Toby Lee

How did you become a photographer?
I started dabbling when I was training to be an actor at drama school. I would dabble with a camera making short films and taking rehearsal photos of projects.

How did you get into shooting headshots specifically?
My housemate, whilst training, signed with an agent who instantly requested she “Get some new shots taken, even if by a friend with a camera in the meantime.”… I was that friend and it all grew from there.

Where do you shoot?
I shoot in the comfort of my home studio. It is a top floor flat with lovely views overlooking a park and plenty of natural light in South East London.

How would you define your style?
Forward, engaging, clean and real.

Tell us what you like most about your job?
I love capturing an individual’s potential. Seeing what energy they bring to the session and working with them to create images that will make a casting director look and say ‘They’ve got IT!’.

And tell us what you like the least?
It can sometimes feel a little limiting working in one space all the time. It is great to get out and photograph theatre productions or work with drama schools and businesses on headshot days.

Who is your photography hero?
That is a tough one... Come back to me. I enjoy a range of styles and having worked with other APHP members, I am always inspired by their work!

What track is most likely to be playing in your studio or on you iPod?
It is always so varied. During a session it is the client’s choice and I think I have had it all; from swing to house. One client put on the soundtrack from The Last of the Mohicans. But for me, I enjoy a bit of Johnny Cash, Arctic Monkeys or Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Jaffa Cake or Digestive?
Gotta love a Jaffa Cake but you can’t dunk them in a lovely brew like a digestive.

Wine or beer?
Beer, certainly.

Cats or dogs?
I wouldn't want to disappoint @presleythechipoo by saying both…

How would you like to be remembered?
That nice guy… The tall one… Had a bit of a beard.

About Toby Lee
Web address: www.headshottoby.co.uk
Twitter: @headshottoby
Insta: @headshottoby
Facebook: @headshottoby