As a portrait photographer; I am privileged to be part of an amazing community. A creative community populated by some of the most inspiring and talented people you can imagine existing.
And as a headshot photographer; I know that many within that creative community feel the work I do is comparatively monotonous and uninteresting.
I get it.
While headshots can be creative, they’re not a style noted for their creativity. If they’re known for anything it’s their consistency – essentially the antithesis of creativity. While headshots can be artistic, they’re not normally about creating art. So for a community that thrives on being creative and artistic, headshots don’t really satisfy. With some exceptions of course.
What is it about headshot photography that I love?
It’s easiest to explain that, for me, being artistic or creative was never a driving factor. I do not consider myself an artist. My passion isn’t creating art. It’s truthfully not even photography.
It’s about what I can do with photography – a subtle distinction I know.
And headshots have something most other genres of portraiture don’t… utility.
A great headshot opens doors.
A great headshot helps you get noticed.
A great headshot helps you land that job.
A great headshot helps you promote yourself and build your brand.
A great headshot helps you inspire confidence and trust.
A great headshot helps you communicate who you are.
Yes, I admit, headshots often lack in those artistic qualities that draw people to photography. But to me, headshots make up for that in being genuine, a quality I personally love. A headshot is meant to be an honest reflection of real character… no fantasy, nothing faked.
Headshots are entirely about capturing the authentic person, but even more then that, they’re about helping people grow.
The first time a client explained that it was my headshot that got them noticed for a big role they wanted… or got them the job they needed… I realized I was empowering people to change their lives – and that feels really damn good.
So my answer to why I love headshot photography is that honestly, it’s not about the photography.
It’s about the people.
My passion is empowering people.
Helping people grow and find success.
Photography is simply the tool I use.
