We recently connected with Ben McDonnell and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ben, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
Developing confidence and self-esteem is a journey that often involves a combination of experiences, self-reflection, and personal growth. In essence, not caring what others think of you is a powerful shift toward self-confidence. It’s about realizing that your self-worth is independent of external judgments and embracing your authentic self. I find people often give up on their dreams due to judgement placed on them by someone else. A quote that has always stuck out to me is “Don’t let someone who gave up on their dreams, talk you out of yours.” I really think we are capable of doing anything we can envision.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a dedicated photographer and a working actor, my passion lies in capturing the essence of life’s moments through the art of photography. What sets my work apart is the unique perspective I bring, grounded in a deep understanding of the power of visuals in the entertainment industry.
What excites me the most about my dual roles is the ability to connect with clients on a profound level, drawing from my experiences as an actor. Whether it’s through headshots that reveal the authenticity of an actor’s personality or event photography that preserves the joy of a special occasion, I am thrilled to be a part of these memorable moments. My photography isn’t about mere documentation; it’s about crafting visual narratives that transport us back to the emotions, connections, and beauty of those times.
I want people to know that my brand is built on authenticity, passion, and a commitment to excellence, both as a photographer and an actor. When you choose my services, you’re not just getting photographs; you’re investing in visual stories that speak to the heart of the human experience and the entertainment industry. Whether you’re an actor looking to stand out in a competitive field or you’re celebrating a special event, my work is tailored to capture the uniqueness of each individual and the significance of every moment, all informed by my experiences as a fellow actor.
I’m particularly proud of the connections I’ve built with my clients and the stories we’ve created together. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the joy, confidence, and nostalgia that my photography brings to people’s lives. My work is more than a profession; it’s a passion, a journey, and a testament to the beauty of moments that matter in both the world of photography and acting.
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?
To succeed in photography and acting, focus on being creative, mastering the technical aspects, and staying resilient. Nurture your creativity by trying new things and learning from others, work on getting really good at the technical stuff, and don’t give up when things get tough. Find mentors, make friends in the industry, and keep learning. Remember, it’s your journey, so embrace every experience and never stop improving.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely, I’m always open to new collaborations and partnerships! I’m interested in collaborating with fellow photographers, actors, creative artists, event planners, and individuals or organizations in need of photography services. Whether it’s a joint project, a creative collaboration, or working together to capture meaningful moments, I’m eager to explore opportunities with like-minded individuals and professionals. If you’re reading this and interested in collaborating, please feel free to reach out to me via email or through my website www.BenjaminMcDonnell.com, and let’s start a conversation about how we can create something remarkable together.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.BenjaminMcDonnell.com
- Instagram: @BenjaminMcDonnellPhotos
- Facebook: @BenjaminMcDonnellPhotos
Image Credits
All photos by Benjamin McDonnell Photography
