Meet Brandon Reece: Actor and Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brandon Reece and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brandon, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my headshot photography business because I’ve been on the other side of the camera as an actor so many times and I knew all of the things I did and didn’t love about the process. I was certain I could bring a fresh perspective and a better understanding of what the actor is experiencing, which makes for better photos. A headshot is more than a photograph and I understand exactly what it needs to convey. The fact that I am an actor AND a photographer makes me and my business unique in the industry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Recently, I just finished my new book entitled “The Headshot Book: An Actor’s Essential Guide to Taking the Perfect Headshot” which is now available on Amazon. What started as a labor of love at the beginning of Covid, is now an easy-to-read, comprehensive guide accessible to any actor across the globe. From wardrobe, to finding your essence, to creating specific characters for your shoot, I use full-color examples and wit to guide the actor through everything they need, from start to finish, for their big day in front of the camera. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and I couldn’t be more excited to share my knowledge with actors.

While I was in LA, I spent a lot of time talking to agents, managers, and casting directors to find out what makes a great headshot. It’s an actor’s first impression and since everything is online, a headshot only has a few seconds to stand out from the (sometimes) thousands of submissions.

Every actor who shoots with me receives a character development form beforehand to help them navigate what sometimes can be a very intimidating and daunting experience. I like to collaborate with actors and encourage them to allow the camera to capture a moment in the life of the character they’re creating, one that makes a character-specific headshot. It’s not a pose; it’s a moment in the fully-realized life of the character you’re embodying.

I’m most proud of being an approachable and collaborative photographer. Some photographers are more interested in having the actor fit into their brand instead of finding out what serves the actor best for their career goals. Actors see all the images while we’re shooting and they’re welcome to give me feedback on lighting, backdrops, wardrobe, and makeup. As an actor, I spent an exorbitant amount of money in LA on headshots for myself. When I started my own headshot business, I knew I had to eliminate all of the things I disliked in those sessions. Actors walk away from our shoot feeling confident and empowered.

As far as challenges along the way, I don’t think anyone pursuing acting thinks it’s gonna be an easy ride — not if they’re realistic, anyway. I have a theatre background which taught me a wonderful sense of discipline and work ethic that’s essential if you’re in this business for the long-haul.

As a professional actor, there is always room for improvement. Los Angeles, for me, was like a really long boot camp. I booked a commercial my first year there and my agent called and said, “Hey, they love you, and they wanna book you. But they need to meet you in person first because they don’t think you’re attractive enough.” I thought, oh, okay. Got it. This is how it’s gonna be. You can choose to see those things as obstacles or use them as fuel to further ignite your passion. I felt like LA was slowly trying to break me, but at the same time, when I chose to leave, I walked away as a stronger person and a better actor.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

The Beltline is always on the top of my list when I have friends visiting. It’s so unique to Atlanta and it’s a great way to see the city while burning a few calories.

We’re definitely stopping at New Realm Brewery to sit on the rooftop and people-watch. I love craft beer and I think New Realm’s Euphonia is an easy-to-drink Pilsner that never disappoints. It’s a great way to cool down in the Atlanta heat.

Taqueria Del Sol is another spot I love frequenting. Their fried chicken taco is mouth-wateringly delicious and their cheese dip is a must. Wash it down with a Creature Comforts Tropicalia and you’ve got the perfect lunch or dinner.

If you love Middle Eastern food, then Rina should be on your itinerary. This casual, diner-style eatery located conveniently on the Beltline has a fabulous outdoor patio where I highly suggest enjoying one of their frozen cocktails – The Hof Alma has Brooklyn Gin and Passionfruit which is easy to sip and looks just as gorgeous on your Instagram.

Sunday brunch is one of my favorite meals and The Select steals the show with its Breakfast Burger which is sure to cure any hangover from a long night out. The atmosphere and ambience are transportive and the service is always impeccable.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My business wouldn’t exist without actors. Most of my friends are actors and they have been nothing but supportive and encouraging over the past ten years on my journey as a photographer and small business owner. They say “it takes a village” and that’s definitely true in photography. The best compliment is when someone reaches out and tells me a previous client has referred them. Word of mouth is undoubtedly the most effective form of advertising.

Website: https://www.reecephotostudio.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reecephotostudio/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandonReecePhotography

Image Credits
Reece Photo Studio