About Rod Goodman — NYC Headshot Photographer

At 18, I landed my first real job at Hanna-Barbera Studios in Hollywood, the home of Fred Flintstone, Yogi Bear, and the Smurfs. I worked there for over a decade, eventually managing overseas production and collaborating with executives, international teams, and major networks. That experience taught me how to stay calm under pressure and connect with people from all walks of life, a skill that now shapes how I work with clients as a professional headshot photographer in New York City.

From Animation to Photography

I discovered photography at 30, and it felt like magic. I studied photojournalism and briefly considered a path at the Los Angeles Times, where I worked alongside a staffer who later became Vice President Cheney’s photographer. But I realized I wanted something more sustainable and emotionally grounded. That led me to portraiture, specifically, helping people look and feel like their best, most honest selves on camera.

Learning Portraits on the Job

I got my start assisting Jay Spence, a well-known LA headshot photographer. We worked fast, sometimes over 30 clients a weekend. That pace taught me to adapt quickly, build trust, and bring out real expressions, even in high-pressure environments. It’s where I learned how to shoot not just technically well, but humanly well.

Building My Own Studio

By 33, I opened my own portrait studio. Within three years, I became one of the busiest headshot photographers in Los Angeles. I photographed more than 20,000 people before expanding to New York City in 2005. My LA experience gave me an edge in NYC’s competitive headshot scene, and I built a business around portraits that feel relaxed, confident, and real, whether you’re an actor, creative, or corporate executive.

What I Offer Today

Today, I’m a full-time NYC headshot photographer based in Chelsea. I offer actor headshots, corporate portraits, and personal branding photography that helps people show up with confidence, online, on stage, or in the boardroom. Sessions take place in my studio or on location around New York City.

I believe the best headshots come from real connection, not just good lighting. With over 20 years of experience, I’ve helped thousands of people feel seen, respected, and at ease in front of the camera. My portraits have appeared on Wikipedia profiles, in press kits, and on national television, trusted by professionals and public figures alike. That’s always the goal: to help you own your space.

I live in East Harlem with my wife, and I still miss our little pug, Tallulah, who managed the studio better than I ever could.

If you’re looking for corporate headshots or executive portraits in NYC, head this way. My studio is located in the heart of Chelsea, NYC — View on Google Maps.