As we celebrate 10 years of West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle, we reflect on the highlights from the 120 issues that brought us to today. Here’s a look back at some of our favorite covers and the stories behind them. We want to thank our brilliantly talented photographers for their contributions over the past decade—your work is truly amazing!
Michelle: I photographed the cover for our launch issue at Fort Liberty Playland in early September. Since it needed to feel like fall for the November edition, finding leaves was a struggle—but my sons helped gather every one they could find.
Our 5-year anniversary issue was particularly challenging because it was shot during the pandemic, and photography was not considered an “essential” job. Photographer Len Kaltman gave me photography lessons via video call so I could learn how to get the drama and effect I was seeking for this anniversary cocktail.
Tera: Len captured this beautiful action shot of ballerina Emma Krusling–a truly standout cover. I love when we get the opportunity to share the stories of our community’s teens that are chasing their dreams.
Michelle: Anjali Fong is a gifted photographer known for her striking black-and-white work. This image feels like something you’d expect to see on the cover if there were a Vogue for dogs.
Tera: Another favorite black-and-white cover is this stunning photo of Coach Camisha Noble at Starting Strength Cincinnati. This was our first shoot with photographer Cara Jonas, a flex both behind and in front of the lens.
The cover photo of these two young dancers was taken in the rooftop garden at Liberty Center. All the world is a stage! Their skill and grace attracted a crowd during that golden hour photo shoot. Learn more about this duo in the story on page X.
Michelle: This cover makes me smile every time I see it. The vibrant pink background, paired with the delicate and delicious macarons, creates a joyful image.
Tera: We like to eat, so food shoots are often our favorites. Photographer Amanda Lippert was precariously balanced atop a chair for most of this session. We thoroughly enjoyed the tasty samples shared by Stephen Sung, engineer turned ice cream entrepreneur.
I fell in love with the Turner family and their retired racing greyhounds, as pictured on this charming cover. All eight canine eyes were on Len Kaltman’s lens, thanks to a rattling container of treats.
Michelle: It took Cara almost 200 shots and 3 hours to get this image (puppies don’t take direction well), but it perfectly represents that month’s theme of Kids + Pets with a school focus.
Our fashion issue is always the most intricate to produce, but one of my favorite practices is featuring our readers as models, including Jenny Gutman shown here. The combination of this bold ensemble with the Liberty Center streetscape creates a striking visual.
Fiona requires no introduction! She is indisputably the most famous cover model we’ve ever captured, so going behind-the-scenes with her at the zoo was a special treat for our team.
Our talented and dedicated photographers are willing to go the extra mile to get the perfect shot, and we appreciate all they do for each issue of West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle.