Journal
Does gear matter?
How we choose to express ourselves as photographers often emerges from the tools we use - whether that be the camera, lens, lighting setups, backgrounds, or as I discussed in the last article, the studio (yes, I think of the studio as “gear” just as I do the camera). In this post, I want to talk about my camera setup and some of the most useful pieces of kit I use in the studio.
The Studio
I've had six studios over the course of the last five years, and each one of them brings a different character to the type of work that I do, whether that be in the background walls or the flooring, or the position of the windows to produce different types of light, the size of the space, the height of the ceiling, or in something less tangible - the atmosphere in the space, whether it feels like a domestic space, whether it feels like a creative workshop space, or more of a corporate office space.
How I Generated Leads at The Beginning of my Photography Business (and what I do today)
Over the years there has been a shift in how I generate leads for my business. In this post I want to discuss the various methods that I have used and where I think you could put your energy to help you generate more leads, especially in the beginning.
Getting Started With My Headshot Photography Journey
2026 marks the fifth anniversary of starting my portrait and headshot photography business (May is the actual anniversary), so I have decided to publish a series of articles to recount the process, hopefully providing some meaningful lessons along the way.
How I shoot artistic actors headshots
In every shoot I try to do something different. I want to add in a new element, try out a new idea, push in a different direction than the day before. I’m restless, frustrated by sameness - in both my own work and the work of others. I’ve always had this restlessness, this getting bored easily. I grew up in the countryside and would spend hours inventing games for myself because I had no siblings to play them with.
Ep. 8 - Photography Adjacent Art Death Life
Jonny attracts diverse clients, all drawn to his unique ability to reveal the profound and personal through his lens. "The range is wild... from designers to boutiques…But lately, it's photographers from every corner of the earth, which continues to amaze me,". Jonny's work transcends aesthetic beauty, transforming lives. Reflecting on social media's double-edged sword and the quest for authenticity, he observed, "Despite its flaws, social media has been pivotal to my success... It's about rediscovering photography and, in doing so, coming back to myself."
Ep.6 Photography Adjacent Podcast - The Limitless Entreprenuer
In this week's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Robyn Davie - a forward thinking photographer and entreprenuer from Johannesburg, South Africa.
Delving into the heart of Robyn Davie's work, we explored how her global journey profoundly shaped her approach to photography and leadership. The narrative is one of adapting to change, embracing community, and leading with a commitment to empowering the next generation of photographers.
Ep.4 Photography Adjacent Podcast - The Cinematic Storyteller
Over the years, Sean honed his headshot photography skills, capturing actors from aspiring students to award-winning talents. His work has opened doors—landing his subjects roles on Netflix and Viaplay. More than just taking their picture, Sean elevates his subjects, helping them stand out in a competitive industry.
Sean's approach to photography is deeply rooted in photorealism. He takes the time to understand his clients, listening to their needs. His goal is to capture their personality in a natural way. He enhances the portrait with a minimalist editing style without creating an artificial image—something that we need to hold on to more these days with the emergence of AI-assisted photos. Sean's photos aren't about perfection; they're about showcasing the real person.
Ep.2 Photography Adjacent Podcast: Unconventional Beginnings with Jacqui McSweeney
Brighton based headshot and portrait photogrtapher Jacqui McSweeney shares her story from blagging her first job as a press photographer in a Czech bar through to working 26 years as a wedding photographer and now turning her highly honed skills to headshot photography
Ep 1. Photography Adjacent Podcast: Embracing Humility with Dwayne Brown
Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Photography Adjacent Podcast, where our explorations extend far beyond photography. In our first episode, Tom Trevatt interviews Dwayne Brown, a photographer with 40 years of experience and the founder of Headshots Matter. Dwayne emphasizes the importance of curiosity and humility in photography, as well as the evolution of his career from commercial photography to focusing on headshots. He discusses the creation of Headshots Matter, a platform that connects photographers with clients looking for headshot services. Dwayne also highlights the supportive community within Headshots Matter and the valuable resources it provides. The episode concludes with discussing the future of Dwayne's photography career and the significance of storytelling in headshots.
HOW TO CHOOSE A HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHER
Who you choose to take your headshots is an important consideration - whether you’re an actor or professional in the business world, having the right imagery can play an important part in the impression others have of you.
HOW MANY HEADSHOTS DOES AN ACTOR NEED?
Actors headshots are the most important tool you have in your arsenal - they will get you seen, and secure you that sought after role. Neglecting to have a range of headshots on your casting profile may limit what you can achieve. But how many headshots do actors need?
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU GET NEW HEADSHOTS?
How often you get new headshots depends on a number of factors, but I’d always suggest the aim should be to keep things fresh.