Hannah Heinrich
Hannah Heinrich
Photographer / Art Director, Founder of Hannah Heinrich Photography
Silver Lake, Los Angeles, CA
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I’m a “Slashie” artist, to quote Zoolander... ”
My origin is in film, but over the years I've concentrated on the commercial photography and advertising side of digital marketing and e-commerce for high profile fashion brands. That means I take products and make them look so good, everyone wants to buy them. I've helped many start ups to develop creative for fledgling e-commerce brands large and small. I am equipped with a small in house stills studio for work and collaboration.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I started as an assistant photographer at Saks Fifth Avenue, learning from a generation of photographers who worked with film and Poloroid. I watched and learned from some of the greats and over the course of 5 years I moved up the ranks to be an on staff photographer. Saks was not only where I learned the bulk of my studio and lighting work, but I also learned a great deal from the stills stylists on editorial sets. I often style an abundance of my own sets for editorial tests, and even some of my clients. After Saks I worked full time for Net-a-Porter, and then Nautica Jeans Co. before embarking as a freelance photographer.
How do you stand out in your field?
My work is vibrant, whimsical, and crisp. I am a positive and forward thinking person and I like that to come across in my work. I meet a challenge with grace and diligence which is why I attract such a strong group of talented and like minded professionals.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I'm working on a paper project based on the Star Wars Saga characters (I'm a nerd at heart, and I like to combine work and play). I am also testing some creative content for the oatmeal company MLYK LABS.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
I like crisp, direct images that make an impact and tell a story. That doesn't always have to be bold and bright. Even quiet images can be powerful.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
Like I mentioned, I'm a nerd at heart; So my dream would be to work for a gaming or entertainment company. I love storytelling, so I'm big into product stories for some of the more pedestrian products like Ketchup, or Multi-Vitamins, even nail polish. I support a healthy lifestyle, so I'm often drawn to Athletic or Beauty brands. I also enjoy working with Sustainable companies.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
My biggest caveat with this industry is fitting into a checked box. I like to shoot, style, retouch, edit, direct, tech, produce, assist, and I don't have big head about it. It can be hard to fit into a particular style of work because I like to do it all, and I do it well. I sometimes think this industry frowns upon a jack of all trades.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Collaborate. I love my assistants to be a part of the creative process. I'm always talk through my process on set, because sometimes I might get ideas from the people I'm working with no matter where they are on the totem pole.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Attend a state school! Sometimes a private school education isn't worth the hype and money. I have drive and passion for my trade and I would have excelled anywhere.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Graphic Design, and motion. I'd love to have a more granular knowledge about typography and graphics and its origins. Additionally more time to dive deep into some editing software to compose more complex motion edits.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
I'm looking to shoot and direct creative concepts for commercial brands. Content Creation is where I excel. I'm drawn to private companies with single product categories like shoes, handbags, vitamins, beauty products, home goods and fashion apparel. I'd love to break out of fashion into more gaming, entertainment or food related fields.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
I'd like to work with sustainable fashion companies, or brands that have a more eco-friendly approach. Brands and Companies that work to better the communities they live in is also a big draw.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
My rate is entirely dependent on the scope of work. E-Commerce and Social Content is generally a flat rate depending on the amount of product or assets. Commercial work typically depends on the use-case for the images, and how they will need to be licensed for the client. There is NO project to great or small.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Email is best. Include as much information about the project as possible.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
I cook, I bake, I draw!
This member profile was originally published in April 2020.