West Coast portrait photographer Ronna Schary is among the fortunate few who can walk to work.  Her studio-gallery in Westwood 90064 reflects her passion for portraiture.

Ronna continues the tradition of her mentor, Master Craftsman Photographer Merrett Smith, of serving while creating. His studio, Portraits by Merrett in Century City, is where Ronna apprenticed for 15 years.  Smith's credits range from neighbors to official presidential portraits, and for several years in semi-retirement he used Ronna's studio for special engagements.

At a time when many turned to computerized enhancement, Ronna maintained an organic, hands-on quality to her work. She freezes time and impressions with her manually-altered Polaroid images, an art form she has taught professional colleagues in four countries. This artistic diversion produces images that are at once soothing and provocative.

A recent past president of Professional Photographers of Los Angeles County, Ronna Schary served for an additional year on its Board of Directors as Parliamentarian and continuing professional education liaison.  For several years Ronna has served as hospitality chair and professional liaison for Professional Photographers of California at its annual convention in Pasadena.  Her daughter is photographer and independent producer Rachel Newlander.

Ms. Schary's work appears in private and corporate collections. Although her work is actively promoted by word of mouth, she expends no funds for advertising or media placements. Rather, she promotes by selective support of worthwhile organizations -- emphasizing arts education and medical research projects, in particular for children.

Thanks to the generous support of United Airlines, portrait sessions with Ronna have been offered at silent auction on both coasts. Her work was part of a featured segment on A Baby Story, Baby Forbes episode, on The Learning Channel.

In 2001, Ronna received the Year 2000 Professional Photographers of Los Angeles County President's Award "In appreciation for outstanding service to our membership." Her maternity portraiture has been specifically recognized - with the 2002 People's Choice award and the 2003 print competition Chairman's Award - Portrait.

Studio-gallery hours: by appointment.

(310)234-1055