I wanted to take photos to update my professional presence and I also have a big milestone birthday coming up. I am not comfortable with taking pictures in general. After researching several options I decided to go with Elisa. I'm so happy I made this choice! I appreciated having a dedicated make up and hair artist who did a wonderful job. Elisa took her time with me. Not only did we talk through expectations before the photo shoot, we took time to go through poses during the shoot. We did several outfit changes to get different looks. She made me feel comfortable and confident. This experience was so much fun and I was excited to see the end result. These are the best pictures I've seen of myself and I loved them all! I felt beautiful and I can't wait to post them. Thank you Elisa for making this such a fun experience! read more

Elisa is outstanding, the consummate professional and masterful artist! From the first call, I could sense that she was the right fit. She asked lots of insightful questions to understand what I wanted and then created a vision for how to get there. She advised on wardrobe and took photos in multiple poses and light, striving to create a variety of moods and impressions. She helped bring the most out of me throughout the shoot, continually refining her vision as we went along, knowing exactly what I wanted and needed. Throughout the process, it felt like we were in partnership--that she wanted what was best for me and how to get us there. Plus, she was a lot of fun to work with! I am thrilled with the outcome, excited to use my photos for business! read more

She Canceled on me after I requested she clarifies her refund policy, gave me a very arrogant response as if I asked for something outrageous. Be careful and make sure you don't deposit the full amount unless you are satisfied as a customer. read more

I had a fantastic time, was so comfortable during the whole process, and was absolutely blown away by the final products! Thank you for working with me and providing me with exceptional photos! read more

Elisa is great!!! I really dread having my picture taken - second perhaps only to going to the dentist - but had to do it since my face has dramatically changed now that I've grown a beard. Elisa put me at ease and was able to find the right light to make even my mug look appealing. For the first time in my entire life, I am even considering asking my partner if he wants to make one of those dorky portrait holiday cards this year. If we go for it, we'll definitely call Elisa. :-) read more

Elisa made me feel instantly comfortable and beautiful. The resulting photos were natural and amazing!! She is a lighting genius.

My experience w Elisa Cicinelli Photography has been a personal lift, a reward for a really rugged year. And it was so much fun! I shared my images with my husband. He said "she really captured you". "This conveys intelligence and power - and you're just stunning". "It says 'so yah, efff with me, that'll be fun'". I'm telling all my friends they need to do this for themselves. read more

I worked with Elisa for a professional head shot and the overall experience was great. I updated my new photo to my Linkedin profile and it's a hit! I can definitely see an up-tick in Linkedin communication as of late, and I think it's the new photo. Great investment in your personal brand, I am glad I took the time to get a professional photo done. read more

May I write another one? We had two family shoots in the meantime, and my most precious session so far: a shoot with my sister and my niece visiting from Germany. We all love how we look like the best version of our selves! You never get that on any other picture - thank you, Elisa, for your beatiful art. read more

Elisa Cicinelli is one of a kind photographer. her portraits are out of this world. She has helped a lot of my clients with portraits, photoshoot, graduation/prom etc. Just look at the photos on here, it speaks a 100 words. If you need amazing photos, look no further. read more

We were referred to Elisa to get new headshots + team photos! She was extremely easy to get in touch with and always responded in a timely manner! Elisa was accommodating with our team of four and was very considerate of our time! Calm, happiness, and excitement are just some of the vibe she gives off! She also made you feel comfortable and relaxed! Overall, our team had a great experience and we all loved how our headshots came out! We can't wait to be back as our team expands and will needed updated team photos and/or new headshots! Thank you Elisa!! read more

I wanted to take a moment to show my appreciation for Elisa and her art . She did my make up and took a series or lovely photos that were exactly the kind of head shots that I needed for my work and charity organization that I'm involved with . She took the time to really listen to what I was looking for and totally nailed it ! As I had never done any modeling before, I was quite uneasy about this but she made me feel at home almost immediately . A week later show presented a series of amazing photos beautifully handled and blown up for display . I can't thank Elisa enough for her time and professionalism and I can't wait to do another session with her ! Alexis read more

