“The most beautiful thing I can photograph is confidence: silently flowing from the depths of the soul, looking straight into the eyes and showing the inner strength of character. My main goal is to catch the moment where someone's confidence is most apparent.”

Thanks so much for taking some time Mike to share some of your story. We’re very grateful that you’re a part of Headshots Matter!

You’re originally from Poland, when did you move to the UK and how long have you been a portrait photographer?

I moved to the United Kingdom in 2011. I had no photography experience before then, but I bought my first professional camera in 2014.

Before I visited the UK, I visited a camera shop to buy a basic point-and-shoot camera. However, I decided that these did not interest me, so I bought a DSLR camera. Looking back, this was probably not the best idea as I had no idea how to use it. I took all the photographs in manual mode (without me knowing), and each photograph had different settings.

When I looked at the images, they were all out of focus and overexposed. I was slightly disappointed with the outcome of the images, and the camera sat on my shelf for a year. It was then that I decided I needed to learn how to use all the settings on the camera. I watched tutorials online, bought camera magazines and did a lot of research. After this, my photographs started to improve, and my confidence in taking pictures increased.

I always enjoyed taking pictures of people as it's nice to see their reactions when you capture them perfectly. However, I did lack confidence at first and practised by taking pictures of landscapes for a few years. During this time, people kept asking me to take some portrait photos of them or for their events, and after that, I decided that I would set up my studio.

Often actors are looking for headshots that are very ‘authentic’. How do you creatively navigate the fine balance of an authentic headshot and one that is also really well lit and shot with great attention to detail?

Authentic headshots are challenging, but this is why I enjoy taking them. The tip is to get the lighting just right so there is no crisp light, highlights or shadows that are too strong. Every headshot will need adjusting based on the individual as people's age, personality and skin tone will affect the picture I am trying to capture.

What is it about actors that you enjoy shooting the most?

The most beautiful thing I can photograph is confidence: silently flowing from the depths of the soul, looking straight into the eyes and showing the inner strength of character. My main goal is to catch the moment where someone's confidence is most apparent.

As a portrait photographer, how do you calm and disarm someone who’s very nervous in front of your camera?

It's important to make people feel comfortable in their surroundings and not to rush them. I don’t put any time limits on the session as this would only add to the pressure. I need them to take their time and become fully relaxed. They also need to see that I am relaxed as my mood would affect theirs. That's why I always like to come across as calm and reassuring. Talking to them is also a big help. I will try and find a topic we both know, to get them talking, which helps form a bond between us. After this, they usually become more relaxed and less nervous.

Who would you love to photograph someday and why?

There are a lot of people I would love to portray. Usually, they are leaders, artists, athletes etc. Any person with a high level of charisma. If I had to choose one person, it would be the extraordinary British actor Daniel Day-Lewis.

Do you ever photograph your headshot clients on location, or do you prefer the control you have when shooting in your studio?

Having full control of the surroundings will always produce a better photograph, so I prefer to work in a studio. I have taken portrait images on location plenty of times with the assistance of studio lighting. These are usually harder and will require the help of an assistant.

You’re very grateful and kind with your words on social media? How has gratitude played a role in your photography business?

Networking and connecting with people are something I enjoy. Social Media has been a massive help as it allows you to build relationships with people from all over the world that you otherwise would never get the chance to interact with. If my words can help someone, then it gives me great satisfaction. Social media has been an amazing tool to help me with photography and meeting new people.

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

My main source of inspiration is painting, especially the Swedish impressionist Anders Zorn's paintings. His way of mastering light using the four colours is unsurpassed. I also devote a lot of attention to the painting of the 17th-century Dutch painter Jan Vermeer. His realism and play of lights are perfect. Also, an important source of inspiration for me is cinematographer Robby Muller.

How critical is mindset when preparing for a photoshoot and is there anything you do specifically to prepare yourself?

Mindset is something that’s really important to me. Before each session I like to spend some time alone and listen to classical music as I find this really helps me relax. This helps me mentally prepare for the shoot and ensures I am fully relaxed, but also full of energy. If I find that I do need an energy boost then I find Paraguayan Yerba Mate Tea does the trick.

Lastly, in your opinion, why do headshots matter?

Headshots reflect who you are, your business, and what it means. It is crucial to build trust. It allows you to distinguish yourself from the competition and, apart from the logo, its a key and an important part of building a professional brand. Significantly, in today's world dominated by the Internet and social media, a headshot is what makes our first impression, which is a real game changer for us.

Thanks so much Mike, we love your work and it’s been really nice to learn more about how you approach it!

To learn more about Mike Wojcik and his portrait work, please take a peak at his website: www.mikewojcik.co.uk

studiotalk

StudioTalk

Mike Wojcik / Liverpool, England

“The most beautiful thing I can photograph is confidence: silently flowing from the depths of the soul, looking straight into the eyes and showing the inner strength of character. My main goal is to catch the moment where someone's confidence is most apparent.”

Headshots Matter

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