Street Portrait : The Mayor of Chinatown

I photographed John Chin, the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation, for the July 2024 issue of Philadelphia Magazine. It was a fun and inspiring shoot on a picture perfect Spring afternoon. John was friendly and easy from the jump!

I met him at the PCDC Offices at the corner of 10th & Vine Sts. While we took a walk down 10th into the heart of the neighborhood, stopping for portraits along the way, an interesting thing happened. Throughout our time together passersby walked right up and started conversations with John! Seriously, every ten steps a new person would be in the mix. They all seemed like close friends - talking about how college is going, what’s new at the club, giving each other style tips, etc. The good community vibes struck a chord with me so I captured some of the interactions and then included the shots with the gallery of selects provided to Philly Mag. Super happy when they decided to run some of them in the feature! In subsequent messaging John wrote, “I am elated to see the street photos of me and community folks in the magazine. It means a lot to me - these people. It's why I do what I do.”

There’s a lot going on in and around Chinatown these days… check out Victor Fiorillo’s interview with John in the July 2024 issue of Philadelphia Magazine - available now!

Towards the end of the shoot John was watching me closely as I moved from adjusting the direction of the softbox on the lightstand to raising the level of my tripod, doing a test shot, checking for critical focus on the laptop, then back to steady shooting. He paid me the best compliment ever,

“You move with such purpose and intent - like a Kung Fu master!”

Look for this testimonial to be plastered in extra large type all over my next promo, lol.

Multiverse Philly!

A couple of years back there were rumblings that a new comic book shop was coming to NW Philly - Chestnut Hill to be precise. Totally in my orbit - it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Studio. I should mention that I’m a lifelong fan of comics, graphic novels, video games, toys, movies, etc. - I mean, c’mon, who isn’t? There’s too many artists and writers for me to reference as inspirational, but I can say that I consider Frank Miller, along with cinematographer Robbie Mueller, to be my Dark Overlords. Back on topic - new comic shop? My nerd excitement meter started flashing immediately!

Multiverse opened last Fall, and we had the pleasure of photographing the space and it’s owners, Sara and Gralin, before it’s Grand Opening!

Multiverse owners Sara Zia Ebrahim-Hughes and Gralin Hughes - photographed in the Kielinski Photographers studio.

It’s a great shop… since the shoot I’ve stopped in for reading material, gifts, and just to say hello.

I love making work for small business owners. They’re passionate about their endeavors and eager to get images that fulfill their promo and marketing needs. Sign me up!

Here’s an article with more detailed info about the shop.

Fun times at the City Social on the Pier

The Green Program hosted a free sustainable summer kick-off event for young professionals across the greater Philadelphia region. The Cherry Street pier was a prime location for folks to hang out with their coworkers and friends. Along with snagging a great FREE headshot, the event proved to be a great opportunity to network, meet organizations and companies that are passionate about sustainability and the social impact space.

Melissa Lee, founder and CEO of The Green Program, didn’t have to twist our arm to jump at the chance to volunteer for this fun opportunity. I always wondered what it would be like to have an evening of marathon headshots. haha!

Kyle and I packed up the guinea pig aka (the van) and set up shop with the beautiful Ben Franklin Bridge and Race St pier as our background.

We kept the line moving and grooving, met so many excited young professionals ( 77 to be exact) and smiled more than I ever have in a 2 hour time frame! Thank you again Melissa and to all the great folks who we were grateful to meet and photograph.

To the headshot recipients - keep an eye out for an email with your new headshot by the end of next week!

NEW POWER Photography for Philly Mag

Above is a representation of the hard work of so many people and we are incredibly grateful to be a part of it! The publisher, editor, art director, writers, photo editors, designers and the 38 phenomenal subjects, thank you! We jokingly called it the ‘beast’ since it’s the largest project the two of us have worked on together so far.

We photographed 37 of the 38 “movers and shakers” above (Tierra Whack supplied her shots - next time, Tierra!). Most everyone else came by our studio in Germantown for their individual sessions. Carmela Hernandez is living in sanctuary at a church so we gladly went to her. For Phillies GM Matt Klentak, we set up in the media room down in the belly of Citizens Bank Park. The team was headed south for spring training the following day and he only had 10-15 minutes to spare… it was a good kind of pressure, we swear!

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Capturing the environmental shots was fun, too - state rep Malcolm Kenyatta outside of his offices on N. Broad St., Carmen Maria Machado inside the Joseph Fox Bookshop, and 76ers chef Jae Hee Cho at the team Training Complex & Corporate Offices in Camden.

