to start planning your sultry summer pin-ups? Check out my Facebook page for more style inspirations. Will be sharing more fun Pin-Up themes soon! Stay tuned... xoxo Kelly

Featured in The Pin Up Mag!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly Hsiao Photography) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 18:59:00 +0000

I just received my copy of The Pin Up Mag [Winter 2012 edition] with my photos featuring the lovely and talented artist Lina Felicia! It's such an awesome honor to be featured in the magazine, especially with amazing Pin-Up girl Bernie Dexter on the Cover!

Lina originally came to me to have pictures taken for her website and we ended up with such a variety of gorgeous poses and portraits, I knew they could be magazine-worthy. To my delight, similar minds think alike and the editors wanted to feature our work! I believe every photo session is a collaboration between subject and photographer, and I love personalizing each shoot for the individual. It was so much fun working with another creative artist like Lina, who brought so many artistic ideas for her session. The gorgeous vintage-inspired girdle she's wearing is from Dollhouse Bettie with Make-Up/Hair Styling by Ann Ho. Thank you everyone for stopping by!