Today we’d like to introduce you to Henry David.
Hi Henry, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, you could tell our readers some of your backstory.
As a young artist, I was deeply engrossed in visual arts. My days were spent drawing, illustrating, and painting, often trying to recreate famous art pieces with meticulous detail. At the time, I was having fun, but looking back, it was the best training in composition and lighting I could have ever received. As I got older, I wondered: How can I turn this love for art into a real job? I wanted to know what to do next. My time in Los Angeles was transformative. While visiting a friend on a film set, I met an experienced photographer who recognized my artistic eye. I was captivated by how he used light and shadow, and I became obsessed with learning how light and lenses worked together to create drama and story. I wanted to use my artistic background to capture not just images but emotions, stories, and moments. My camera became my constant companion.
I began by taking portraits of actors and musicians, showing what they loved doing. Many of my actor friends also frequently needed headshots for auditions, so I started doing that, too. I used what I learned about lighting and composition to make these photos look professional and expressive. When the pandemic hit, the world changed. Traditional photography opportunities disappeared, but it was a blessing in disguise, pushing me to adapt. I realized that in an increasingly virtual world, professionals needed a way to stand out and make their mark. That’s when I decided to focus on making headshots that were different. Today, I take photos that help people stand out and show their true selves, empowering them to show up consistently online. My clients are delighted with the results. They often tell me they didn’t expect their photos to look so good. Today, my mission is clear: to use my artist’s eye to help professionals make a lasting impression, ensuring they stand out in their fields.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My photography journey was different from the typical one. With no formal training, the studio, with all its complexities of lighting, reflectors, and backdrops, presented a significant learning challenge for me. I started simply with fundamental photography gear. I relied on available sunlight and only took portraits outdoors, staying away from learning studio photography for several years. However, the draw of studio photography was undeniable. The drama and detail we see in magazine cover photos promise the amazing potential and stylistic breadth possible with lighting that can only be achieved in the studio. I am determined to learn about this realm of storytelling. I dipped my toes into studio work with the assistance of experienced photographers willing to give me advice and honest feedback. Gradually, through consistent effort and learning through trial and error, I evolved from being a photographer reliant on natural light to a photographer capable of harnessing the art of studio lighting techniques.
Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us a bit more about your work.
I genuinely care about my clients. Getting your photo taken can be nerve-wracking, but I’m known for my ability to guide people so they relax and enjoy themselves. When clients are at ease and having fun, the results speak for themselves. The best part? When clients see their photos and say, “Wow, I can’t wait to share these!” Helping people and businesses show off their best selves is what I love to do.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Lindsay Adler has been a beneficial resource. Her books on posing and creative lighting techniques benefit any portrait photographer. I’m proud to be a member of the PPA, the Professional Photographers of America. Their workshops and conferences provide invaluable training and information to photographers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.henrydavidphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/henrydavidphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/henrydavidphoto/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/henry-david-photography
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/henrydavidphoto
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG_qvQ0f2Ymhi3Ir-UbFEgg
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/henry-david-photography-brentwood
Image Credits
Henry David Photography
