EP 9: Helen Tansey: Head Shot Photographer

On this episode of Second Act Actors, I take a break from talking with actors to connect with Helen Tansey, who transitioned from a career in modelling to become a full time photographer. Today, she’s known for taking headshots of some of the most famous actors and celebrities, and she captures their essence in a unique and dynamic way. Her work has been featured on TV and in many magazines.

Helen and I dive into the topic of age discrimination, which is a problem everywhere but particularly in the film industry in North America. Helen launched a project to photograph women over the age of 40, whom she calls ‘Sundari Women’, to showcase their beauty and to celebrate the process of ageing. As Helen says, fighting age discrimination starts with us and with refusing to be side-lined.

Later, we talk about dealing with rejection, which is a constant problem of starting out as an actor. It’s very difficult to give it your all in an audition and to be incredibly vulnerable in front of strangers and to still be turned away. Helen finds this vulnerability in actors to be a real gift, and they’re some of her favourite clients to work with because they can be open and honest, even when they’re struggling in their career.

Listen out for Helen’s tips on getting headshots for new actors, and subscribe to the podcast so that you don’t miss an episode.

Timestamps

[2:07] How Helen started her second act of photography after being a model

[4:00] What Helen gained from her modelling career

[5:51] Setting the subject of the photo shoot at ease

[8:31] What Helen does to keep her creative fires burning

[10:50] Using meditation to become a better actor

[15:30] “Fighting against age discrimination starts with us”

[19:00] What surprised Helen about starting in a new industry

[22:05] The only acting audition that Helen attended

[22:52] Facing rejection as a new actor

[26:25] Helen on working with actors