Self Portraits
Every Photographers Starting Point
Welcome to This Week's Edition of The Carty Method Magazine!
This week, we challenged photographers to create a self-portrait.
It’s 2025, and what better way to kick off the year than by turning the lens inward?
Self-portraits are a vital practice for photographers.
They allow us to explore and express who we are behind the camera—the Creator, you.
Imagine this: You’ve built an incredible online presence with a stellar "About Me" section.
But if your audience doesn’t see you, how will your story truly resonate? A self-portrait can bridge that gap, helping photographers showcase their personal essence and strengthen the face of their brand.
Self-portraits don’t just tell a story; they build connection and reinforce the value you bring to your work.
Now, it’s time to see some stunning self-portraits created by amazing photographers this week!
Let’s dive in!
Assignment Brief
CARTY gives a tight brief at the end of his photo review shows which tells us shooters what we have to shoot exactly for the following weeks review.
Here is this assignment exactly how he shares it.
“This weeks Assignment: Self Portrait”.
2025 is going to be your year.
Create a self portrait that you can use in your Outward Reach Campaigns, Profile pics and website.
It should tell a story, be professional or portray your quirks.
This one image is how the world sees you."
Chris Foster
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
I thought about the story I wanted to tell all who see my self-portrait.
The visual I was going for is "I am a photographer" and I wanted viewers to see my subject (me) from my perspective from behind the camera.
I felt that for a self-portrait, the mirror was the best way to create that visual message.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
I've had more experience so far taking photos but not creating them.
This assignment made me go through the process of figuring out what story I wanted to tell and how to convey it in a single image.
After hearing Carty's critique, I'm super encouraged to keep pushing myself to grow and to use this creative approach for all of my images.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
This self-portrait is a physical manifestation of the change I've been wanting to make for several years.
I've dreamed about a career as a full-time photographer for years...
This portrait helped me state my intentions out loud visually.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I plan to use my self-portrait as the beginnings of my brand recognition campaigns and client outreach and communications.
It's already on my social media sites to help start that process.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
My tip would be to shoot it or at least practice your desired "look" in a mirror to be sure you convey the message you're intending with your self-portrait.
Don't forget to keep it fun!
It helps the real you come through.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: chrisfosterphotography
Facebook: chrisfosterphotography
Website: chrisfosterphotography.net
Danyel Van Kleef
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
I was going over some photo books I have from people like Avedon and had a feeling of a strong expression.
Combined with the energy of life's curveballs, creating some struggles I felt to hold my head in a way to express this, hence the pose I liked the colour of the shirt and the combo of the background.
Creating the palette to make it all combine it took me a while to make it fit, but then it was there I felt it might be a little dark, and as Carty pointed out, it could have had a bit more exposure.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
I really enjoy doing self-portraits, something that I was a little shy of before these days.
I do them more regularly; it's always a way of expressing some emotions that are present at that moment in this particular shoot.
I felt I could do more with my poses and using my arms and hands It gave me more confidence and ideas for more things to explore and also use with other people.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
Power, confidence, art, style, and expression That is what I feel it expresses and what I want to focus on.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I already had an idea for a video, talking more about my self-exploration by using self-portraits and learning techniques.
Such as posing and using lights, shadows and also props.
This last image is a good one to add to that and emphasize my work as a portrait photographer for individual work for people who want to express themselves more personally and with a connection.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Be yourself & explore your emotions play with them.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: danyelvankleef
Website: danyelvankleef.com
Joseph Baldwin
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
I wanted to create an opening image that feels both compelling and simple.
To achieve this, I positioned my light directly overhead, rather than using the traditional 45-degree angle.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
The Power of Simplicity.
On my first day shooting self-portraits, I noticed my rhythm was out of sync, and my creativity felt fleeting.
It had been a while since I set up my camera to capture myself, but this assignment reignited my focus on the process rather than the final result.
There’s a delicate dance between creativity and patience—one that requires persistence to craft an image that feels timeless.
