Food, Flair & Frames: Rebecca Woollard on Client Chats
Talking with Clients: Rebecca Woollard
As part of a new feature on my website, I’ve decided to sit down and chat with my clients from time to time. I hope to discuss various topics, but specifically their careers, creative journeys, and, of course, their experiences working with me.
My first client for the Client Chats segment is the incredibly talented Rebecca Woollard—freelance food writer, recipe creator, and art director for food photography by day, and a multifaceted performer by night.
Rebecca and I met a few years ago through a mutual passion for theatre. I had the pleasure of photographing one of the theatre productions she was in. Since then, we’ve worked together on various projects.
During our conversation, Rebecca let me know how she balances being a performer and a food writer. We also explored her thoughts on photography, including her experience with getting headshots.
Rebecca’s Career Transition and Creative Process
Rebecca’s career has always been about finding new ways to express her creativity, but that wasn’t always the plan. Rebecca never expected to end up freelancing in food writing and photography. After transitioning to freelance work following the birth of her son, she learned to embrace the freedom and challenges that came with it. Including how when she started, she perhaps said ‘yes’ to too many things.
‘In the first few years, I said yes to everything. Even jobs I wasn’t sure about. But the more I said yes, the more opportunities came my way. The key is to just take that first step and work out how to make it work later.’
To be honest, I think most of us who start out in freelance work or as entrepreneurs often say yes to a lot of things and realise a bit later on we need to find balance. I can certainly relate however when Rebecca says that, by saying yes, she also had a chance to do many exciting projects.
The Role of Photography in Rebecca’s Career
When it comes to her freelance work, Rebecca understands the value of professional photography in both her food writing and acting careers. As a food writer, photography isn’t just an add-on—it’s essential to selling her work.
‘Photography is what sells the recipes I write. It’s the shop window for my work,’ Rebecca explained.
Rebecca spoke highly of working with photographers who understand her vision. She discussed her collaboration with various photographers who specialise in food photography, like Maya Smed, a photographer Rebecca has been working with for nearly two decades.
‘Maya’s work is amazing. The first time I worked with her, I was terrified. She’s very direct, but over the years, we’ve developed such a great working relationship. Her lighting is stunning, and I know the photos will be perfect every time.’
Sidenote: (I always enjoy speaking to fellow photographers so I’ve asked Beck’s to put me in touch with her).
Overcoming the Fear of Headshots
Despite working with photographers on multiple creative projects, Rebecca admitted that she still finds the idea of getting a headshot a bit daunting. As an actor, she knows how important it is to have a professional headshot, yet she’s not a fan of posing and feeling ‘directed’ in front of a camera.
‘I absolutely hate having straight-to-camera headshots taken. It’s like that scene from Friends where Chandler does his ridiculous face for wedding photos. I always feel like when someone points a camera at me, I freeze.’
Despite this fear, Rebecca shared how working with me on a shoot helped her feel more relaxed and at ease. We worked together to get past any fake and contrived poses towards some much more natural, warm shots.
‘You made it so easy for me. It wasn’t just about taking photos; it was about creating a space where I didn’t feel self-conscious. I could be myself. And the result? I actually liked the photos!’
Headshots for the Tenterden Operatic and Dramatic Society, featuring Rebecca Woollard
Feedback on Working with Chris
When I asked Rebecca about her experience working together, she was quick to share her thoughts on what makes working with a photographer so important:
‘You have to feel comfortable with the photographer. I’ve worked with really talented, award-winning photographers, but if there’s no chemistry, the photos don’t have the same energy. I love working with you because we get on really well, and I know you understand my vision.’
Rebecca also shared some feedback from the immersive theatre productions, specifically for the Moulin Rouge and After Midnight events. She said the feedback from the cast and audience was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting that the photos made the event feel professional and high-class.
‘People loved the photos from After Midnight. It really captured the atmosphere of an exclusive, private event, which was exactly what we were going for. And for that, I can’t thank you enough.’
First Talk was Fantastic!
It was such a pleasure chatting with Rebecca and hearing more about her journey as a freelancer, performer, and creative. Her advice about saying yes to opportunities and trusting the process really resonated, as difficult as it might be when starting out as an entrepreneur.
Rebecca, thank you for sharing your story with me, and I look forward to many more collaborations in the future!
If you're looking for professional headshots or just want to hear more about Rebecca's work, be sure to check out her social media and upcoming performances. And, as always, if you need a photographer, I’m here to help!
Click below to watch the full interview or catch some of the great pieces on my Instagram as well. Watch now: