Meet LuAnn Warner-Prokos | Fine Art Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with LuAnn Warner-Prokos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi LuAnn, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
One main genre of my Fine Art Portraiture business is my 40 Over 40 Campaign (in its 3 year in 2024) celebrating women in SE Florida. I photograph 40 women from 40 years old to over 90 each year, and these sessions are transformational for many. Women of a certain age do not feel seen anymore; they feel society tells them they are not beautiful anymore; they do not feel their strengths, talents, intelligence is appreciated anymore. Some want to celebrate how far they have come in their careers, their accomplishments, other milestones. Some want to celebrate surviving cancer or tragedy or even finding the courage to leave a disastrous marriage. I have cried with some, I have laughed and rejoiced with all. After a day of pampering (prof. hair and makeup artistry, use of my gowns, prosecco and treats, etc) and being shown how beautiful each is just looking at one image on the back of the camera prior to editing, these women have enjoyed a day they will not forget. I ahve a number of women who sign up who lead or are part of local nonprofits – these nonprofits receive exposure. A local high end furniture store hosts my Portrait Experience Cocktail Reception where each woman has a large print and bio placed around the store – this year over 275 people attended this wonderful event! I also photograph promotional major images for 2 large nonprofits; for one, their major donors and some of their constituents. These images help the nonprofits bring in more money and donors.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I worked to get above the “fray,” so-to-speak, with so many “professional” photographers who do not udnerstand the cost of doing business and have revenues of $50,000 or less, meaning they have a hard time paying themselves after the costs of running their business. I am with those above that who are working to take photography back to the “main street” studio days of film photography. I also have worked hard to improve my craft, leading to more fine art images. I am out there networking, mingling with clients and future clients. I showcase fine art products and teach my clients the importance of holding their art in their hands, sharing the art with others by having it physically hanging in one’s home. I show them the beauty of their portraits in the physical form. I am also known for my editing – women love my editing (it is not overdone, but enhances their beauty). Men love it, too. Headshot and Branding clients love the variety of my poses and how I bring out their personality, strengths, and brand. And, most importantly, I am known for the experience I offer my clients, from the individual, to the family, to headshot and personal branding clients, to corporate clients. This growth was not easy, but I credit having mentors along the way. Lessons learned: do not be afraid to figure out the value of your art – the clients are there who will treasure the experience and the beautiful images you create that are a such gifts to individuals and families. To the community around me: hire a professional, someone you can trust to give you a fabulous experience, beautiful and strong images, product for you to treasure and pass on. Photography is part of our legacies – be seen, be photographed to show your beauty, your family, or to show your best side, personality, strengths,.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to the beach somewhere along A1A in Delray Beach (Gulf Stream, Highland Beach); then a walk along Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach to any of the fabulous restaurants. Lunch and walk-about at Morikami, Delray Beach, or tour of any of the natural parks to take photos of the birds, alligators, etc. A drive to Miami to tour historical Vizcaya.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shout out first goes to my husband, John Prokos, who has supported me in this 13-year journey to improve my craft, find the perfect studio space, and move to a luxe brand. I thank all of the photographers around the world whose education I sought out to improve not only my art, but also mentor me in valuing my art and the cost of running this business. In particular, Megan DiPiero and her Level Up education and her mentoring program. I am now in the top 3% of photography businesses revenue-wise in the country. I am also an award-winning photographer at the international and national level, as well as state and local levels; most recently 2 of my images were ranked 26 and 28 in their respective genres (of 10 genres) in the Professional Photographers of America’s (PPA) international competition with over 7000 images being judged for all 10 categories.

Website: www.WPportraiture.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wpportraiture/

Linkedin: LuAnn Warner-Prokos

Facebook: WPportraiture

Image Credits
LuAnn Warner-Prokos, Warner-Prokos Photography