Today we’d like to introduce you to Will Overby.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I am a photographer who really enjoys creating images of people. My photographic journey did not start that way. I originally started by exploring different genres. My first attempt at photography was automotive. Automotive photography is something that I enjoyed doing. It is one of my passions, and it has helped me break into my photographic career. I then went more into landscape photography. Landscape photography was enjoyable as well. I was able to explore the world around me. It taught me how to scout for places to shoot and learn about the best times of day to create great images. I then eventually progressed to photographing people. Like anyone, I started photographing friends and family. Through working with people, it opened up a new world of possibilities for me. I have grown to explore how people photograph and what I enjoy most is that there is always something different for everyone. That is amazing to me. Coming from a warehouse career environment I was constantly in a place that was the same routine day in and day out. I felt like I wasn’t free to create my world. There came a point when my passion for photography took over. I knew that I wanted to establish myself as a professional beauty photographer. I got a rush just knowing that every job is a new experience and a chance to create a new piece of work. Now my journey is pursuing commercial beauty photography. I would love to work exclusively with brands and handle images for their marketing needs.
Please tell us about your art.
My art is in beauty photography both editorial and commercial. I am always drawn to faces. I love to examine my subjects and capture them in the best light. I do this by assembling a team of talented hair and makeup artist, one being my lovely wife and doing concept and development for various projects. I really value my team because with them the creative process becomes more than just taking a picture. It is creating a piece of artwork. Why did I choose to become a beauty photographer? That is a question that I love to answer. I chose this field because beauty has no boundaries. It can be found in life itself. When I capture a beauty portrait, its more than just a portrait. If you look closely, you will see that there is a sense of confidence and self-worth that radiates from within my clients. That is what true beauty is to me. Taking photographs of people has taught me that these aren’t just photographs, they are statements. My passion for doing this is to help bring these statements to life. I feel that everyone has the right to feel great about themselves and feel like they are of value.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
There are many financial challenges as an artist. The good thing is that in today’s society there are a few free methods that you can utilize. Social media being one of them. With a little bit of research, you can be able to message directly important people you would like to connect with. That would be my advice for someone starting out.
Building your portfolio is another struggle a new photographer may have as well. You will have a lot of free shoots to build your portfolio. I still do test shoots as a working professional. Instead of thinking of it as a free shoot, I like to think of it as practicing my craft. This will help you build confidence in what you do, and when you get a paid client, you will go in knowing that you are capable of executing the job.
Your main tools starting out would be a camera, a lens, some type of computer/laptop, and storage. I personally use external hard drives to store my images on. This helps keep my laptop running at optimal speed. There are a few free editing software options. As far as networking, get involved in the community and join meet up groups. That’s a great way to build your portfolio aside from utilizing social media.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
People can see my work through my website and through social media. My website www.wnophotography.com. People can support my work by booking with me to gain the experience that I give to my clients. Referrals to brands that align with my style of work are also great as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wnophotography.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wnophotography/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WNOPhotography
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/WNO_Photography
Image Credit:
First Picture
Anouk Samuel (left)
Alianna Perez( right
Hair/Makeup by Nykki G
Second Picture
(DaKeemia Colbert)
Hair/Makeup by Cherrelle Overby
Third Photo
Cné Rymes
Fourth Photo
Rachel Clugston (Left)
Marissa Ouhanni (Right)
Hair/Makeup By Nikki G
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.
