Ryan in Pirates of the Caribbean III

Okay, so here's the scoop on me...In a nutshell, I'm a happily married, professional freelance artist based in New York City, whose life revolves around...well...my wife and art!

My formal schooling includes an Associate in Arts with a concentration in Photographic Technology, a BFA in Theatre from the University of Central Florida, and an internship with the New York Film Academy.  I've worked as a Casting Assistant & Associate for Independent film house, Caius Productions, an Assistant Editor for award-winning Editor and Producer, Pete Opotowsky, and have collaborated as a Director, Producer, Actor and Director of Photography with many gifted artists,  award-winning filmmakers, directors and playwrights over the years.  The core of my passion has been in the film and theatre industry for over a decade, and as such, I think I can honestly say that I've gleamed my fair share of knowledge about the craft and business of filmmaking and theatre. Directing productions myself and having been on both sides of the casting table has given me valuable insight into the many factors that go into casting roles. And yes, having a great headshot is one of the factors that will help get you in the door.

My professional experience as a photographer includes forays as a Darkroom Technician and Portrait Studio assistant. My  photography has been published (magazine, catalog and editorial), sold at art shows and has been on public display numerous times.

Taking headshots wasn't a planned thing - I really don't think anyone says "When I grow up, I want to be a headshot photographer". And to be honest, I don't label myself as that either.  I got started doing it simply because my actor friends knew I was a photographer,  had seen some of my work, and so approached me to take their headshots. After being asked one too many times why I wasn't charging any money for my services, as well as getting an increasing number of referrals, I thought why not, and started to take on paying clients.

However, being an actor, I made a decision right then and there to keep my prices reasonable and fair. And no - I don't believe that "you always get what you pay for". Paying more than $400 for headshots is heresy if you ask me. Not only is that just too much for the work that goes into it on the photographer's end, you are going to have to update your headshots more sooner than later. AND, you will still need to shell out hundreds for your hard copy prints.

Having acted myself definitely keeps my conscience in check from charging an arm and a leg for headshots. There are some great photographers out there. The catch is that they have to pay for their big expensive studios and overhead, which flows onto you. I don't. The only overhead I have is my camera (I use a Nikon D70 professional series) my studio equipment and my time. I think $300 is very reasonable for professional quality headshots, especially considering the amount of personalized attention I will give you, before, during and after the shoot.

That said, I believe every headshot photographer's work should speak for itself. So please look over my online headshot portfolio. If you want to schedule an appointment and/or ask me any questions, please call me or send an email.  I would love to help you out in any way I can - especially if you are new to the New York acting business and need some leads for auditioning and making more connections of your own.  I look forward to working with you. Cheers!