Testimonials

  • “Ben is the best in the business, with a keen eye to capture the right moments. I recommend him to everyone!"

    -Stacye Mayer (Entertainment talent agent/ coach)

  • “Ben does a fantastic job working with our clients at Actors Connection. Besides being a super-nice guy, Ben understands what actors need in today's market, and his work is affordable. Thanks, Ben! A+."

    -Tony Nation (Partner, Actors Connection and President, Reproductions)

  • “Ben Esner is one of the only photographers I recommend that actors shoot with in NYC. His keen eye for capturing exactly at each individual actor needs in order to “fly off the shelves” is unparalleled. Ben is a consummate professional and a joy to work with.”

    -Jen Rudolph (Creator of the 2% Signature System & The Actors Green Room)

  • “If you're an actor and are looking for a headshot photographer who is intutive, has a great eye and understanding of what the industry needs from a headshot, Ben is your guy! I had my first session with him and he was such a wonderful collaborator. He was very personable and laid-back yet professional. I think because he has an acting background he understands what the process is like for us and how to help us do more than just stand there and try to look good. He coached me throughout the shoot in a way that was like working with a director on a film. We took shots on his roof, on the streets and then out in an industrial looking alley. It was cold as hell but his energy and professionalism made the shoot feel like a breeze. It makes such a difference when you can tell that the photographer is working to understand you and to find ways to capture what he's learning frame by frame. Do yourself a favor and connect with him for your next shoot.”

    -Brian Michael Smith (911: Lone Star)

  • "Ben is a natural-born photographer. He's got such a gift for light and mood. He seeks out moments others wouldn't. His pictures 'say something' but never too loudly. I highly recommend Ben. I couldn't be happier with my headshots." CARDINAL)

    -Greg Pierce (Playwright - KID VICTORY, HER REQUIEM, SLOWGIRL, THE LANDING,

  • “I had an absolutely fabulous experience having my actor headshots done by Ben Esner. Headshots make me anxious; I always worry I'll end up looking like something other than who I am. But Ben was great; we talked ahead of time about what looks I needed and he and his wonderful makeup artist went through my wardrobe options the day of the shoot and found exactly what would look best. The shoot itself was relaxed and fun; I was sorry when it was over. And the photos are lovely; he definitely captured what makes me, me, and best of all, he got oodles of good smiling shots, which I can find challenging. A wonderful photographer; highly recommend him.”

    -Nicole Greevy

  • “I loved working with Ben! From the first moment, it was a fun and super easy experience. He "got" me and knew exactly what we needed to accomplish together. The whole day was a blast and I can't wait to go back to him when I need to add some shots!”

    -Taylor Graves

  • “What a fantastic experience having headshots done by Ben! Brilliantly professional, fun and laid back, he really listened and got the vibe I was looking for. I would recommend Ben 100%.”

    -Rebecca Faulkner

  • “Working with Ben was a DREAM! He totally understand my entry points and what was not working from previous headshot shoots. My new shots are totally on point and I am already getting more auditions. The first day I put up my new headshot I booked a role for a commercial just from a photo. Thank you so much!”

    -Lauren Pepin

  • “Ben rocks! He will get you that gritty NYC vibe of a headshot. He totally captured all of my entry points! :)”

    -Paul Mauriello

  • “I had a great experience working with Ben and I was super happy with how my headshots turned out! His HMU artist that day was also incredible.”

    -Eileen Noonan

  • “Ben is AMAZING!!! So so talented and wonderful to work with. I couldn’t be happier with my headshots!! THANKS BEN!!”

    -Ilana DeAngelo

  • “Acting in New York City for over six years now, I did not have a clear idea of what industry standard headshots were until I shot with Ben. I have shot with five other photographers, spending anywhere from nothing to way too much money for an actor's headshots. Ben is the right price, and knows how to take a shot that looks like YOU, not overly glamorized, which is what the NYC market is looking for right now! I could see myself on a show, which for me, was an incredibly inspiring experience to have during a headshot session. I would highly recommend Ben Esner for your next headshot session."

    -Claire Ganshert

  • “I’ve worked with many photographers in the past, but only Ben was able to capture exactly what I had always wanted: a natural looking photo that shows my true essence and that captures attention. My agent and manager LOVE my photos, and we actually had a tough time narrowing them down because SO MANY were right on the money! I think it’s not only Ben’s expertise in headshot photography, but also his experience as an actor and his open and genuine personality, that generate the successful photo shoots. I’d recommend him in a heartbeat.”