Through flow and determination, I found inspiration in the journey itself.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
My self-portrait reflects a sense of maturity and security, qualities I strive to bring to every aspect of my work.
I want my clients and potential clients to know they’re working with a professional—someone who can make a meaningful difference and deliver valuable contributions through the art of photography.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I plan to use this image in a video about my self-portrait journey, exploring how self-portraits have profoundly impacted both my photography and personal life.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Give it an honest shot—it might feel uncomfortable at first, but the more you practice, the better you'll become at creating self-portraits.
Don’t be afraid to fail or experiment with your style and creativity.
Each attempt is a step toward growth and discovering your unique voice.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: jlbaldwin_
Website: jlbaldwin.com
Joshua Hoehne
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
This photo was done at a third photoshoot.
The earlier photoshoots were good.
But I found that I was either making a really silly face or being too serious.
For this photoshoot, I pumped myself up a little bit, had some nice music, and tried to be more expressive.
I really wanted to capture my kindness and warm-heartedness.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
Sometimes things take time.
Let the process happen.
Also, just because the earlier photos weren't great for this assignment, I think they can be used in other ways.
There was a story arc that played out in the three photoshoots and I'm interested in exploring that further.
Every self-portrait is a journey and I love how this turned out.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
I'm actually really excited for 2025 and love how this image helps set the stage.
I'm a fun and likable guy and love connecting with others.
This image helps reflect that.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I'm using for a profile photo on my socials, as well as it will be on my About Me page on my website.
As part of my newsletter, I will be using these 3 photoshoots to help tell my story and help others get to know me better.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Work through the shot.
Even if you think you have the perfect shot, keep going.
Push that envelope further and you will be amazed where your creativity will take you.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: joshua_hoehne
Facebook: Joshua Hoehne
LinkedIn: Joshua Hoehne
Substack: Joshua Hoehne
Website: Joshua Hoehne
Marco Novaes
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
I aimed for simplicity and impact.
Using just one light, I created an image that blurs the line between photography and drawing
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
It was my first time trying a setup like this, and when I checked the image on my camera screen.
I thought, "Wow, it actually works!”
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
This is me, definitely.
I strive to be recognized as someone who consistently seeks to break away from convention, embracing simplicity and authenticity in everything I do.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
This will definitely find a place on my website, and I’ll likely share a social media post to dive deeper into the process.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Capture the essence of who you are, beyond just your appearance, while staying true to yourself.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: clicksbymarco
Website: marconovaes.ca
Mike Morrisson
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
All of the portrait photographers in the community inspire and push me to a higher level.
As I've watched past submissions I've felt challenged to be on par with them.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
Every week I get better understanding lighting techniques and how best to use the equipment I have.
I enjoy creating highly focused images with a minimal background.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
I'm an automotive photographer first and foremost, but also shoot motorsports where I've learned capturing people behind the scenes, headshots, helmet shots, etc are highly sought after more so than the cars behind the drivers.
As such, I took the self-portrait very seriously as the skill can be applied shooting professional drivers.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I'll can use this as a profile pic and website contact pic.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Invest in and study lighting.
For this photo I used a Neewer 35" octagonal softbox with grid, a Godox SK400IIV as main, a Godox V860III for back light, a reflector, and a Sekonic L478D-U light meter.
Check out Carty's gear list on his website and I've added one to my website as well.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: morrisonautophotography
Behance: morrisonautophotography
Facebook: morrisonautophotography
Website: morrisonautophotography.com
Monika Petroczy
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
I live in Ventura, California which features two magnificent railroad bridges; I've always wanted to make a portrait there for someone local, particularly at golden hour.
I have one failed attempt in the past but now I know a bit more so I viewed this assignment as a test.
I also had color vibe going on with my hair/shirt.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
I needed a reflector or off camera flash to light me better but I didn't have the luxury of an assistant.
I think if I had allowed myself a little more time for this I could have figured out a way to rig one of these; always give yourself a little more time than you think that you need for setting up.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
That I'm here to support the people of my fair city and locality, and that I love dramatic graphic color.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I plan to use this photo on my website which I plan to revamp this week to feature portrait photography.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Get to know your remote app and bring a reflector or a friend to help!
