Michael Teak Photography

Headshots with Purpose

I know what it feels like to have the camera and lights pointed at you, because for over 20 years I worked internationally as a model and actor. I was fortunate to work with and learn from top photographers like Mark Seliger, Peter Lindbergh, and Trunk Xu, but back when I started modeling I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. Eventually I developed a keen sense for lighting and composition, and more importantly, I learned what made the difference in communicating and interacting between photographer and subject. I know what helped me to relax and be natural in front of a camera and I can help you too.

Part Artist, Part Nerd

Photography is a blend of art and craft, and in a sense it comes down to problem-solving. There's a vision we're aiming to achieve and we'll combine elements of styling, lighting tools, angles, and posing to get there. This is the part that I get to nerd out on. Anything that's not getting us closer to what we're trying to say is standing in our way, and I love the alchemy of combining what we need and eliminating the rest to create something clear, genuine, and strong that sets you apart. You don't need to worry about any of this- that's my job! But this absolutely is a collaboration. I'll walk you through the process of homing in on the impression we're looking to make, then I'll just need you to show up ready to have fun and simply engage with an open mind.

Why Focus on Headshots?

To me, headshots and other branding images are a perfect example of photography with purpose. It's personal, intentional, and makes a huge difference in how others perceive us, and sometimes even how we feel about ourselves. It forces us to ask ourselves, "Who am I?" and "Who do I want to be?", whether that's in the context of business, personal life, or other field. The process of creating a headshot clarifies who we are to ourselves and to those who will see it.

The Headshot Specialist

Many photographers take headshots, along with a host of other types of photography. But for me, headshots and commercial portraits are what I specialize in. I don't do weddings. I create images that get attention, that draw people in and make them want to know more, to work with you, to meet you. Headshots that show that you know who you are and you're damn good at what you do. That's what I do.