About Terribly GirlyTM Photography "From Kitsch to Classic!"
Terribly Girly is owned and operated by South Florida’s premiere pinup photographer, Janette Valentine. Terribly Girly photography is a professional photography studio based in Miami, Florida, specializing in pin-up & retro photo shoots, boudoir photography, burlesque photography, vintage & glamour photo shoots, couples photography, fun and sexy themed shoot events and pin-up parties!
Terribly Girly’s fun and colorful pinup photography studio is one of a kind: kitschy, cute, sexy, highly decorative and ideal for women who enjoy an intimate atmosphere and setting for their photos. Terribly Girly photo studio is located in Midtown Miami, Florida, situated minutes away from the South Beach, Miami Design District, Wynwood Art District, Downtown Miami, and easily accessible by I-95 and the 836.
While Janette began her pin up photography career in early 2005, her first specialist pin up studio opened October 2007 in Hollywood, Florida. Since then, Janette and the Terribly Girly crew have photographed hundreds of amazing, lovely ladies from all walks of life, both local and from abroad, who’ve traveled to spend a day with Terribly Girly’s exclusive and distinctive pin up photography services.
Terribly Girly Photography specializes in:
• Pinup photography
• Retro boudoir photography
• Glamour photo shoots
• Pinup and glamour portraits
• Couples portraits
• Bridal Boudoir
• Bridal Parties
• Pinup hair & make-up workshops
• Pinup Parties
• Commercial/Advertising photography
• Fashion/Editorial photography
• Band/Musician photography
The Notorious Janette Valentine
Janette Valentine is South Florida’s premiere pinup photographer. Janette’s photographic style is truly unique, with an eye for composition and a colorfully bold, distinctive style. Because she has worked with a wide variety of people, Janette is able to capture her client’s personality and individual beauty in a unique way that allows women to look sexy, flirty and classy. At Terribly Girly, Janette remains involved with her team (from booking, through hair & makeup styling, set design and all the way to your final finished package) to make sure her standards are met and all her clients walk away radiating and fulfilled.
Janette’s photographic experience has also extended into other realms – from advertising campaigns (Bonet Trends, Blue Velvet Vintage), Commercial photography (Hard Rock Hotel 2008 Calendar, Campeones Marina 2010 Calendar), Product photography (Hell’s Belles Finishing School for Girls, Lucky Mule Tees, Cameo Intimates, Caroline Mitchell Millinery Hats, Aurajins), Editorial and Magazine features and interviews (Sunpost, New Times Broward & Phoenix Covers), to photographing musicians & bands (Gen of the Genitorturers, Torche). While Janette’s main focus is pinup and retro photography, she is successfully branching out into other aspects of the business - taking her unique, colorful visions and applying them in new scenarios for amazing results.
Janette was born in Miami, Florida, to a Cuban family with Irish roots. Raised on sunshine and café con leche, her interest in fashion photography lead her to her niche in pin-up photography where she has been working steadily since 2005 transforming everyday gals into pinup queens!
When not in the photo studio, Janette is playing bass and makin’ noise in local hard rock band, Shroud Eater. She’s an all around animal lover, supports a number of animal and human right organizations, sorta-secret karaoke fiend, and die-hard devotee of all things rock n’ roll.
The Behind the Scenes Queens
RIVIERA "DO-GAL" DECORDOVA (Hairstylist)
Riviera DeCordova is a multifaceted hair artist, with many accolades to her name. In the past 17 years she has worked for Yellow Strawberry, the Broward Opera House, Glamour Shots, and most recently with Regis hair salon as the top up-do stylist for the past 10 years. Her work has been published in City Link Magazine, Varla Magazine, Car Kulture Delux, Antikulture Magazine, Inspire and The Bride , and in Regis magazine as the only South Florida hair stylist for making unforgettable up-dos in the December 2001/January 2002 issues.
Her work has also been seen on Channel 7 News Style Watch, Deco Drive and Univision’s Despierta America. Since becoming self-employed, Riviera has opened her own salon and has poured her heart into her bridal company, Artistic Impressions By Riviera. Nevertheless, it is the Golden Era of Hollywood that remains Riviera’s biggest inspiration. She will bring out the inner pin up girl in us all in 20 minutes or less. From the decadent finger waves of the 1920s to the bedroom curls of the 1950s, Riviera will effortlesly turn back the hands of time to an era when women were glamourpusses & romance was queen.
VIRGINIA LE FAY (Make-Up Artist)
Virginia has been a makeup artist all her life, bringing out the beauty within of the people she found inspiring. Whether in a cold basement of a New Jersey two-family house with her Barbie dolls as a child, or in her friends' most celebrated moments in adulthood, Virginia has always expressed herself in color. She derives much of her aesthetic from her love, respect, and exposure to opera, theater, and cinema throughout her youth. By combining these forms of art and transforming 'moments' in them with her makeup tools, she has finally found her creative expression.
