Meet Lex Kilgour

We recently connected with Lex Kilgour and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Lex, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.

Honestly, I’m not sure I have! And, in small doses, I’m okay with it. Have you watched Reshma Saujani’s speech to the 2023 class of Smith College? She’ll tell you that “imposter syndrome” isn’t real – it’s just a scheme designed to hold us back. And hold us back it does! I definitely go through bouts of feeling like my work doesn’t measure up; that I’m better focusing on a job that pays the bills; that if I haven’t made it by now: What am I doing? But, on the other hand, some of my greatest images have come from the most challenging shoots.

I had a grueling 4-day branding shoot in Montana last year: Flight delays resulted in 23 hrs of traveling and very little sleep on the airport floor. I was in locations I’d not scouted ahead of time and we were constantly racing against the light, from sunrise to sunset. The creative concept was incredible but the pressure to execute, under the circumstances, felt high. I didn’t want to let my client down. Fast forward five months and images from that shoot were recently featured in Vogue UK, Glamour UK, and Conde Nast Traveller!

You just don’t know where each experience in your journey will take you, so even if you’re feeling like an imposter, keep going!

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m a portrait and branding photographer, with a focus on cinematic storytelling. I love the creative process that happens leading up to a shoot just as much as the editing process in post. I like to work closely with my clients to develop an aesthetic we can both be excited about. Building a mood board, pulling ideas from different mediums, like art and film, and making sure we’re on the same page throughout the creative process really fuels me as an artist. Collaboration and trust are key.

My background is in event photography so, often with my couples and portrait clients, I take a more documentary style approach to my shoots. I always give feedback and encouragement during my sessions as I want my clients to feel at ease; but with the creative vision in place, I like to let the session unfold organically. I want to capture those little nuanced moments that are unique to my subject: How light shapes their face while in thought, or the way they crack a smile when they’re nervous… So often we don’t think we can be photographed but I especially like to surprise my clients with those kinds of candids. It’s all worthy of being captured.

Right now, when I’m not producing product photography and videography for my main client’s brand, I’m focused on “day in the life” shoots, especially with my couples. From morning snuggles, or coffee in the kitchen, to walking the dog and cooking together. It’s a real privilege to document those private moments. Big creative shoots are always a thrill, and I love sinking my teeth into bold, high concept work a few times a year; but sometimes real life can be just as profound and inspiring!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

I always excelled in art and had an eye for color and composition when I was a kid. Leaning into the skills that come naturally to you will inform your work and serve you well. You don’t have to do it like anyone else but yourself.

Don’t be afraid to be a beginner, at any point in your career. You’re never going to know everything, and being humble and kind to yourself, and open to learning from others will keep things interesting and help you persevere.

Take inspiration from everywhere! Take notes, keep a folder on your phone or laptop, sketch it out, etc. Sometimes you’ll be able to build off of it right away, and other times that spark will evolve into something even cooler years down the line. I have a spiral-bound notebook that I’m always jotting things down in. When I’m in a rut it’s a lot of fun to look through and get re-inspired!

If you’re early in your journey as a photographer: just start. Stop planning or waiting for the right moment, to have completed that course, or whatever. You’ll always learn more from doing. Go for a walk and start framing things with your camera. Developing your eye takes time and practice, so just get out there and see what grabs you. Finding another photographer’s work you really like and trying to emulate their style can also be a great way to learn and build confidence. If you’ve been in this industry for a while and you’ve hit a wall: just start, again. I also find that getting out into nature helps. Quiet the noise and trust yourself.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I am always looking for collaborative opportunities, especially with those in set and costume design for my big creative shoots. I have a huge vintage collection and a long list of ideas (think bold colors, high contrast, editorial style) that I would love to bring to life with the right team! If this is you: the best way to reach me is through my website contact form: www.lexkilgour.com or social media: @flexandbender

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lexkilgour.com
• Instagram: @flexandbeder