David Chiu

For the past few years I feel like I have struggled getting a really good headshot. Since 1996 I have had 5-6 photo shoots with two different photographers and unfortunately neither I nor my agencies have been completely satisfied with any of my photos. None of the photos seemed to bring out my personality or have that special “something” that casting directors are looking for. None of the photos except for the first photos I had done when I first arrived (the leather jacket shot taken by David LaPorte). I have basically outgrown my photos and now I need a great headshot that will grab attention and get me in the door. That’s why I chose to go with Vanie Poyey.

Vanie was one of the photographers suggested to me by my theatrical agency. I was actually given a list of different photographers and my wife and I sat down and browsed through the website for each photographer. In the end Heather told me I should go with Vanie because her photos captured a lot of creativity and personality and that’s what I needed.

So today I had my photo session with Vanie and it went incredibly well. Vanie is a very down to earth warm person and I felt very comfortable under her direction. In our initial meeting a few weeks ago we discussed my current headshots, what kind of roles I am auditioning for, what kind of shows/movies have I gone out for and what shows/movies would I like to go out for and would fit me. Vanie is all about finding the specific looks and characters that will best sell the actor to the casting director. This I totally love. It gives the photo shoot more purpose other than to get the “pretty picture”.

After arriving at her place for my session we talked briefly about my wardrobe and once again discussed the types of characters that I would fit. We decided on three looks/characters: the nice guy/college guy/guy next door, the urban guy/tough guy, and the young professional. Then we started looking at the clothes that I had brought to form outfits that would fit these characters. Vaney also started to brainstorm on locations around the area that we could shoot. We ended up shooting outside a public library, in a industrial wherehouse and underneath the freeway overpass. Working with Vaney was fun and very comfortable. She would create fictional scenarios in which each character could be in, in order to get personality and life in the photos. Everything was free flowing and minimally posed. We both had a great time and I believe this will translate into good pictures.

So in about 7 days I should have proofsheets of my photo session to show. I’m really excited to see the pictures. These pictures will definitely be different than any photos I have had done before. I can’t wait!