Portrait of Raquel Salas Rivera, Philadelphia's 2019 Poet Laureate for Philadelphia Magazine's New Power feature.

Portrait of Matt Klentak, General Manager of the Philadelphia Phillies baseball team for Philadelphia Magazine April 2019

Studio portrait of Michelle Lee, founder of The Green Program. Shot for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.

Studio portrait of Jean Friedman Rudovsky and Cassie Haynes, Executive Director of Resolve Philly and Editor of Broke in Philly. Shot for the 2019 April issue of Philadelphia Magazine. Photos by Linette Kielinski

Studio Portrait of Lee Whack, Spokesperson for the Philadelphia Public School system, for Philadelphia Magazine's April 2019 issue.

Portrait of Christine Knapp, Director of City of Philadelphia's Office of Sustainability, for Philadelphia Magazine feature on New Power in Philly.

Studio Portrait of Lauren Footman, Gun Prevention Activist, for Philadelphia Magazine's April 2019 issue.

Studio portrait of Lara Witt writer and editor of Wear Your Voice, for Philadelphia Magazine's April 2019 issue.

Portrait session with Go Puff founders Yakir Gola and Rafael Ilisayev for Philadelphia Magazine's New Power in Philly feature April 2019

Studio Portrait of Lindsay Scannapieco, urbanist / developer in Philadelphia. Shot for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.

Studio portrait session with Kate Banford and Aaron Nevins owners of Good Good Comedy Theater in Philadelphia, shot for Philadelphia Magazine's New Power feature

Portrait of Haniyyah Sharpe, communications specialist in Philadelphia, owner of On Point Communications, shot for Philadephia Magazine's New Power feature for April 2019 issue.

Studio portrait shoot with Anthony Andiario, chef and restaruant owner. Shot for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine. Photo by Kyle Kielinski

Studio portrait session with Interior Designer Kate Rohrer for Philadelphia Magazine's New Power feature for the April 2019 issue.

Studio portrait session with Kiera Smalls, Executive Director of Philly Startup Leaders & City Fit Girls in Philadelphia, for Philadelphia Magazine's April Issue.

Studio portrait of Michelle Angela Ortiz, mural artist and activist. Shot for April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.

Studio portrait of Loveis Wise, illustrator, painter, artist in Philadelphia. Shot for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.

Studio Portrait of Marcel Pratt, Philadelphia City Solicitor. Shot for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.

Studio portrait of music producers and beat makers Working On Dying. Shot for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine, by Linette Kielinski

Studio portrait of Bob Moore, Serial Tech Entrepeneur, shot for Philadelphia Magazine's April 2019 issue.

Studio Portrait with Christian Lovehall a transgender rights activist and rapper. Shot for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.

Studio Portrait of Michelle Evita Saraswati, for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.

Portrait of Brianna Wronko, CEO and founder of Group K Diagnostics for Philadelphia Magazine New Power Feature

Studio portrait of Anea Moore, Rhodes Scholar. Shot for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.

Studio portrait of Omar Woodard for the April 2019 issue of Philadelphia Magazine. Photo by Kyle Kielinski

Meeting everyone and getting to know them a bit was really inspiring! So much work, so much personality, so much culture, and so much passion is represented by and through these people - we absolutely loved working on this project.

Thanks to everyone at Philly Mag for the great concept and opportunity to make pictures of these folks!

Check out the magazine for everyone’s stories - it’s the issue with Meek Mill on the cover! https://www.phillymag.com/new-philly-power/

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Welcome Baby Maggie!

Baby Maggie has chosen two pretty incredible people for parents. Erin and I know each other through our Crossfit box in Manayunk. I've photographed her in a sports bra and shorts jumping up to a 36 inch wooden box (multiple times), and I've photographed her on one of her most important days in a beautiful bridal gown with family and friends. 

I am honored to have been invited to photograph Erin and Rob as a new parents to their sweet baby girl Maggie. 

I wouldn't say newborn photography is my niche, but I've had two newborns of my own and have many many photographs of them! We kept the room super warm and toasty (I was sweating), I knitted baby Maggie a precious little Aki bonnet designed by Alison McCarney, because everyone NEEDS a photograph of their baby in a bonnet, ha ha!

Rob ran in this year's Boston Marathon, Erin went to cheer him on while she was just a few weeks from her estimated due date. Rob loves to run and most likely can't wait to put their jogging stroller to use. 