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: mapgrrrrrl
Website: Monidesign.com
Nick Johnson
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
The last headshot I have on my website and LinkedIn were a self shot portrait I did during the pandemic.
I preach that people should update their headshots regular so I thought I should put my money where my mouth is!
My look hasn't changed much, but the world has changed, my career has changed, and certainly my outlook.
It was time for an update.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
Every time I do a self shot project, which isn't often, I am reminded of what a foreign feeling it is for the person on the other side of my lens.
I think if anything it helps me empathize with my subjects and improve my communication.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
I want them to see ME. Everywhere!
Well not really, that would be terrifying.
But as I am encouraging people to be more visible themselves, I hope to lead by example.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
Absolutely - that's exactly what I shot this for!
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Don't simply look at the surface of your front lens element - look THROUGH it, connect with something on the other side.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: nickjohnsonphoto
Website: nickjohnson.net
Rafael Ortiz
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
I've been wanting to use my vintage looking spotlight for over a year.
Thought it would match nicely with my two brown trunks.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
I learned that large glossy buttons reflect light.
I had to push them down to stop the reflection.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
Recycle old items or old looking items because they can be beautiful in a vintage way.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
Will use it in my about me page of my website (when I make it) and post it as my Facebook profile pic this Saturday on my birthday.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
I used a 42" TV as a monitor and a remote.
At first I would take a photo and then notice my clothing bunched up and then buttons reflecting.
When I adjusted one the other would need to be adjusted.
Sitting in the same spot and reviewing each frame and adjusting without getting up was a huge time saver.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: rafaelortizphotography
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Ana Kaya
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
I approached my self-portrait the same way I would a client portrait.
I prepared several outfits, brainstormed lighting ideas, and experimented with different backgrounds.
While I didn’t start with a fixed concept, my vision evolved organically during the session.
For inspiration, I explored the work of photographers known for self-portraits, paying close attention to their use of facial expressions and body language to convey emotion and presence.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
I made some surprising—and not always pleasant—discoveries!
The difference between my resting face and an engaging expression was more striking than I expected.
I had to consciously remind myself to stay aware of my expression throughout the shoot.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
This image represents my readiness to connect with new clients, build meaningful relationships, and help others achieve their goals.
It reflects my commitment to creating visuals that captivate and inspire.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I envision this image as the introduction to my portfolio on social media.
It’s a way to visually represent my brand and professionalism while making a personal connection with my audience.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Treat yourself as you would treat a client—be kind, patient, and flexible.
Allow yourself room to experiment and grow during the process.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: akphotography.2020
Daveed Holmes
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
My creative process for this self image was to go darker than my normal work.
I usually photograph dancers, musicians, and artists with dominating colors, especially from the Afro-Latin culture.
This time, I wanted this to be more Black and gray to focus more on the shadows and left them tell a dramatic story.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
I learned that it is ok to be vulnerable and you can do so while being strong.
Also, being joyous and serious can coincide, and time spent working on your craft teaches and develops you.
What we work on works on us.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
I am a believer in God and Light was the first thing He created that he said was good.
He also said it was good when He created people, but that it is not good for us to be alone.
Photography at the beginning level can be lonely.
However, when we excel, we meet people that help us along the way.
This coincides with my vision: I photograph Real People, in Real Time, so Their Impact Lasts Lifetimes.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I have uploaded this image to all of my main pages and have gotten a great response already.
I will use this to show people that I am open and inviting, yet can be clear and assertive.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
I would tell someone that there is a different setup between self portraits and selfies!
We are so used to pulling out our phones and snapping a photo, that setting up lights, having our camera on a timer, and making sure the focus is on point can be daunting.
I would tell people to get a prop that has wording on it that is roughly your height so when you set your focus, you will be in focus.
The word of the day is patience because rarely will you get the first image right.
Give yourself time to relax, and embrace the camera.
