When it comes to headshots, I always believed that the old ones should do the trick. After all, they look like me, and that's what mattered right? However, as I embarked on a new and exciting project with my BIGGEST client ever, I began to realize that I had outgrown those old images. And I needed headshots that felt more authentic and reflective of the present me.
The need for new headshots came as a bit of a surprise. It seemed like this requirement was sprung on me at the last minute, and it was one of those weeks where life kept throwing curveballs. Missing SD cards, unpredictable weather patterns, work commitments, and unexpected visits from friends and family—each day seemed to bring a new obstacle to my quest for the perfect headshot. However, with the final submission date looming just two days away, I realized that it was now or never. I couldn't afford to wait any longer, and the thought of rushing on the day of the submission filled me with anxiety.
So, I gathered a few of my favorite shirts, hastily applied a quick makeup routine, and found the glasses that felt most "me"—my signature circle glasses that you'll see throughout most of my self-portrait paintings. I decided that I wanted these headshots to feel organic and casual, capturing the essence of who I am today.
What made the experience truly memorable was the detour I took into silliness. As I stood in front of the camera, I couldn't help but take a few goofy reference photos of myself. This not only helped me relax and enjoy the process, but it also provided a light-hearted break from the tension. To my surprise, it piqued the curiosity of my niblings, who wandered over to see what I was up to. Before I knew it, they were in front of the camera too, striking hilarious poses and sharing in the fun. I definitely plan on using some of those photos for studies down the line.
As artists, flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities. We often find ourselves navigating unexpected challenges, thinking on our feet, and, most importantly, getting things done. This experience reminded me that even in the face of uncertainty and time constraints, I could create something authentic and meaningful. It reinforced the idea that as artists, we have the power to turn the unexpected into opportunities for creativity.
In the end, my new headshots may not have been meticulously planned or executed, but they capture the essence of who I am today. They reflect a moment of spontaneity, creativity, and resilience—an important reminder of what it means to be an artist.
So, as I move forward with my upcoming project, I do so with a newfound sense of confidence, knowing that my headshots are a true representation of the person who completed this journey.
Thanks for reading and I'll catch you in the next one!
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Sunday🌷
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