Why do I need a Professional Photographer?

In a world where everyone has a camera at the ready, it may make you question the value of a professional photographer. However, when it comes to presenting yourself, your business, or your company and its valuable employees, a professional photographer ensures a level of quality that tells your clients you’re serious about what you do! At Varitay, we believe stepping in front of the camera is more than just getting great photos. It’s about taking the time to invest in yourself, your business, or your family. It’s an act of love to yourself and a way to honor who you are and what you’ve created.

What services does Varitay Studios offer?

At Varitay Studios, we provide a comprehensive range of photography and video services tailored to meet both business and personal needs. Our services include professional headshots, corporate photography, and branding sessions designed to elevate your image, as well as contemporary portraiture, senior photos, and lifestyle sessions that capture all of life’s milestones In addition to our photography, our video team excels at transforming your business message into a captivating and authentic story. We make sure that your message resonates with your audience in an impactful way. Whether it’s social media shorts, mini-documentaries, corporate messaging, or commercials, we’re dedicated to creating videos that stand out and make a lasting impression.

What sets Varitay Studios apart from other photographers or studios?

There are many talented photographers out there, but at Varitay Studios, we bring something uniquely personal to our work. Here’s what sets us apart: Everyone Deserves a Beautiful Portrait: We believe in the transformative power of a great image. I want to share a story with you: One of our creative partners, despite being in the industry, never had a professional headshot. Like the cobbler’s kids with no shoes, he didn’t prioritize it for himself and didn’t feel worthy of having one. One day, while testing my lights, I asked him to sit in as a light subject. I took a headshot of him, and he later posted it to his profile. The impact was profound. He came back to the studio with surprising emotion, saying, “I never understood it, I never valued it, but that photo you took of me makes me see myself in a whole new way. It’s like I believe in myself and what I can do creatively. When I see that image in the morning, it makes me want to live up to what I see.” This was just from a light test, but it highlights the transformative power of a great headshot. It’s not just about the photo; it’s about how it makes you feel and see yourself. Fostering Connection: Our work is about more than just taking pictures. It’s about bridging the gap between the creative and corporate worlds, helping businesses and individuals connect more deeply with their audience. We’re passionate about integrating the artistic and intuitive aspects of our craft with the practical needs of our clients. Community Focus: We want to make our community shine. Our goal is to help local businesses and individuals look as amazing on the outside as they are on the inside. Promoting yourself can be tough, whether you’re busy, shy, or simply overwhelmed. But remember, it’s not just about you—it’s about showcasing the incredible value you bring to the world. We don’t just take pictures – we create, we connect & we celebrate.

Why is Professional Photography so expensive?

At Varitay Studios, our pricing reflects over 30 years of experience and talent. Photography isn’t just about snapping pictures—it involves hours of prep work, image culling, processing, and editing. For every hour of shooting, we spend 2-3 hours behind the scenes making sure each photo looks amazing. Just because we make it look easy doesn’t mean it is! All this effort ensures you get top-quality results that are worth every penny.

Do you shoot on location or in studio?

Varitay Studios offers both on-location and in-studio shoots across Southeastern Wisconsin, Racine, Kenosha, Northern Illinois, and the Chicago area. You can choose our historic downtown Racine studio, which spans over 2000 square feet and captures the vibe of a chic cocktail lounge. It’s fully equipped with everything you need to feel confident and creative, including a fantastic stereo sound system that helps us set the mood during your session. Get your favorite playlist ready! Alternatively, we can bring the studio to you. With portable lighting and camera setups, we’re ready to capture stunning images at your office, place of business, or home, depending on what suits your project best. We’ll help you decide which option works best for your needs.

Do I need to prepare anything before my Portrait Session?

Remember we are experts, and you do not have to stress about the session (even though you still will!). At minimum, come as you are, and we’ll make it work. For those who want to be a bit more prepared, here’s what we suggest: Clothing: Bring a variety of outfits to the shoot. Include something classic and simple, something fun that shows off your style, as well as options that are casual and more formal. At the beginning of the session, we’ll go through your wardrobe together and plan the shoot around your outfits, backdrops, and locations. Sleep and Water: Aim for a good night’s sleep before your session and come well-hydrated. Avoid any wild nights out the evening before! Makeup and Hair: We love capturing you as your natural self, but if you’d like to enhance your look, we offer hair and makeup services for an additional cost. For women, we recommend avoiding heavy highlighting makeup, as it can reflect under studio lights and may not photograph well. For men, a fresh shave and grooming are always appreciated. Parking and Entrance: There is metered parking on Main Street—don’t forget to plug the meter or use our parking app Passport. Our front door is locked, so when you arrive, please text us: Cam at 262-498-4075 or Jean at 262-664-3770, and we will come down to let you in!

CASE STUDY: Confronting Racism Through Story

THE JOHNSON FOUNDATION

Featuring: REGGIE JACKSON

Book Your Session Now

Varitay Studios photographer records seated group on smartphone in wood-accented room, Racine WI

Highlights from Our Time with Reggie Jackson

Man in blue dress shirt gestures while speaking indoors at Varitay Studios, Racine WI

Two men smiling, one in “Art is culture” tee, photographed by Varitay Studios in Racine, WI

Man in blue shirt speaking beside display near buildings, Varitay Studios photography in Racine WI

Two men viewing a black and white portrait at Varitay Studios photography in Racine, WI

Black man with dreadlocks speaking and gesturing, wearing "art is culture" tee in Racine, WI

Man filmed during professional photography session at Varitay Studios in Racine, WI with lighting gear

Four people posing in a Racine, WI studio photoshoot, three waving under professional lights

Professional portrait by Varitay Studios in Racine, WI of a Black man smiling in blue shirt and tie

Varitay Studios photographers by Racine, WI marina, one in blue tie, one in orange holding camera

Varitay Studios portrait of a Black man in a blue shirt and tie looking out a window, Racine WI

A man with dreadlocks wearing an “art is culture” shirt gestures while speaking in Racine, WI

Project Overview: Photography and Video Interview with Reggie Jackson

Objective

To visually capture Reggie Jackson’s impact on social justice and equity in Racine, supporting TJF’s mission to strengthen family bonds and empower youth in low-income communities.

About Reggie Jackson

Reggie Jackson is an award-winning journalist, race relations expert, and co-owner of Nurturing Diversity Partners. Based in Milwaukee, he is renowned for his work addressing social and economic disparities and his advocacy for equitable, inclusive communities. His engaging writing and community involvement have earned him numerous awards and widespread recognition. Jackson’s work continues to inspire and guide initiatives on social justice, community well-being, and understanding across media platforms.

Project Background

As part of a fun project with the Douglas Avenue BID, Varitay Studios was tasked with photographing ten local businesses, and Lopez Bakery was at the top of my list! I had passed by their vibrant murals on High Street and Douglas Ave countless times but had never popped inside. Big mistake!

Approach

We aimed to showcase Jackson’s personal and professional dedication to fostering positive change. By capturing authentic moments and dialogues, we highlighted how Reggie’s understanding of social and income disparities is essential to TJF’s initiatives. Our tour included stops at key community locations—Mahogany Gallery with Scott Terry, a coffee break at Esperanza Coffee in UpTown, and other sites that underscore Reggie’s impact and influence.

Results and Reflections

Our collaboration with Reggie Jackson is a prime example of how powerful voices like his can shape and inspire community-focused initiatives. Through candid photography and videography, we portrayed a story of dedication, insight, and real change. The final images and video convey TJF’s mission and Reggie’s lifelong commitment to creating communities where everyone has a place at the table.