Virginia is fully self-trained and based out of Miami, FL. She has nine years of makeup experience in print, television, HD video, web, theater, and film. Her background includes seven years as a freelance makeup artist, a Bachelor of Science in Motion Picture Production and Art Photography from the University of Miami, plus six years as a top performer and Senior Product Specialist for M.A.C.
JENNIFER "DEE-ZEL" BASING (Hair and Make-Up Artist)
I've worked with many amazing musical Artists and performers and designers such as Alicia Keyes, Fergie and the Black-eyed Peas, Lee Ann Womack, Steven Tyler and Aerosmith, Cirque du Soleil performers; and designers such as Jason Wu, Jeremy Scott, Diesel, Douglas Hannant, Heatherette, Apple Bottom, Baby Phat, Betsy Johnson, Vivienne Westwood, Oscar de la Renta and participated in New York Fashion week.
On the Art of Makeup- Makeup is an extension of one's creativity and passion for what they do. I believe that makeup is just the subtle harmony and enhancement of one's natural beauty...whether it be makeup styles from the vintage classics or "red carpet" glamour, there are no rules or boundaries, just endless possibilities.
MARILYN "MISS KITTY" SAN GERMAN (Hair and Make-Up Artist)
Hey all! I'm Marilyn, a full time Hair Stylist & Make-up artist based in South Florida. I've been in and around the fashion and beauty biz since I was a child and threw myself into it completely about 9 years ago. I've had the good fortune of working & mentoring with incredible international artists & innovators from the start. Even working Fashion Week (Hair Team) early in my career.
As a perfectionist, I enjoy and take great pride in my work. I will never walk away from a project until I can stand back satisfied and smile with appreciation. I’ve been happily involved with Janette Valentine and her “Terribly Girly” crew for quite some time…her and I actually met many years ago! I’ve been able to work behind the scenes glamming up pin-up girlies and have also been in front of the camera, fulfilling my own desire to be “pinned up”!
On any given day I can be found perfecting a hair-do from the golden age to applying a perfectly plump cupid’s bow pout! When working on pin-up shoots I’m able to draw inspiration from old Hollywood and period movies. Art, music and thoughts about romantic lands far, far away inspire me on a day-to-day basis.
ANGEL JAGGER (Hair and Make-Up Artist)
A Texas fashion designer who wanted to do it all, moved to Los Angeles in 2003 to become Hollywood-trained in makeup and hair. Angel Jagger is now the go-to girl for pin-up hair and makeup. She has always admired the classic styles of the1930s thru 1960s. She has found her niche within the makeup industry and became the artist of choice for retro-styled magazine spreads and portraits. For Angel, the best part about being a makeup artist is the reaction of her clients.
The big smile at the end is her version of job satisfaction. As glamorous as it is, being a makeup artist is also hard work. She says one of the things that has made her successful is having the right attitude. "Being positive has taken me further than anything else."
JESSICA COURY (Hair and Make-Up Artist)
Jessica Coury has been doing makeup professionally for three years now. She is a freelance artist that works in all genres of makeup from beauty, fashion, runway, airbrush, film, special fx and is known best for her special fx and pinup work! Jessica has a unique style and look and has had a passion for makeup her entire life.
Jessica was born and raised in New York and early as she could pickup a pencil she had a love to draw. This little lady craved everything different and weird and to this day still does. She loved the art and culture of the big city! Jessica moved to sunny Florida and pursued a career in makeup and special fx. She went to school in Orlando at Joe Blasco Makeup center and met many artists that inspired her and taught great techniques.
After coming home Jessica started working fulltime for M.A.C cosmetics where she met many amazing artist and photographers. She also freelanced for several movies and did special fx makeup. Jessica decided after a year of working with M.A.C to get her freelance career rolling. Jessica met Janette Valentine from Terribly Girly Photography and an instant friendship was formed! Their love for pinup, vintage, and creating beautiful images made them connect instantly and she is now part of the Terribly Girly Crew. She does retro hair and makeup and is a freelance makeup artist for cosmetic lines M.A.C, Smashbox and herself.
It has been a long road for this young makeup artist but she knows the best is yet ahead! She loves the feeling of creating things and making women feel beautiful! Jessica continues to aspire to be a well rounded makeup artist and master of her craft. Jessica looks forward to working with more amazing photographers, film makers, artists, and the Terribly Girly Ladies! "Follow The Yellow Brick Road!"
JENNIFER McGRATH (Bookings & Then Some!)
Back in 2005 I was in front of the camera while Janette Valentine was taking pictures of me in a 1957 Ford Thunderbird. Over the years a true friendship bonded. In 2008 Janette asked me to join her crew with true excitement I jumped aboard.
Here in Atlanta a/k/a Atlanta Headquarters, I am booking gals for their big day with Terribly Girly. If you have questions send it my way, I'll be happy to answer them and help you plan your shoot. When Janette is shooting in Atlanta, you'll find me not only booking these gals, but helping with lighting, making quick runs for more hairspray and even fix'n your garter!
