"I used to own a vintage-clothing company and was on the verge of opening a Manhattan store, but for some reason it wasn't feeling quite right," Gorenstein says. "I told her of my plans and doubts, to which she made a simple comment that changed the direction of my life: 'Doug, at heart you are a creative person, and creative people need creative ways to make a living.' Ellen's poignant advice led me to photography, and the rest, I guess you can say, is headshot history."
Gorenstein has photographed actors such as Josh Sussman, Mindy Kaling, Michael J. Burg, Alana De La Garza, Seth Gabel, Jason Tam, Troy Metcalf, Jeff McCarthy, Tina Maddigan, and Natalie Cortez. He asks actors to set aside three hours for their sessions, but he's willing to take as long as needed to make sure he gets the right shots.
"Every actor is unique," Gorenstein says. "I ask lots of questions to get to know them both as a person and performer, then tailor the shoot to achieve their specific marketing needs. During the session, I give specific direction to capture headshots that are genuine and eye-catching." He also wants his subjects to do some prep work of their own: "I ask my headshot clients to treat themselves exceptionally well in the days leading up to their session and to follow the preparation and clothing advice on my website."
Says Back Stage reader Jennifer Kalman, "He does fabulous work. He has a very good eye for detail. He's creative and makes it work."
As for his professional philosophy, Gorenstein says, "A great headshot captures your personality, is natural in style, and shows you looking your best." He adds, "You are the star, and my job is to capture what is special about you."
Douglas Gorenstein, 315 W. 39th St., Suite 1308, New York; (212) 967-2810; www.douglasgorenstein.com
Gorenstein was the Readers' Choice winner in this category in 2010.
Runners-Up:
- Dennis Kwan, (401) 837-0981, www.dkheadshots.com
- Barry Morgenstein, (212) 647-1288, www.barrymorgenstein.com
- Sam Khan, Image Works, (212) 873-2305, www.imageworksnyc.com