Not Just a Photographer

I'm an actor, an artist, a budding art teacher, and a fellow solo pro.

These things make me a great choice as your next headshot and portrait photographer.

The Actor Bit: I give you clear direction, so you can feel confident.

I know how to coach you with sensitivity, directness, and humour so that you get past "What do I do with my hands?!" and into a feeling of "I can do this."

Great headshots and portrait are about connection - to your photographer, to the camera, to your sense of your body, to what's going on in your head.

Lots of the directions I give are about connecting to your body and your sense of position in space. Some of them are mental provocations to engage your imagination, playfully. A lot of the time, my direction is actually just gentle instruction punctuated by jokes (usually on me).

After a while, people end up being able to "direct themselves". So after an hour or a morning with me, you'll feel a strong sense of agency about photos. You'll feel like you know what you're doing. You'll be quite proud. And you’ll l walk out of the shoot knowing how to nail the next one.

Learning how to embody personality is something I've learned through playing characters on TV. In a way, it's easier to "be someone else". But having had my portrait taken a lot "as myself" has taught me so much about relating to the camera and to the experience, full stop. I'd love to share that with you.

The Artist Bit: Spontaneity and Creativity are my MO.

Because I shoot with natural light, I'm always responding to the day, crafting the environment. Authenticity and character define a personal brand that's honest, and natural light amplifies both.

I use lots of things to modify the light coming in my east-facing windows and I know which positions in the room and which angles of your body and face will result in a variety of beautiful (or even dramatic) portraits.

Even light across our face is generally the most flattering. Side light is for the brave, and I'm totally into it! Especially on a face that's seen some life. Ageism is rife in our culture and I want to celebrate the wisdom and experience that come with living. "Flattering" is what we're all after but lighting which plays up the passage of time can create striking, bold, uncompromising images.

And I'm all for everyone feeling the profound acceptance and appreciation which can arise from looking at a gallery full of our own face.

The Budding Art Teacher bit: I’m here to support and to serve.

If your work is as close to your heart as you could possibly get, so's mine. Your people - your audience, your clients - need you in a profound way. Let's help them spot you in the crowd.

The Solo Pro Bit: I’m just like you!

I understand that you're spinning plates and doing all of the things, building something yourself because you're fiercely independent.

I see you marketing yourself, crafting insights and content. Because I'm doing it too.

You don't have to do everything alone.

I’m here to help.

xAB