Business Details
Your Premier Portrait Experience in Santa Cruz
Jana Marcus Photography has been redefining portrait artistry for over 30 years through a unique blend of technical mastery and emotional connection. Founded by award-winning photographer Jana Marcus, our studio specializes in creating transformative visual experiences that celebrate individuality and personal empowerment. With roots in documentary photography and fashion, we bring a distinctive perspective to contemporary portraiture, headshots, and theatrical imagery. Our process combines professional camera-ready makeup, curated wardrobe consultations, and guided photo sessions to capture authentic expressions of beauty and strength.Recognized by industry peers through accolades like the UC Berkeley International Photojournalism Award, we maintain rigorous standards of excellence through our association with The Portrait Masters. Every session reflects our commitment to producing magazine-quality images that help clients rediscover their self-worth and create lasting legacies. Our California Bay Area studio offers exclusive Italian-crafted presentation options, including archival folio boxes and gallery wall art, ensuring your portraits become cherished heirlooms.
Services
Portrait Sessions
Headshots
Personal Branding
Theatrical Stills
Photo Products
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of award-winning photography expertise
- Our sessions include professional camera-ready makeup services
- Customized wardrobe consultations for perfect visual storytelling
- Recognized by UC Berkeley Center for Photography and Photo District News
- Exclusive Italian-crafted archival presentation products
Associations and certifications
- Accredited Associate Photographer of Sue Bryce & The Portrait Masters 2025
What people say
Beautiful princess
Badass beautiful bitch
Great look
Joyful tears
Professional level opportunities
Services
Portrait Sessions
Customized luxury portrait sessions include professional makeup, wardrobe styling, and guided photography. Clients receive personalized attention to create magazine-quality images that capture their unique essence. Sessions feature multiple outfit changes and professional retouching for timeless results.
Headshots
Industry-leading headshot photography for actors, professionals, and public figures. Combines theatrical elements with commercial requirements to create compelling images that showcase personality and professionalism. Includes styling consultation and post-production enhancements.
Theatrical Stills
Specialized theatrical stills capture dramatic performances with cinematic quality. Documents stage productions and acting range for portfolios and promotional materials. Utilizes lighting techniques that translate stage presence into striking two-dimensional images.
Photo Products
Exclusive Italian-crafted presentation options including archival folio boxes, gallery wall art, and luxury albums. Products designed to preserve and display portraits as heirloom-quality art pieces. Features customizable display solutions for both digital and printed formats.
Personal Branding
Comprehensive personal branding sessions that create cohesive visual identities. Integrates professional photography with strategic image development for entrepreneurs and public figures. Focuses on authentic self-expression through curated visual storytelling.
People
Jana Marcus
Photographer & Owner
Award-winning photographer with 30+ years experience, UC Berkeley photojournalism award recipient, and accredited associate of The Portrait Masters. Specializes in empowering portraiture and theatrical imagery.
Questions
What types of photography sessions do you offer?
We specialize in luxury portrait sessions, theatrical stills, headshots, and personal branding photography with customized styling and professional production.
How long has Jana Marcus been in business?
Jana has been creating award-winning photography for over 30 years, with formal accreditation from The Portrait Masters since 2025.
What makes your portrait experience unique?
Our sessions include professional makeup, wardrobe consultation, and guided photography to create magazine-quality images that empower clients through visual storytelling.
Do you offer physical photo products?
Yes, we provide exclusive Italian-crafted presentation options including archival folio boxes, gallery wall art, and luxury albums for your portraits.
How do I book a session?
Contact us via email or phone to schedule your consultation. We'll discuss your vision and create a customized plan for your portrait experience.
Videos
Reviews (1)
Jane Sinclair
Sep 03, 2019
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Jana is absolutely fabulous. I am camera shy. She made me feel very comfortable and I could not be more pleased with the results and in addition, have a new friend! Thanks Jana for putting a smile on my face!