    -Anna Lakomy

  • “Ben Esner was recommended to me by a colleague. I sought head shots when I decided to return to acting after retiring from another career. It had been about 40 years since I was in front of a camera. Ben put me at ease, gently helped with useful creative prompts and made the experience truly enjoyable. I think the results reflect Ben's skill and intuitive connection with his subjects. I heartily recommend him to anyone, whether you are an experienced model or are new to the potentially self-conscious-making process of having one's picture taken. I will certainly be asking him to take my picture again.”

    -Gil Cole

  • "I've never worked with such an intuitive and enthusiastic photographer. He was generous with his energy and positivity as well as with his honesty and approachability. I actually enjoyed having my headshots taken!! I never felt that he was trying to put me at ease or to make me feel comfortable, he just did. His instincts with and without the camera pointing at me worked, and this camera-shy actor had over 20 "favorite" shots to choose from, a far cry from the 1 or 2 I've liked from past shoots. If you're looking for shots that capture you at ease and in your essence, then call Ben Esner."

    -Jessica Kahler

  • “As soon as I contacted Ben to discuss possibly working together on updated headshots I knew that this was a knowledgeable and professional person. Ben not only answered all of my questions and concerns but he was kind and made the entire experience fun and completely free of stress. Jen did an amazing job with my hair and makeup which involved several very different looks. I highly recommend Ben if you are looking for professional headshots and a photographer that will work together with you to get the results that you want. Thank you Ben!!”

    -Lynda Malerba

  • “Ben Esner will help you with getting an amazing headshot. He'll work with you on payment plans, what to wear, and even offers a stylist who will help you look your very best for your headshot goals. Ben shoots both indoor and outdoor, providing you a full range of different spots that help with storytelling. Ben is great for not only actor headshots, but corporate as well. Book with Ben Esner today!”

    -Julian Class

  • “I had an amazing time working with Ben. His open and relaxed nature put me instantly at ease and allowed me to laugh and be comfortable in front of the camera. His professionalism and talented eye helped coach me throughout the shoot so I never felt forced to awkwardly pose like I have in the past. He truly knew how to get the most honest pictures out of me and everyone who has seen my pictures agrees! I will gladly recommend Ben to all of my friends and anyone who will listen!”

    -Amber Lageman

  • “Ben is passionate about his work and has a very good eye in capturing the uniqueness of his subjects. I had a ball in our session, he made me feel so relaxed. He is good enough to give direction only when direction is needed. Ben is wonderful to work with and a real pro.”

    -Thomas Benton

  • “Ben brought a fun and relaxed feel to the shoot all the while remaining very professional. He listens to the looks you want then makes them better than you imagined. Agents and Producers love his work and the headshots he took for me have helped me get interviews. Ten out of ten!”

    - Anthony LaJoye

  • "The headshots I took with Ben are the first headshots that I'm truly happy with. Ben's way of working is simple, making just being yourself really easy."

    -Evan Roufeh

  • “Ben is an absolute pleasure to work with. Consummate professionalism coupled with a great attention to detail and knowledge of his craft creates a stable working environment that is conducive to producing great shots. He works fast and thoroughly and his pictures really speak for themselves.”

    -Miller Lulow

  • “Ben is a gifted photographer with an eye for the perfect shot. He is a true professional and I would highly recommend him for a competitive and unique headshot.”

    -Bari Kane

  • “The pictures I got from a shoot with Ben are the ones I've been looking for for a very long time. He helps you escape your preconceived notions of what you think your pictures should look like. Then he helps you discover the inner passion and excitement you have for your art which effectively translates into your pictures.”

    -Kelly Kirkley

  • "Ben is incredibly talented and a joy to work with. I was completely calm and relaxed throughout the entire process, never feeling rushed or anxious. And most importantly, Ben made me laugh which is always a bonus when working with a photographer."

    -Cadden Jones

  • “I highly recommend Ben to anyone looking for creative headshots. He's patient, thorough and easy to work with. And the shoot was fun!”

    -Bill McCarthy

  • “Mr. Esner's experience & professionalism created one of the most enjoyable headshot sessions I've ever had, and higher quality shots than I've ever received from other photographers. His ability to create a fun & safe environment is coupled with a unique and creative eye that showcases & captures each aspect of his subject's talent. I would absolutely recommend Mr. Esner to anyone looking to update their headshot or portfolio.”

    -E. Calvin Ahn

  • "I have never liked getting headshots. I always feel plastic, in a fake pose with an even faker smile. I hated doing them. Ben changed all that though. Completely disarming and amicable, he got me off my guard almost immediately- and it showed in the photos. We worked to get the outfits that would show me off best. If you're not a 'picture person', give Ben a call. You won't regret it."