Elisa is an amazing portrait photographer. I am so glad I found her. She made me so comfortable in her adorable studio above Market Street. And the pictures she shot of me were just wonderful. Every one of them. Elisa guided me through every step with friendly, professional suggestions. She helped me choose the best outfit combinations for different kinds of shots. She even did my makeup. When I I sat before her and she started clicking away, I felt I was my best self. And her photographs really show that. I needed a photo for my website. Done! I needed a casual one for my family and friends. Done! The romantic photo for dating? Gorgeous! I have to look professional for the work I do guiding people to good jobs and Elisa filled the bill. I am proud of what I do. And now I am proud of how I look. read more

One stop shop - ESPECIALLY if you "don't like to be photographed". Elisa shows up with make-up, hair, and has a great way of doing a shoot that doesn't make you uncomfortable. I spent the "full amount" on a total branding shoot and, let me tell you, it might not seem like spending that extra money makes sense but having the flexibility of time, different outfits, different background, etc. makes sense...but, it does. It really does. I took a long time to choose Elisa and I'm really glad I did. read more

Elisa has an amazing eye for photography. My husband and I worked with her to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary. The photos look like we could be on the cover of some fancy magazine! She really made us look like superstars. I highly recommend getting your photos taken with Elisa, whether you need a new headshot, family photos, engagement photos, or just treating yourself to some special pampering - she will make you feel very special. Do it! read more

When looking for a photographer for a wedding, it is important to find someone who you know you don't have to worry about on the day. I interviewed a few people, few different price ranges, looked over their work and finally decided on Elisa because I loved her use of color in her photographs. She has a calm personality, which is very important on a wedding day because you don't want someone adding to the confusion. Elisa was very professional and prompt and started taking pictures immediately. No fancy set up required. The result was great pictures. It's almost surreal to look at the photos and I think it is slightly more enjoyable to look at the pictures after the event because you can not take in everything on the day. She captured good movement and color. Far from those generic posing pictures. Yet, there was also a good mix of the necessary family and friends photos too. There were also some great "artistic" type shots you see in magazines. Bottom line, I would recommend Elisa work. If you look at her work you will get a general feeling and mood of the event, and that's the point. . . That's an artist. . .not just a photographer. read more

In this day of social networking and easy access to information (Facebook, LinkedIn, Google +, Twitter, etc.), I've come to recognize the importance of managing my online reputation and image. I wanted a set of photos that showed my professional side, yet still captured the real me---not just another guy stuffed in a suit. Elisa did this. I'm so pleased with the results. Her photos are beautiful and I feel that she captured who I really am---playful, serious, and creative. I'm proud to share them online. Thanks, Elisa! Fantastic job! read more

Elisa is professional and caring and does her best to bring out the best of you! I enjoyed the makeup and hairstyling session and had fun with different looks to do my very first professional photos! She was very patient and kind and made me feel like a million! Fun experience! read more

We had the pleasure of having Elisa photograph our wedding recently. Her work is truly beautiful. We were very, very pleased with the photos we received from her. She was on time for our event and was able to capture some terrific moments. Here are a couple of reasons I'm not rating this at five stars. A few minutes before the ceremony, she commented to me (the bride) that she was surprised in our choice of venue, as she thought that it had potential but was rundown. Of course, not exactly a confidence booster right before I walk down the aisle. We also had feedback from two different friends that she spent a lot of time with just a few of our guests posing them, asking one to be a model for her, etc. during the wine reception immediately after the ceremony - which might explain why we had so few photos of everyone else at that reception. All in all, I do want to say that Elisa's work was really phenomenal. The only thing I was a little disappointed about was when I heard from other guests that she appeared to be using some of the time for her own portfolio. read more

Elisa's Photographic work is amazing! I have worked with a lot of photographers over the years from New York City to San Francisco and her eye, calming demeanor, and full-service approach make just showing up for the shoot a breeze and stress-free. The work up to the shoot is wonderful, thoughtful and ultimately the finished product is where the proof of the pudding is and as a middle-aged man, who doesn't consider himself photogenic or model material, she makes me look my best, which remains important in my business. If you are looking to start a new business or refresh your brand or image, make sure you hire Elisa to help you create photographic images of yourself, your team and your space that will make you worthy to be hired again and again. Yes, she is that good! read more

Elisa understands that a headshot gives someone an initial impression about who you are and gets you the attention you are looking for. Using her skill and knowledge, my headshot accurately shows what I look like on a great day, captures my zest for life and professionalism, and looks engaging, creative and original. With all of these characteristics, my headshot portrays everything I wanted. And the best part: I didn't have to explain it to Elisa. Trust her, she knows what she is doing! Go for a great, natural looking headshot and a quick turnaround. read more