Erin is a Phillies fan and Rob is a cough cough..Yankees and Giants fan. Yes, it was hard for me to type that. Maggie was only photographed with the Phillies Jersey. I was staying out of that conversation. haha!

Rob wanted a photo to remember how small her feet were, and Erin loved combing her hair. We had Maggie put on a great onsie with a photo of her Aunt Patti(e) sleeping rocking some amazing eighties hair! Rock on Aunt Patti(e)!

Welcome to parenthood Erin and Rob life is about to get really interesting! Thank you again! 

-Linette 

The Choice is Yours class of 2018

For the past 3 years I've had the honor to be the event photographer for The Choice is Yours graduation. It is held in the beautiful Mayor's Reception room at City Hall in Philadelphia. 

'The Choice is Yours (TCY) is an innovative diversion program for first-time, nonviolent felony drug offenders facing one to two year prison sentences.  Upon successful completion, the program offers graduates the opportunity to have their criminal records expunged, removing the stigma of a criminal record.' - JEVS Human Services

TCY Graduate, Kasim Shaw holds his baby daughter while being photographed by David Swanson for the Daily News, which had a nice piece about Kasim and the program. 

The annual proud graduate group photo with Alberta Lloyd of JEVS Human Services, who played a major role in helping them graduate. 

Many emotions filled the mayor's reception room throughout the afternoon. Pride, excitement, relief, any thing you could imagine from these graduates and their families on this incredible day.

Alberta Lloyd, with JEVS Human Services works with the participants throughout the program and every year she gives the best commencement speeches to the graduates. They are honest, real and from the heart. I wouldn't doubt that she stays in touch with all the grads from the program. 

Porshia White was the class valedictorian and spoke of hard work, and no excuses. She completed the program at 29, with 3 children and one on the way. Her husband pictured below was so proud and full of excitement throughout the ceremony. 

Salutaturian Shartelle Martinez, speaks before her peers, friends and family. There was an article written on her and another graduate in Al Dia. 

Mother and graduate, Nicole Sanchez Ortiz receives her diploma from Alberta Lloyd and follows with handshakes with members of the DA's office. 

Graduate Alan Taylor holds his daughter while recieving his diploma. 

Congratulations to all the graduates and to all those involved that helped get them where they are. They have inspired and continue to inspire and be role-models to those who are fortunate to know them. 

Fitness with Qui for Unbroken Designs

Way back in October I had the pleasure of photographing Qui Burgess for Unbroken Designs  ( a local and woman owned business). Using the gorgeous natural light in our Germantown studio gave allowed us to create a bright and light series in a shorter amount of time than if it was lit in studio. Qui was amazing to work with and seemed to enjoy the little workout she was getting in. She is also an incredible personal trainer so it's par for the course right? 

I love getting to know the people I photograph during the actual shoot. I couldn't remember all the details of our conversation from that day so I emailed Qui a few questions and she was happy to answer! Creating a fun Q & A with the great folks I photograph will hopefully provide a more personal experience for you. Scroll down for my very first interview with Qui2Health!

Qui Burgess interviewed by Linette Kielinski January 25, 2018

What do you love about health and fitness? 

---What I love about health and fitness is it’s actually doing something amazing for ME! To be able to take care of my body physically and mentally is my best investment! And to help others on their journey it’s like my # 1 way of giving back!

 

I love the Equality t-shirt you wore during our shoot. What are your thoughts on equality? Are they specific to women and/or women of color? 

---If I could wear that Nike Equality shirt everyday I would. Equality to ME is not viewing anyone (race, shape, male, female) different. Won’t get political or religious BUT I will talk in terms of fitness(staying in my lane) anyone could lift 300lbs with proper training 😉!

 

I wish I had taken a photo of you and your mom, Renee! I loved that she was taking video and helping you with your social media content. Does she do that a lot? Please bring her next time we have a shoot so I can get a pic of the two of you! 

---Ha! My mom, well I’m normally in the gym by myself, here lately it’s been with my fiancé but at our particular shoot it was super random to bring her BUT so needed! She was free that morning so I asked her to tag along. She captured a lot of great BTS pics and vids!
 

You mentioned that you train some celebrities. Can you name a few? ;)

---Yea, I’ve trained a few celebs. Ugh, name dropping 🤭 lol.... LaLa Anthony, Bernice Burgos, Tara Wallace, Rah Ali, Nya Lee, AlQuadin Muhammad, Lian Amado, Alexis Walker, and Darhyl Camper Jr..
 

