Vancouver Headshots Inc. / Vancouver, BC

© Vancouver Headshots Inc.

“Be kind and grateful. Work hard to be able to continue to do what you love. Support the industry that puts food on your table and a roof over your head.” - Ian

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Dwayne Brown:
Hi Ian, we've admired your work with actors for quite some time, and we're very grateful you're a member of Headshots Matter! Please tell us about your journey as a photographer. How did you get started, and what inspired you to specialize in headshot photography?

Ian:
Thanks, Dwayne. My journey as a photographer started with a photography program I took over 20 years ago, followed by two apprenticeship jobs with photographers. One was with a portrait photographer, and then one with one of Vancouver's top headshot photographers at the time. I learned so much from her and am very grateful as she showed me the type of photographer I wanted to be. I then began to launch my own business as an acting headshot photographer 22 years ago, which blossomed into Vancouver Headshots Inc. I have a falcon tattoo on my leg with a camera around its neck and the words Drive and Passion. I'm inspired and driven by the love of my job, meeting new people every day and providing them with images that help them succeed.

DB
As the owner of Vancouver Headshots Inc., what motivated you to establish a studio focused on actors' headshots, and what sets your approach apart from other photographers in your field?

IR
The motivation behind specializing in Acting Headshots was how busy this industry is in Vancouver, Hollywood North. And the community surrounding it, the talent agents, the acting schools and, of course, the actors. It's a wonderful industry to be a part of, and I love seeing my clients make it to the big screen on TV shows and in the movies.

DB
You've been specializing in actors' headshots for quite some time. How has the industry evolved since you started, and what changes and challenges have you observed regarding client needs and industry trends?

IR
Yes, I have been doing actor headshots in Vancouver, Hollywood North, for over 20 years now, and the industry here keeps growing and growing. Many amazing TV series have been filmed here, and new ones like The Last of Us and Percy Jackson keep coming. A lot has stayed the same in regard to the needs of actor headshots, but there have been changes to them. They no longer need headshot prints, as most auditions are now done via self-taping. So it's primarily digital headshots now since Covid.

DB
How do you kindle your creativity, and where do you find inspiration for your photography?

IR
My creativity comes from my studio; it could be the natural light coming into the studio that day, some new background colours we are working with, or perhaps we are on location shooting. But primarily, my inspiration comes from my clients. And the beauty, character and personality they bring to me in front of the camera.

DB
Could you share insights into your creative process when working with experienced actors vs younger aspiring actors? How do you bring out their unique qualities and desired looks during a photoshoot?

IR
To be honest, I don't find a difference between the inexperienced and the experienced actors behind the camera. Many factors go into bringing out their qualities and looks, such as the wardrobe they have prepared with for their session, which is extremely important for their session and character looks. And I take great pride in constantly directing the client regarding posing and expressions needed to capture that look. A photographer must know how to communicate and direct their clients well. It creates an amazing relationship with the client, resulting in a wonderful experience that makes them feel comfortable in front of the camera.

DB
Your extensive network within the Vancouver acting, TV, film, and casting industry is impressive. How do the strong connections you've built with talent agencies, casting directors, and acting schools shape your approach to creating standout headshots in this competitive industry?

IR
Honestly, it doesn't have an effect on my approach. The bottom line is it's about relationships and trust with them, as they (talent agents/acting schools) know that by sending their clients to us, we will help them by providing amazing headshots that will get them noticed by casting directors and, in the door for auditions and callbacks.

DB
I'd love to know more about your philosophy of 'Community Karma.' Can you elaborate on what this means and how it reflects in your work and community engagement?

IR
Community Karma is my passion and work ethic to earn the trust of acting instructors and talent agencies so they trust our work and product for their clients. They help us, and we help them. Treat everyone well, work hard to produce a product that will benefit them, and be thankful and grateful for the people who keep you doing what you love. Be kind and grateful. Work hard to be able to continue to do what you love. Support the industry that puts food on your table and a roof over your head.

DB
Collaboration is an essential part of your creative process. Could you elaborate on the significance of coaching and guidance to your clients in aspects like wardrobe, hair, makeup, posing, and expressions? How does this collaborative process play a crucial role in achieving success during a headshot session?

IR
I call it more preparation than collaboration. In order for our clients to get the best results, they need to be prepared and looking their best. That is a combination of 3 things, wardrobe, hair and makeup, and being able to not overthink during the session. Be calm, be yourself and have fun.

DB
Lastly, Ian, in your opinion, why do Headshots Matter?

IR
Well, for my industry, actors have to have a good headshot; it is their key to getting an audition to show their talent to a casting director. Headshots matter because an actor needs to have recent images that represent their current look, character and personality, and they need to be done professionally, showcasing their best.

DB
Thanks so much Ian!
We’re very grateful for your time and that you’re such a committed member of Headshots Matter. I think your 'Community Karma’ philosophy is something that others will be just as inspired by as your photography!

To see more of Ian’s work with Vancouver Headshots Inc., please take a look at his website: www.vancouverheadshotphotographer.ca