The author portrait is an art all its own. I’ve been art director and senior photographer at January Magazine since 1997. One of the things I’ve been called upon to do there is photograph some of the best known authors in the business.

Author portraits are arguably more challenging than portraits of regular humans simply because, by their work and nature, authors tend to be solitary creatures who avoid the camera when possible. Getting the best from them can be a challenge, which is one of the reasons I’m proud that my work with authors has been used not only in January Magazine, but in magazines and newspapers around the world.

The time to start thinking about a new author photo is quite often as soon as you sign a contract for a new book. Once the work is in production, things can begin to move very quickly, so it’s best to have strong photographs in hand when your publisher starts asking for something. It’s also good to have different images ready to offer the media to accompany reviews and interviews. Especially in these times of economic cutbacks, the author who has great press materials at their fingertips will often be the one who manages to get a bit more media attention because they’ve already taken on part of the job themselves, making it easier for busy and overworked journalists and art directors to do their job.

Not an author? But don't be put off by the familiar faces of your favorite literary icons: we also do corporate headshots and portraiture.

Your session will take about an hour, will cost $250. and include up to two different looks. Please bring the clothes you’d like to be photographed in. When you choose them, be sure that you feel terrific in them. Your comfort and confidence will translate to the camera. Hair and make-up can be arranged at additional cost.

After your session, I’ll make selects of the images created at your session. Within a few days, you’ll get no less than ten and no more than 40 images -- either on a disc or via e-mail, your choice. From these you may select two that will be lightly retouched and adjusted to enhance the best you to current industry standards.

In a rush? Depending on my schedule, faster turnaround may be available. However, there is an additional charge for rush service. Please ask about this when you book your session.

Ready to schedule your session? Call 604-716-9064. If you prefer, you can schedule via e-mail.

The photographs and artwork on this Web site are all © David Middleton 2012 and may not be used without the written permission of the artist.