My fiance and I had a great experience working with Elisa for our engagement photos! I met Elisa at a Bridal Fair in Alameda and I am so happy I did! Her work stood out to me because it was clean, romantic and not overly fussy. In the day and age of overly photoshopped and filtered photos, Elisa's work was a breath of fresh air. As a full figured woman I was also interested in a photographer with experience photographing varying shapes and silhouettes. Elisa listened to my concerns and she delivered with amazing, flattering photos. I've never looked so good :) She took us to the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco and we had the most relaxed and fun afternoon photo shoot. It can be a bit awkward posing in front of a bunch of strangers but her laid back attitude really put us at ease. Elisa's approach is very different from other commercial photographers I've come across. She wasn't a pushy sales person and we never felt rushed. Above all, she is an artist and she takes her time to get to know you, your story, and she magically weaves that story into her photos! We couldn't be happier! read more

My wife and I looked through the usual wedding planning mags, made the rounds and interviewed a bunch of photographers. Unfortunately most wedding photos (even from the pros) look like like they were taken with Uncle Fester's Instamatic. We saw Elisa's flier when we were looking at venues in Santa Cruz. Immediately, we knew we found the photographer for us. Elisa has a great sense of composition and she's really great at portraiture. Both the candid photos of our reception and the more formal shots of the wedding party really captured the mood of the event. The soft focus and vignetting of her subjects creates an intimate, storybook feel to her work. It was the perfect way to remember our wedding. read more

Interested in efficient, professional photographer that will create a unique perspective of your personality with the right products to elevate yourself or your business to a higher level! The end result was beyond amazing, I highly recommend consulting with Elisa Cicinelli Photography. read more

Elisa Cicinelli was excellent and highly professional when shooting both our engagement photos and our wedding day. I found her after sleepless months of researching wedding magazines, online resources, and local bay-area resources. Many of the photographers in the bay area are over priced for what they offer and lack the actual skill required to make your wedding day look like a special and classy event. I didn't want the cheesy, wedding affair photos and she delivered with a tremendous selection of beautiful images after images for us to choose from. You should be prepared to take her advice. Afterall, one hires a photographer for their keen eye and believe me, Elisa has two. Her still pieces are incredible and timeless. The way she captured the intimacy and connection between my husband and me was truly beautiful and I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of recording a special event. She captures the very essence of its specialness. Yes, any exceptional photographers will always be worth the dollar if you find a great one but Elisa is a sure thing. read more

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Elisa!! I have used her services twice now, for both a corporate headshot and also an acting headshot, and I'm so pleased with the results. She was able to direct me in such a natural way and I immediately felt comfortable. I was able to give my input which she took into consideration and I never felt rushed. Go see Elisa-you won't regret it!! read more

I did a complete photoshoot with Elisa for both casual and business photos. Elisa was super fun to work with for the photoshoot. Her studio lent to a number of creative background shots and Elisa's easy going nature made me feel very relaxed. She gives great direction and takes a number of shots, so you have many options to choose from for your final take home pics. If you are in need of cool, hip and professional portrait shots, give Elisa a call! read more

I am not exactly relaxed in front of a still camera, but was in need of headshots. Elisa made it incredible easy to let go and be myself. It felt like I was shooting with a friend.The results were great. I get lots of praise for the shots from casting directors, agents and other industry professionals who look at hundreds of headshots every week. I am looking forward to my next shoot with Elisa! read more

In the film/ commercial business, a great headshot is mandatory. I've worked with a number of photographers and Elisa Cicinelli is definitely the best. Once I posted her work (of me), my bookings increased dramatically. Film, commercials, auditions - my calendar increased 100%! I can't thank her enough and I'm returning for more! She is easy to work with AND has a strong opinion on what 'works'. Total thumbs up! read more

Elisa is a magician. I am so camera phobic that I call the DMV my personal photographer as they are the only people I allow to take my picture. I responded to her post about the "50 over 50" project thinking that, at 60 years old, it would be great to finally have a picture of myself that I like. Not only did I get that (and several more) but Elisa had a way of making me feel safe in front of the camera. That has never happened before. She has a warmth the allowed me to melt and actually have fun with it. The results are amazing and I would do it again in a heartbeat!!! read more

