I just worked with Doug for head shots for an upcoming book that I am writing. I had been putting the photoshoot off for a while. I was anticipating an awkward experience and then feeling anxious if the photos would turn out.
As my deadline approached, I reached out to some friends that and Doug came back to me multiple times. I reached out to Doug and he responded to me very quickly and we set it up this past weekend.
When I arrived, Doug had already been there much earlier setting up his equipment. He has some very cool proprietary lighting systems and other intimidating technical gear, yet he had a really easy way of explaining in plain english what the gear was, what it did, and not to worry about it.
I was surprised at how comfortable Doug made me feel. He was directive with a smile very expedient yet would take the time to tell a few stories to relax you. He would take photos while dropping dimes of wisdom about his craft that really gave you confidence in his expertise.
What really impressed me in addition to his great technical skills was his interpersonal skills. He was curious and asked questions about my book. He adapted his photoshoot to fit with both the personality of the book (a little more whimsical), but also my personality as well.
I realized that photography is more like sculpting. A truly gifted photographer is not just taking photos of what is, but through IQ and EQ draw out of you what could be. Doug wasn't just looking for a photo with a forced smile, but from the moment we met was trying to find a way to draw out authentic emotion in me and my work. He was sculpting me in order to capture a picture of who I was inside in addition to what I looked like outside.
My nervousness regarding my headshot at the root was my insecurity about the photo itself. Had I known how great it would be to work with Doug, I would have done it much sooner. He's a professional and an artisan in one. All of the photos were brilliant and made my wife smile, which is all the approval I needed. All at a great price too.
100% recommend Doug to anyone. read more