A matter of experience

A film camera. A studio setting.

Why, you might ask, take pictures with a film camera when a digital camera is so much more convenient, not to mention more efficient? 

Well, first of all, let’s not argue. Each system has its merits. But film photography provides a different experience overall, one that requires a different, more trusting attitude from the sitter and the photographer. 

The process itself isn’t entirely analogue. Once we’ve taken the pictures and developed the film, we scan the negatives into a computer and employ the usual software tools (Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop) to make any adjustments. What you get at the end are digital files suitable for online display or printing.

Our studio is set up to facilitate traditional lighting techniques, with simple backgrounds and a minimum of props.

We use medium- and large-format cameras and both colour and black and white film.

Headshots and portraits

Why the distinction?

A headshot is the more purposeful of the two. It serves to project an image that will conform to others’ expectations, whether in the workplace or on social media. “This is me,” it says, “and I’m up for the job / right for the part / playing by the same rules as the rest.” A calling card, in effect, it leaves the impression of a confident, self-assured, employable / castable / befriendable person.

A portrait may do this, too, of course, but in a more roundabout fashion, with greater nuance and no attempt at finality. A portrait invites a little conjecture, supports a longer narrative, and — instead of fixing a dominant trait in the viewer’s mind — tends to introduce a lingering ambiguity, a sense of depth and breadth. The sitter may well not be “up for the job,” etc. She may indeed be showing, in pose or expression, a desire to protect rather than to project herself. Portraiture is open to this — will even, in some cases, make it the main point of interest. 

In short, the headshot is an answer, the portrait a question.

Group portraits 

When you’re not you alone.

 A portrait may also be of more than one person — may, in fact, portray a relationship between friends or family members. 
It may be studied or casual, light or sombre, whatever mood the sitters wish — or allow themselves — to convey. 

Your options

Our pricing guidelines.