It also helps us see what photography is like on the other side of the lens.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: apertrue_photography
Facebook: Daveed Holmes
LinkedIn: Daveed Holmes
Website: apertrue_photography.com
Mats Karlsson
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
The photo is intended to use for reach out to potential customers and for that reason, it was important to me to give the viewer a true picture of myself - to get a picture that felt honest and welcoming when I looked at it.
Inspiration came from various photos with photographers holding their camera. I used my phone that I use to trigger my camera.
It's kind of a twist on the camera holding pictures.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
To do a natural expression on photo can be difficult. Personally, I tend to look a bit angry when relaxed, even though I am not.
I am actually a positive and happy guy, so realizing what signals I send to others is important.
I have been aware of this for a long time, but I realized how hard it can be to get a neutral and inviting look in front of the camera, without smiling too much.
It took a lot of shots to get something that I felt happy with.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
I want it to send a message of kindness, seriosity and respect for each other.
I am here to help when you need me.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I can see this picture come to use when reaching out to potential customers.
The format is a bit limiting for profile pictures, so I think the website would be the place to put it.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
I use to think about someone I really care about when looking into the camera.
That works for me to get a natural and caring look.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: matskarlssonphotography
Substack: matskarlssonphotography
Website: matskarlssonphotography.com
Sean Thomas
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
I looked at previous The Carty Method self portrait assignments from the past.
The concept was inspired by Benja's self portrait with the coloured light in the background.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
I'm starting to realize I actually CAN shoot people..lol.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
I want the world to see me.
My goal for 2025 is to stop hiding behind my brand/work.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I plan to use this as profile pictures and on my website.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
Just do it.....get in front of that camera.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: autoluximagery
Substack: autoluximagery
Website: autoluximagery.com
Tia Dunlap
Can you walk us through your creative process for this self-portrait? What inspired the concept behind your image?
When creating my self-portrait I wanted the picture to be clean and the backdrop to be more subdued.
I chose the gray backdrop because to me it is a strong color and gives the picture a more bold feel.
I wanted to make the process as simple as possible.
I started by taking a few pictures at a time.
I would then review the pictures checking the lighting, my outfit, hair and poses.
Once I finished reviewing the pictures I would take a few more pictures to make any changes necessary and start the process again.
I also took lots of breaks so I did not stress myself out during this process.
What’s something new you discovered about yourself or your creative approach while working on this assignment?
I learned that I was making the process of making a picture a lot harder by not using a light meter.
By creating my self portrait, I made it a point to finally learn how to use the light meter that has been sitting in my desk drawer for about five years.
I always gave up learning the light meter because it was to hard for me to figure out.
Through this process I made it a point to spend the entire week learning the light meter.
How does your self-portrait reflect the story you want the world to see in 2025?
I feel that my picture reflects strength, professionalism and shows someone who takes their business seriously.
I feel it shows me as someone who is approachable and will provide you with quality service.
How do you plan to use this self-portrait in your Outward Reach Campaigns, profile pictures, or website?
I plan to use my self-portrait as my profile picture on my website and social media pages.
If you could give one tip to someone else working on a self-portrait, what would it be?
My one tip would be to take your time and don’t rush the process.
Take lots of pictures and lots of different poses so you will have a variety of looks to choose from.
Also, have fun with it and try not to stress yourself to much.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: tiamashonephotography
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Carty is a Pro Photographer, Director, and Educator based in Toronto, CA.
His goal is to educate and connect a global network of visual creators.
👉🏾 Mindset Shifts and Immersive Pro Education on YouTube 👈🏾
Learn more about him and see his work at 👉🏾 SteveCarty.com
Join his photographer’s community 👉🏾 TheCartyMethod.com/community
Work with Him 👉🏾 theCartyMethod.com
The Carty Method Instagram @TheCartyMethod
REALLY NICE!!! LoVE the portraits and interview combo - nice image size to feel the 'presence' of the image/portrait. Loved the email format which inspired me to share some foto geek gratitude! Im not one whose embraced 'selfies' much less self portraiture - a good self assignment. Thank you CARTY CREW!