Aaron Jay Young Studio
Los Angeles based portrait photography
“It isn’t just the photograph. It’s the process. It is being open and allowing yourself the opportunity to be seen from a different perspective. Each perspective is to be celebrated, whether it feels safe and easy, or pushes you to outside your comfort zone. That is where the magic happens. That is where you give yourself the grace you deserve to heal, to feel loved, and to be seen.”
— Cat Ford-Coates (client)
Behind the Scenes at the Studio
Gallery
It’s time to boycott the word “photogenic”. We are all one-of-a-kind, unique human beings. How about we change it to “soulgenic” because when your soul shows up in the photograph that’s when the transformation happens.
About Aaron Jay Young
I’ve been a portrait photographer in Los Angeles for over a decade.
My work is my passion, it’s all my life experiences - the pain, the trauma, the work I’ve done to find forgiveness, love, and compassion for myself - that allows me to really see other people, their pain, their joy, their vulnerability, and capture it authentically.
Everybody deserves to be seen and to be heard.
More Than A Photoshoot
“The way that I photograph demands that you take the subject seriously no matter who they are or what they are. It’s like I’m tapping into the very human desire to be seen and heard that we all have. I get personal satisfaction from giving somebody the space to experience that.”
“Human connection is such a powerful thing because we are inspired through other people’s experience; We’re inspired through other peoples courage, you know. One person living an empowered life of purpose inspires everybody else to find their own purpose and just stand in their own power. I know that I connect with people on a deep level and so I know when I’ve captured them. […] I know when the magic happens as its happening, and the magic was happening all day today from the first photo.”
How the photoshoot experience works…
BEFORE THE SHOOT
Before booking a portrait photoshoot I always do a phone consultation to learn more about you, what kind of photos might be wanting, and to discuss other aspects like wardrobe and cost.
I will guide you in what outfits to bring and hair and makeup.
Hair and makeup is always available but not required, at an additional cost.
THE DAY OF YOUR SHOOT
On the day of the shoot you’ll arrive with your selected clothes and we’ll take a moment to just get to know each other a little more. We’ll hang up the clothes on a rack and take a look through them. The shoot itself lasts about 2 hours.
DURING THE SHOOT
During the shoot it will be more relaxed than any other photoshoot experience you might have had. I want to capture you so I do everything I can to make sure you feel safe and able to be yourself. I will guide you through the entire process, there’s really nothing you have to “do” except trust me. I guarantee we will get stunning images that you will love.
AFTER THE SHOOT
After the shoot, we will schedule a photo ordering appointment that will take place a couple of days later over a Zoom session. During these 2 days I will hand-pick the absolute best images from your shoot and you’ll have the opportunity to view the beautiful selection of images and decide which ones you would like to purchase.
Once you’ve made your decision, I will then retouch your purchased images (and have them printed if order prints) and have them ready for you within 2 weeks.
Memories that last a lifetime…
Testimonials
“I’m from Asheville, North Carolina and I came out to Los Angeles to be photographed by Aaron and of course he blew me away.”
“I’m really excited about this entire experience. I was cared for and seen in a way that I have not ever seen before in my life. One of the things that sort of gets you is when you’re seen by somebody that really gets you and what he draws out is pretty incredible. Thank you, Aaron.”
- Cat Ford-Coates
“I came from the UK to be photographed by Aaron because I absolutely love his work.”
“I have to say the whole experience was absolutely amazing. Seeing myself through Aaron’s lens has been really an incredible experience and very therapeutic. I just love the pictures and loved the whole session.”
- Lenka Jones
“I’ve been wanting to be photographed by Aaron for a long time.”
“I had an amazing session with him. He has a gift of bringing out the true essence and soul in somebody in a way that I don’t see many other photographers able to do. If you want to be photographed and have someone truly see you, you need to come and see this guy. He’s amazing.”
- Ann Landstrom
“It’s been an amazing experience.”
“The way he’s able to capture your essence and simply showcase to the world you’re the person you really want to be. I’m just floored by the results and I really hope you get to do this too.”
- Saray Taylor-Roman
Wall Art│Products
PET PHOTOGRAPHY
No matter if your pet as fur or scales, large or small, affectionate or independent, we will assist you through the entire portrait process to ensure we capture the genuine essence of the unique creature bringing joy to your life.
FAQs - You Asked, I’ve Answered!
I want to do this but I’m very nervous…
Every single person is nervous to have their photo taken. It’s normal. It is our job to create a space where you will feel completely safe to be yourself. There is no pressure, no expectations.
Where will the photoshoot take place?
The photoshoot will be at our beautiful studio in downtown Los Angeles. Occasionally we also will go on location to do shoots as well, It really all depends what the client wants.
What if I think I need to lose 10 lbs before booking my shoot?
This is one of the most common things we hear and it’s proven to be the same over and over again - You are perfect for this experience, right now, as you are. We will make sure you look amazing.
What about hair and makeup?
Usually men don’t need hair and makeup. However, it is available upon request for an additional fee. For Women, hair and makeup is always available for an additional fee and recommended, however you are welcome to do your own.
What if I have no idea how to pose?
It’s our job to direct you and make sure you look incredible. Your job is to just have fun.
I don’t think I’m photogenic so why would I do this?
The idea of being photogenic is a myth. We go beyond this idea to something called “soulgenic”. We capture your soul - the very essence of who you are. Every single person on the planet is soulgenic and we are on a mission to prove it, one human at a time.
Some of the most beautiful photographs you see on this site were taken of people who were convinced they were’t photogenic. It’s our job to really see you and to capture the true you. We are pretty sure you’ll fall in love with the person you see looking back in your photographs.
Contact Me
Hello! Are you ready to start planning your photoshoot?
Fill out the form below or schedule a consultation:
Feel free to call or message us directly
or schedule your consultation!
Phone: 424.335.1041
Email: Info@aaronjayyoungstudio.com
We would love to answer all your questions and go over details about the experience and pricing.
Location: 3430 S Hill Street #201, Los Angeles, CA 90007