Today we’d like to introduce you to Christian Webb.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Christian. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
While I have a film/photography background, It wasn’t until 2015 that I began shooting headshots exclusively. That year, my business, my brand, and look of headshots started to grow traction in NY. My journey to ATL started Oct. 2015 when I was invited down to teach a workshop to other photographers. A gentleman named Chris Smith who had followed and been a fan of my work via social media contacted me and extended me the offer. Soon after that, my reputation in ATL grew and it was time to start going more regularly. I was invited down to teach another workshop and took a few days to shoot a bunch of clients. The first location I ever used was in the parking garage at the Lenox Mall. After a few trips doing that, I was booted from the garage and had to find a new location that would suit my style and provide some tye of the blue/teal background I was becoming famous for. In 2017, I got a place in Atlantic Station and made ATL my second home. I now travel there every 2-3 months or so to shoot, see family, friends and have a great time. My new place is in Midtown. Over the years, as my reputation grew and I continued to stay in demand, I’ve made more frequent trips there. I’ve shot tons of ATL actors and have worked with some truly fantastic people.
I’ve often been asked why I shoot headshots as opposed to something more glamorous and exciting like fashion. Truth is, I enjoy people and making my photos about… the person. It’s not about the clothes, the fashion, the styling or elaborate setup. It’s all about that one man or woman or child in front of my lens.
It would be easy for me to say as a former actor myself, I understand the importance of a great headshot. But what I’d rather say and what the truth is, that as a photographer, I understand the issues associated with trying to get a great headshot and what it entails. I understand from the actor’s perspective the anxiety sometimes when it comes to finding a photographer and actually sitting for a session. It’s truly a huge responsibility and it takes a serious understanding of the craft to produce worthwhile images that will serve to advance an actor’s career. The gratification from knowing that one of my shots helped someone get looked at, get in the door and/or get cast is a major part of doing what I do. I have a positive impact on someone’s life, and that at the end of the day is the most rewarding thing one can do.
While I CAN shoot and do get hired to shoot other genres of photography every now and then, 95% of my business is shooting actor headshots. Browse my portfolios and you won’t find baby photos, weddings, and bikini shots! My business is shooting actors and delivering the absolute best headshots they can get to advance their careers.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
For the most part, it’s been pretty smooth. My business and reputation took off very fast and I have been blessed to stay booked and working in 2 cities. I’d say the only challenges at first were in Atlanta. I brought a style of headshot there that many weren’t used to and in fact, was more L.A. and NYC favored. I often shoot in landscape orientation and at first, that was not always considered good in ATL. In addition, my pricing was considered a bit higher for most in ATL even though it was cheaper than my NYC pricing. I simply remained committed to delivering a high end, high-quality product unlike anything out there. As a result, the actors who took their profession seriously and recognized the level of work I deliver have continued to book me.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of as a company? What sets you apart from others?
I’m a headshot photographer specializing in headshots for actors. I’m mostly known for the high quality and “pop” of my headshots as well as the rich, deep blue and teal backgrounds that have become a part of my look. If I’m proud of anything, it’s knowing that I’ve served so many actors who have gotten back to me to let me know of how their headshots have changed their lives and made a real difference in the acting careers. What sets me apart is my dedication to quality and the level of perfection I strive for when it comes to working with and shooting actors. Of course, I’m also known as ‘Mr. Blue Magic’ because of how I use blues in my work. Which, has inspired other headshot photographers to do the same. I guess I can add that I’m proud to have influenced them.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My early mentors were fellow headshot photographers Peter Hurley and Dylan Patrick. Both of which I learned numerous things from when it comes to photographing actors. My support team starts with my incredible wife who watched me start building my career as a headshot photographer and has seen the success along the way. My good friend, brother and photography assistant David J. Mack IV has been an awesome part of my team and support. Rounding it all out would be my beloved makeup artist there in ATL, Naja Alston (you all should do a story on her next!). She’s been with me pretty much since I started there in ATL and has been one of the most important components of making the business run. Finally, the actors, agencies/agents, managers in NYC & ATL who continue to support me and endorse me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.christianwebbphoto.com
- Phone: 646-467-4098
- Email: chris@christianwebbphoto.com
- Instagram: @christianwebbphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristianWebbPhoto
- Twitter: @christianwebbny
Image Credit:
All images Christian Webb
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