Elisa created a delightful experience so we could collaborate on capturing the right headshot and personal brand look that I was going for. Her ability to work with different materials and natural light is fun, simple, and elegant. I felt at ease during the shoot and afterwards she worked quickly to get me the set of photos to look through - I had a hard time narrowing down to a set since they were all so good! I definitely recommend working with Elisa if you need professional photography. Even if you think you might know what you're doing already (like me... I also learned a lot!) read more

I was lucky to have had my first professional headshot experience with Elisa. She is extremely talented and personable. I was in need of a headshot as I am in search of talent agents and I came across Elisa's website. Her place has great natural lighting and she put me at ease as she guided me on how to pose while mimicking her gradual movements. I really appreciated this as I am a total newbie. I found her turnaround time to be rather quick. I was surprised with the pictures as I browsed through the album. Being that I've never done this before and was unprepared, I thought I was only going to like one or two of the pictures but I liked the majority of the takes :) I narrowed it down to my ultimate favorite picture and then it was sent in for retouching and that was a quick turnaround time as well. I will definitely be back to see Elisa for the actor package!! read more

I completed a photoshoot with my 11 year old daughter. It was the first time that I've done a professional portrait and I'm so happy that I did. Now I have a polished portrait of myself and my daughter marking her transition from elementary to middle school. I was impressed with the way that Elisa works. Elisa helps prep you with suggestions on wardrobe and after you arrive for your shoot she pulls your look together with beautiful hair and mark-up. After the shoot, we met again and I was able to select the photos I liked and each photo included a mat ready for framing. During the shoot, Elisa suggested doing a few of just my daughter which ended up being a really great idea because these became a wonderful gift to my husband on Father's Day. Working with Elisa was really special and I am so happy to have these portraits to remember my daughter at this age and to pass onto her. read more

The picture that I have been using professionally was over 10 years old so it was past time for a new one. Elisa made the whole experience fun and the headshots came out looking beautiful! She did my hair and makeup and made me feel as good as I looked. I read more

I found a gem of a photographer with Elisa. Being a middle aged wife and mother, I wanted to have a lasting image of myself for my family. I wanted to freeze time before the aging took over. I came across Elisa Cicinelli Photography. She was very flexible on scheduling me. I selected her makeup service and she made me look fresh and vibrant. She asked what look I was trying to achieve and kept within those lines while also capturing other aspects of my personality. In the end the photos were a perfect mixture of classic and fun. I would highly recommend Elisa for anyone that wants to freeze time and capture the moment. read more

Elisa took a lot of care with my shoot to prep for makeup and hair. She is wonderfully talented as a makeup artist, hair stylist, and photographer. I am thrilled with her result! I highly recommend working with her if you want a professional look that is also beautiful and natural. PS my Yelp profile is not the photo Elisa took. That one is for my LinkedIn :) read more

Elisa photographed my wedding and did an absolutely fantastic job. My husband and I could not be happier with the photos. The pictures are beautiful and artistic, and perfectly captured everything we loved about our wedding day. Elisa was completely professional yet warm, fun and creative. I agree with the other reviewers that she has a calm, soothing demeanor, which is extremely important on a wedding day. She set my most camera shy friends and family (and myself) at ease! She was never obtrusive. I researched over forty photographers before deciding on Elisa, and I am so so happy we decided to hire her. When I saw my photos I felt, pure and simple, that I got exactly what I wanted. I cannot recommend Elisa enough. read more

Elisa Cicinelli did my head-shot and she was incredible through the whole process. I tend to be a little more demanding, in reference to turnaround time, but Elisa was more than willing to work with me. The photos came out great and all for a very reasonable cost. She'll definitely be my first call for my next project. read more

I met Elisa while searching for a pro to shoot some headshots for LinkedIn. I've had a really difficult time finding accurate professional shots in the past, but Elisa instantly put all previous attempts to shame. It seemed as though every shot she took was better than any I'd ever gotten before. Two separate people who've known me for more than a decade said they were the first shots of me that they've ever seen that look like what they see (I'm not very photogenic sadly). Anyway I'd highly recommend Elisa, and will be doing so to any of my friends that are looking to amp up their online presence. read more

I needed to update a headshot and treated myself to the makeover + headshot photo session. It was worth it! I've received so many compliments on the photo. Elisa is a great photographer who truly understands light, placement and posture. She's not an amateur who has a snazzy camera, but someone how was trained and skilled in the profession. Highly recommended and I look forward to working with her again. read more