    -Logan Keeler

  • "It was an absolute pleasure doing my very first headshots with Ben. The shots came out exactly how I hoped they would. For my next round of headshots, there's no doubt I'll be going back to him!"

    -Chris Nyktas

  • "As a professional in NYC, I've had a few headshots taken for work positions and LinkedIn. Within minutes of working with Ben (both prep and the shoot itself), it was clear he was 'a cut above'. Beyond constructive coaching, his friendly demeanor fostered both comfort and confidence to pull the best shot out of me. It was such a joy working with Ben that I kind of just want to hang with him on a social basis. I highly recommend being prepped by Ben's makeup stylist prior to your shoot. She made me look more well-complexed, rested, and made sure my hair was in place. From 'soup to nuts',Ben and his team did an outstanding job and I was extremely pleased with my result."

    -John Paul Cisneros

  • "My experience shooting with Ben Esner was fantastic in every way. He was professional and communicative and asked intelligent, thoughtful questions during our first meeting. His questions and expertise guided me to making great choices about how I wanted my wardrobe to look. While shooting, he was calm and a fantastic director, expertly guiding me towards a great shot. Hair and make-up artist did an amazing job, and their collaborative rapport set the stage for a supportive, productive and fun shoot. Ben knows the business and his background as an actor is truly helpful. He's affordable and amazing and I'd recommend him to anyone looking for great pictures. I'm truly happy with how mine came out - the only hard part is choosing which ones!"

    -Jill Frutkin

  • “I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Ben. We had a terrific session and I'm still using the photos we took. I'm looking forward to using him again in the future."

    -Kevin Conroy

  • “Ben Esner is the guy you call when you're ready. Ready for what? Ready to get headshots that will get you to the next level. How does he do it? He has this uncanny knack for immediately understanding your type. He's easy to work with, super friendly and is able to create a comfortable environment for you to shine when he is snapping away with his camera. I highly recommend this man, but only if you are ready."

    -Kazy Tauginas

  • "I have been involved in casting for 2 decades, and have been referring all my actor friends/clients to Ben for years. He understands what we look for in a photo: natural, engaging. and most of all, looks like the person who walks through the door. I believe his background as a working actor goes a long way in capturing the right look. Plus he is easy going and affordable! Let Ben bring out the best of you to help open the doors to casting directors and producers."

    -Steve Becker (Director, Writer, Producer - BRAZZY JAZZY, LANDLOCKED, TOMPKINS SQUARE TRIANGLES)

  • "You know you have a good headshot when industry professionals frequently state "These are great - who did your headshots?" This is the second time I've used Ben Esner for headshots and the results have been outstanding each time. Not only am I very satisfied with the finished product but the actual process is a great experience. Ben is very easy to work with and provides a great balance of both listening to your ideas and giving you his advice. And to top it off, his prices are affordable. I highly recommend."

    -Zoltan Nagy

  • “We highly recommend Ben as a photographer! My daughter's headshots for her Musical Theatre College Auditions were amazing. He is professional and has an excellent eye when working with his clients. Thank you Ben! Picture Perfect."

    -Cynthia Deen

  • "I loved shooting with Ben, he was so relaxed and fun to work with, but also professional and thorough. He takes the time to pay attention to detail as well as get a great variety of good shots. What sets him apart from other photographers is that he really cares about the actor and what he's capturing rather than just getting a good shot and calling it a day. He is really excellent at what he does, and I'd highly recommend him to anyone!"

    -Maria Pedro

  • "I have had dozens of headshots over the years and I think the ones that Ben took are by far the best. He really captured me. The cost was a bargain when measured against my satisfaction. Ben was able to work within my time constraints for a very efficient shooting session and the response to the shot has been incredibly favorable. He got me to quickly relax and be myself. Just a super enjoyable experience."

    – Debra Borchardt (Co-founder & Executive Editor of Green Market Report)

  • "Shooting with Ben was a dream come true. He was able to listen to what I wanted, assess what I needed, and translate everything into beautiful photos that truly capture me in a way no other photographer has before. I couldn't have been happier with the shoot, or with how the photos turned out, and I can't recommend him enough. After having spent thousands of dollars on headshots that were never quite right, Ben is a first-rate photographer at a fraction of the price. I can't wait to shoot with him again."

    -Jenn Kent

  • "Ben is a true professional and a very cool guy. He is easy to get along with and will not stop until he gets the perfect shots that bring out your essence. The head shots I received from Ben are a world away from my previous photos, well worth the investment."

    -James Duffy

  • "I had a blast shooting with Ben. He made me feel so at ease that I could just relax and be myself and not even notice the camera. The results were natural, beautiful pictures with a soul that captured the real me."