I enjoy what I do for Janette and love being a part of the team!
HEATHER "INGA" MARTIN-OWENS (Photo Assistant)
Hello there, I’m Heather, everyone likes to call me Heather-Inga when I’m assisting Janette and her bad-ass team of women who come together with explosive energy to transform everyday girls and models in to glamorous Pin-Up queens! It has been my pleasure to work with Miss Valentine these past 2 years, not only because she has become one of my best friends, but I’ve learned a lot of what I know about the pin-up world and professional photography from her.
During shoots you’ll find me doing everything from making sure the gals are well hydrated, caffeinated, comfortable and LAUGHING to fixing wardrobe, even tying up models for Bettie Page inspired shoots, finding and making props, helping Miss Valentine carry and set up heavy equipment, lighting, and set design. If you’ve got a great idea for an elaborate set Miss V and I will discuss it with you and I’ll make it come to life! I love every minute of my job being Janette Valentine’s right hand assistant and the team of girls that all work together to keep the timeless beauty of vintage pin-up alive through making everyday women and models feel great about themselves while Miss V captures it on camera.
When I’m not assisting shoots I’m busy in school taking various photography & art classes at Miami Dade College to develop and sharpen the artistic skills I’ve possessed since I was a rotten little child ;). I love to draw, take pictures, paint, sculpt, work with metal, and my ultimate dream is to become a tattoo artist.
AURORA NATRIX (Wardrobe Stylist)
As early as I can remember I’ve always had a love for playing dress up and drawing outfits. I can recall staging no-budget theatrical productions in my parents living room where costumes always took center stage and my family humoured me as the audience. By the age of seven I had a notebook filled with precocious drawings for a future fashionista. Along the way I became misguided in my footing but in the last six years I’ve slowly found my way back to my true calling: Fashion.
I was born and raised in the UK and soon transplanted over to Miami, Florida where I have spent my last years off and on. I went to school to study music business all the while working in retail where I was paid to dress people up for a living. You see, music and fashion have always wrestled for the number one spot in my heart. In the evenings I was studying at school for my degree, once home I’d become a slave to my sewing machine trying to create new costumes. It didn’t take too long to realize where my true aspirations were. I owe burlesque for my crash course education in sewing. Once I discovered the boisterous exuberance that burlesque is I knew it was something I had to be a part of. The problem was I had nothing to wear! I have expensive taste, but why should I buy something if I could figure out how to make it? So that’s exactly what I did.
Before signing on to be the wardrobe stylist for Terribly Girly by Janette Valentine I had the opportunity to work with the leading lady in quite a different way. I modeled for her several times and would always come over with a suitcase of goodies from my shows to shoot in. Corsets, stockings, and shoes, oh my! Janette soon agreed to a trade of sorts. She’d photograph my costumes if I would make pieces for her shoots. With my love of fashion, passion for anything vintage, and personal experience as a pin-up model, becoming a wardrobe stylist for her was a natural next step. It was truly a perfect fit! When not assisting behind the camera or posing in front of it, I can be seen performing at South Florida’s hottest venues with Shameless Burlesque, Miami’s one and only burlesque troupe.
The Studio
Terribly Girly photo studio (or TGHQ as we like to call it!) is a unique studio located in Midtown Miami, Florida. It is situated in a building that houses local artists, musicians, dj’s, and professionals. Her studio is an eclectic mix of retro, mod and quirky Floridian findings. TGHQ offers the usual photographic studio lighting, as well as a range of vintage and quirky furniture and props. Every room you’re in is unique, from hair and makeup to wardrobe, our two shooting rooms and even our kitchen or lounge and bar area – the studio is decorated in a way that makes every inch a prime location for a unique photograph.
Our studio in Midtown Miami means you’re minutes away from major highways, South Beach, the Wynwood Art District, Miami Design District, and Downtown Miami. For ladies that travel to Terribly Girly, there are a variety of hotels that are minutes away from the studio, as well as local hotspots for dining and a fun night out!
Press
Recognitions
Miami Sunpost Power Women 2008
MetroMix Best Photographer 2008
Television & Video click to view
Galavision "Accesso Maximo" August 2009
Telemundo 2009
Miami.com 2009
The Miami Herald (Tropical Life) 2009
America TeVe Canal 41 2009
Deco Drive 2007
WSVN's Style Watch 2007
Univision’s Despierta America 2007
Interviews & Features click to view
The Artery Magazine 2009
Miami.com 2009
WeMerge Magazine 2008
City Link Magazine 2006
Daily Candy
Janette Valentine’s photography has appeared in:
Afends Clothing, Bizarre Magazine, Deadbeat Magazine, City Link, The New Times, Prick Magazine, Varla Magazine, Miami Herald, Miami Sunpost, WeMerge Magazine, Car Kulture Delux, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino 2008 Calendar, Skyscraper Magazine, Hell’s Belles Finishing School For Girls product catalog, and Daily Candy.