Every Person is Soulgenic™: Reflections from Taste of Palm Springs
At the Taste of Palm Springs event, I set up an outdoor portrait studio to photograph strangers and prove what I believe with my whole heart - that every single person is Soulgenic™. What unfolded was a night of connection, presence, and humanity. One by one, people stepped in front of the camera, their masks fell, and their souls came forward. These portraits are proof that when you feel safe enough to be yourself, your true beauty shines through.
Beyond the Smile: Why Honest Expressions Matter in Portraits
You probably grew up like me being told to “smile for the camera.” But the truth is, the most powerful portraits aren’t about forced happiness, they’re about authenticity. In my Los Angeles and Palm Springs portrait studios, I’ve seen how soulful, honest expressions reveal a person’s depth and humanity in a way a smile alone never could.
How Having Your Portrait Taken Relates to Inner Child Healing
When I step behind the camera, I’m not just making images…I’m holding space for the younger parts of us that long to feel safe, seen, and worthy of love. In my Los Angeles portrait studio, photography becomes a way to begin that healing.
What to Expect During Your First Portrait Session with Me
“Wondering what to expect at your first professional portrait session in Los Angeles or Palm Springs? At Aaron Jay Young Studio, every shoot begins with a personal conversation to help you feel comfortable and confident. From wardrobe guidance to natural posing, I create a relaxed environment so you can be yourself. My goal is to capture authentic, beautiful portraits that reflect who you truly are—whether it’s your first time in front of the camera or your fiftieth.”