    -Nasreen Rahman

  • “Being an actor himself really gives him an edge because he knows what people on the other side of the camera want out of a headshot and he knows how to give them those looks. These are the best looks I've had in a headshot in six years of being in New York City. Can't thank you enough, Ben.”

    -Josh Zirger

  • “Ben Esner was incredible to work with. He was able to shake away any excess energy I had and focus it into my type. I've always had trouble relaxing into my essence with still photography but Ben somehow found a way to relax me into letting go and pushing my focus through the lens. Thanks for the incredible shots Ben!”

    -Michael Lane

  • “My shoot with Ben was fantastic! We had a lot of fun and laughs but still got the work done and the results speak for itself. His shots are perfect for any actor looking to get a headshot that POPS. His adjustments during my shoot were short, but specific to what I was going for, and it worked! Do yourself a favor and schedule an appointment with him now, it's a great investment for your career.”

    -Devin Klos

  • “Ben Esner is a dream to work with. He made me feel so relaxed and at ease during the shoot and really helped me tap into a confidence that I didn't know that I had. He also has an amazing eye, capturing great moments through his lens. I will definitely work with Ben again.”

    -Nicola Riske

  • “I've always had trouble having my headshots taken because I find it hard to open up--staring directly into a camera, but Ben knows how to keep it light and relaxed and he creates his own world with you. I'm sure Ben could tell I was nervous, and he made me laugh so much, I forgot he was taking the pictures! Ben is very honest and wants that honest shot from you. He is a professional Actors Photographer...he's that rare kind of person you just want to spill your life story to, and he'll get it on camera! If you're looking for that real, honest, interesting shot---go with Ben---he's the real deal!”

    -Lacy Marie Meyer

  • “Ben is a great guy who makes you feel relaxed in front of the camera right away. He is thoughtful, encouraging and keeps you focused during your shoot. My photos are truly me at my best!”

    -Sheila Donovan

  • "I can’t say enough great things about my experience shooting with Ben. When I found him, I had just had headshots done by another photographer that were completely unusable, so I was very timid and worried about getting new head shots. Before booking my session with Ben, I explained to him my recent experience and he went above and beyond to consult with me and walk me through his process, which made me feel confident that he was a great choice for a photographer. Shooting with Ben was a blast. Because of his way of putting people at ease, I was able to just relax and be myself, and ultimately that came through in my pictures. I had a variety of shots to choose from. I felt like Ben really understood the pressure that is on actors to have a great headshot and has a unique ability to lift the pressure off, which allowed me to just have fun in front of the camera, resulting in great, natural shots that I couldn’t be happier with."

    -Rachel Brill

  • "Ben was so great to shoot with! I felt really comfortable and he reminded me to BREATHE which was key for me. He's really laid back and passionate at the same time. I loved his energy and enthusiasm and he got me to just relax throughout the session. And the results speak for themselves as the pictures represented me at my best. And my manager loves them too, she's having a hard time figuring out which ones to pick! Definitely run to Ben and see for yourself. Thanks again, Ben!"

    -Roger Anthony

  • "From the moment I met Ben, I knew my head shots would be amazing and I was right! He made me feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire head shot session, from choosing outfits to taking photos. He gave just the right amount of advice, as well as listened to my ideas. If you are looking for beautiful, natural headshots, definitely give Ben Esner a call!"

    -Kristi Sorkin

  • “Ben took my ideas and with his talent and creativity delivered fantastic results. I’ve gotten so many great shots, it was hard to narrow them down. I got great feed back from coaches on them already. He picked great locations and lighting to capture what I had in mind and the shoot itself felt inspired.”

    -Boris Alexander

  • “Ben is an amazing photographer. He sets you at ease right away, has an incredible eye. Listens to what character you are trying to capture and directs you beautifully on how to get that perfect shot in the moment! Book with him now!”

    -Michelle Pruiett

  • “I needed professional headshots done for my website and job-hunting, and Ben delivered! I don't like getting pictures taken of myself, and had never gotten them done professionally, but Ben really guides you through the process and makes you feel comfortable the entire time. The pictures turned out fantastic and if I ever need more done, I'll be returning here.”

    -Sarah Engel

  • “Ben is a superb photographer who knows how to shoot actors.He knows how to bring out the best poses from you. Not every photographer can do that. If you're looking for quality headshots, this is your place.”

    -Fernando Vieira

  • “Ben is an exceptional photographer. He has a keen eye for getting the right shot! Our headshots turned out better than we could have imagined. Highly recommend him!”

    -Donna Gammon