

Today we’d like to introduce you to Buckley Sampson.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve been a working actor for over 25 years in Los Angeles. For two years, I also owned my own casting company as well as worked at well known casting facilities both commercially and theatrically. I saw that many actors showed up to auditions not dressing for the part. I saw that many didn’t know their casting or the image that they were conveying and selling. I saw a need that would benefit actors, so I started my image consulting business.
For over ten years now I’ve worked through referrals of agents, managers, photographers and other actors. I’ve been on acting podcasts speaking about image consulting actors and now have a website and Instagram. I love helping actors seeing their potential, and I always want to leave a client empowered by our working together. I also work with non-actor professionals on how they want to be perceived in their workplace.
I’ve done Red Carpet events for clients, but I always say I’m more of a working-class stylist. I strive to get a wardrobe for my clients that inspire them but don’t break the bank. I manage my day still auditioning, working as an actress, and meeting with clients to improve their image, clothing, style, grooming, etc… I love to do it! I hope that every client of mine has me in their head… “Would Buckley approve of my outfit?”
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I wouldn’t say it has been smooth, but it has been an adventure of discovery and creativity! I enjoy being with all types of people and their personalities. Creating a business from scratch is no easy task, but I saw a need, and I simply put myself out there by word of mouth only. Actors that I consulted began getting agents, auditions, and bookings and the word slowly got out.
These days I sometimes book out a month in advance! Many times I am at an audition and in the waiting room are actors I’ve consulted! I know I’ve succeeded with actors when I see them at an audition as my competition! I am constantly challenged by wanting to give everyone everything and sometimes I simply don’t have enough time in one session!
I have a lot to share, advise, consult, etc., and I just want everyone to win, thrive and present their best image. Over the years the road has gotten smoother as I’ve become better at seeing what clients more readily need and also have learned to communicate with people with different needs and backgrounds.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Image by Buckley is an image consulting business. I’ve specialized in actors for the last eight years and now have expanded to other professional clients. I’m known for being straight and tell it like it is. I always do it with love and a smile, but I’m not going to sugar coat it or tell you what you want to hear. I’m like your cool, older or younger sister but you are hiring me, and I take it very seriously. Your success is my success. I’m reliable and fast when shopping (I’ve been called the energizer bunny) and I have great referrals for outside any services you may need.
What sets me apart from others is my experience being with all types of professionals. I was a transformational coach for five years leading to thousands. I am a working actors of 25 years and know my business, and I am an amazing researcher on my clients. I come with ideas, images, and wardrobe ideas. Most importantly: I always have a plan.
What were you like growing up?
I consider myself an oil brat growing up because my father worked at a large oil company. We moved every two-three years right up to college, but even then I still went to two colleges. I decided to move to LA after school in Chicago, and I’ve never left (as well as my brother).
Moving around so much you must adapt quickly, and you figure out your people. I’ve always been outgoing and tend to jump right in. For example, when I was six, I told a new friend that I danced… I had never danced but wanted to fit in! My mom then had to put me in class.
I ended up dancing corps de ballet for both the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater and The Dallas Metropolitan dance company. Even now, I find myself enrolling dance recitals 2x a year! I love the community, and the age range in a performance runs from 16-72. It’s my joy.
My senior year in high school I decided to audition to be a cheerleader. Again, I was never a cheerleader growing up, but don’t tell me I can’t because I will prove you wrong! In Los Angeles, I discovered architecture and design and loved anything mid-century modern. I love the aesthetic and functional beauty. I live in a mid-century home, attend lectures and events and love to dress up in period clothes… frankly, just getting dressed up in general! My girlfriends laugh at me that I don’t own a pair of sweat pants.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.imagebybuckley.com
- Phone: 3233092755
- Email: imagebybuckley@gmail.com
- Instagram: @imagebybuckley
Image Credit:
Damian Fabio Sandola, Alison Robertson, Jayme Lynn Evans, Virginia Tran, Audrey Moore, Tatyana Figueiredo, Caroline Liem, Pace University
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
Sylvia Kostopoulos
July 23, 2019 at 16:23
WOW.WOW,WOW,….how delightful to see what that cute little Buckley kid from up the street on Broad Cove Cape Elizabeth become! A beautiful, successful, talented woman!! CONGRATULATIONS Kristan!!!