We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Drew Herrmann. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Drew below.
Drew, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is something I think many of us face. Those thoughts, “Am I ready for a job of this caliber?” or “Do I really have the talent to be here?” They creep in more often than I’d like to admit.
But I’ve come to see these feelings not as a limitation, but as a reflection of how far I’ve come. I remind myself daily how fortunate I am to work in an industry I’m so passionate about. That gratitude fuels me to keep growing, learning, and giving my best.
In a way, imposter syndrome is a kind of blessing. It’s a sign that I’ve worked hard enough to reach a place I once only dreamed of. It pushes me to stay humble, to trust in my craft, and to remember that talent isn’t just about where you are now, it’s about the journey of continual improvement.
At the end of the day, I remind myself: I am here for a reason. And that reason is the hard work, passion, and creativity I bring to every project.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My name is Drew Herrmann, and I’m a photographer based in Los Angeles. I grew up in a small town nestled in the foothills of Tahoe, where my love for photography first took root. Inspired by the timeless works of Ansel Adams and Edward Weston, my earliest photographs were landscapes that reflected the natural beauty around me.
My passion for photography wasn’t an instant spark, it was a slow burn. It began in high school, where I initially signed up for photography class because it was rumored to be an easy A. Little did I know it would ignite a journey that would shape my life. I excelled in that class and was fortunate to have a few teachers who recognized my potential and encouraged me to keep learning.
After high school, I attended a community college with an outstanding photography department. There, I met incredible instructors and peers who pushed me to expand my skills and vision. Eager to grow further, I transferred to Cal Poly on the central coast, where I majored in photography and immersed myself in the craft.
Throughout my education, I couldn’t get enough—I had an insatiable hunger for knowledge and a drive to refine my skills. This passion eventually led me south to Los Angeles, where, with the help of an alum, I began working as a digital tech. It was my entry point into the high-end world of professional photography, and I was in awe.
Working on entertainment and celebrity sets, alongside some of the most talented people in the industry, fueled my growth as both an artist and a professional. The experience deepened my understanding of the craft and amplified my passion.
Over time, I found myself shooting more and more, transitioning from a digital tech to a photographer. Today, I’m proud to call myself a celebrity and entertainment photographer. While it feels like a lifetime away from my beginnings in the foothills of Tahoe, the journey has been both humbling and rewarding.
The work never stops, there’s always more to learn, more ways to grow, and more dream projects I’m striving to bring to life. And that’s what keeps me inspired every day.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I know some might have different perspectives on what it takes to succeed in photography, but these are the traits that give me my edge:
1. A constant drive to improve. Whether it’s perfecting lighting setups, fine-tuning color profiles, or experimenting with new techniques, I’m always tinkering to make things better. Progress is built on that relentless pursuit of growth.
2. Being a people person. Photography isn’t just about the technical side; it’s about connection. You need to be able to lead and inspire groups of people from all walks of life. The way you communicate and make people feel can make or break opportunities in this industry.
3. Maintaining passion for the craft. I’ll never “mail it in.” Every project, no matter how big or small, deserves my full effort and creativity. Passion is what keeps the work fresh and fulfilling.
For anyone early in their career, you’re likely already hungry and that’s a great place to start. The challenge is holding onto that hunger even when things don’t go as planned. Avoid the temptation to take shortcuts. Instead, truly immerse yourself in the craft. Master the fundamentals, challenge yourself with every project, and trust that consistent hard work will pave the way.
There’s no magic formula or easy route. Success comes from showing up, putting in the work, and committing to growth every step of the way.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
In no way would I say, “Ive made it.” This career is an ongoing journey. One of the biggest challenges I face is continuously finding work, particularly the caliber of projects I aspire to. In the entertainment world, breaking in as a newer photographer can be tough, and getting your foot in the door with different companies requires persistence.
To overcome this, I focus on building genuine connections and networking with the right people. I understand that part of the process is a numbers game, and while I’m always looking to improve in that area, I also try to stand out by putting out personal work that reflects my style and staying visible in the industry.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to navigating this field, but I embrace the challenge. Whether it’s experimenting with new approaches or refining my strategy, I’m constantly learning and evolving. For me, every step forward is part of the bigger journey toward the career I envision.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://DREWHERRMANN.COM
- Instagram: drew_herrmann
- Linkedin: Drew Herrmann
Image Credits
Drew Herrmann
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