If your life depended on you doing 1000 reps of an exercise movement, what would you choose? 

---Listen, if my life depended on me to perform 1000 reps of a specific exercise it would definitely be squats! Please bodyweight, thanks! Lol

Thank you so much Qui for your time I am grateful to have had the opportunity to meet you and Renee. Cheers to many more years of inspiring men and women on their fitness journey! 

And Congratulations on your wedding! Sorry folks she's now married! ;) 

-With Gratitude, Linette

Weavers Way Co-op Shoot

“Weavers Way is a member-owned cooperative grocery with locations in Northwest Philadelphia and Ambler. We offer a friendly shopping environment and reasonably priced, high-quality products that are local, sustainable, organic, fairly traded and healthful.”

I plucked the above quote off of the Weavers Way website - it’s a pretty accurate description.  We’ve been Co-op members for years now and frequent the Mount Airy and Chestnut Hill stores for groceries, a quick lunch (delicious soups, hot foods, prepared salads, etc.), and even chicken feed for our backyard flock!  Linette has had a longstanding relationship with the brass over there.  She’s worked off many a member required work hour photographing Co-op products and events - like the Grand Opening of their new location!

We were excited, then, when contacted by Strada, the firm responsible for designing the new space.  They needed exterior and interior shots of the building.  I find it really satisfying working on projects that I have a real personal connection to.  Believe me, aside from our Weavers Way store/community involvement, food and I have a long and storied love affair.

Take a look here at some of the images we captured that day.  Strada did a fantastic job transforming the former Bottom Dollar store into the latest and greatest Weavers Way market!

30 Minutes in the Snow...Go!

We had a small snow squall of a few inches this past Saturday in Philadelphia. I love walking around the neighborhood especially during a snowstorm when everything is peaceful and quiet. It was the perfect chance to try my new 'photo' gloves Kyle had given me for Christmas. I had 30 minutes to enjoy a solo venture and make some images before having to head downtown.

Quick snap of Kyle cleaning off the sidewalk ;)

I made it up the street to the Roxborough H.S. tennis courts, where our boys learned to ride their bikes a few years ago. 

Gorgas park had a few early morning sledders.

The view from a hill at Gorgas park looking east towards Hermitage Street.

A Father and daughter leaving the park with the perfect bright pink sled. 

The boys and I are hoping for some serious snowfall this winter. We've got 2 more months, surely we'll see more than 3 inches?

Mummers or Couch?

On a typical New Year’s Day we pack up the kids and go to the Mummers Day Parade.  It’s pretty cold out right now (and we’re still thawing out from the Eagles vs Cowboys game yesterday) so this NYD is currently being spent on the couch writing this post with a hot cup of coffee by my side.  This clown thinks I'm being a wuss, and he's right!

In honor of our sequined String Band members, here are a few images of Mummers that we captured last February when they came to Main Street Manayunk to celebrate Mardi Gras. 

We’d just received some new, highly portable strobe lights and gave them a quick test run during the festivities.  I'm still loving the way they turned out. 

Here's a classic rendition of Dem Golden Slippers to really put you in a strutting mood.  Happy New Year!

How it all began

Hello and thank you for popping in on our Kielinski Photographers Blog! We hope you enjoy our posts and comment when you can.

Intros can get lengthy. Luckily for you, we don't go on and on about ourselves - but we do love hearing stories and creating images that help illustrate them. So we'll try to make this first blog post short and sweet.

We met while majoring in photography at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. Dated a few years after graduating, got married, started a family, purchased a home and rescued a few dogs. We live in the Roxborough neighborhood of Philadelphia.

Let's get into it a bit more...

Kyle had worked for over 20 years as an in-house editorial photographer for a medical trade magazine publisher. I worked as a photojournalist for Montgomery Newspapers.

We married in 2006 and had our first child in 2007. Still working as a staff photographer, Kyle 'brought home (most) of the bacon' and I pursued the occasional wedding and family documentary work while being staying home with our baby boy. In 2010 our little family grew with another baby boy (born in our Philly home)! In addition to our two boys Carver and Ronin, we also have Nash (short for National), and Prancer.

This year we joined forces in the photography realm merging Kyle's studio and on-location lighting prowess with my faster-paced documentary style. We've had amazing clients and incredible subjects in 2017, from architecture to sports! Looking forward to the years ahead and all the stories to share.

* We love meeting for coffee and/or dog park playdates if you would like to hear more about us!