Graduate Drama Student Headshots Actress Molly Dew
- JOANNE ELIZABETH BARKER
- 5d
- 4 min read
Guest Blog Post By Drama Graduate Molly Dew
Finding My Way Back:
A Cinematic Reset with Joanne Elizabeth Portraits
For as long as I can remember, performing has been a part of who I am. I was the child who was always putting on shows in the living room, humming songs under my breath, or reenacting scenes from films long after the credits rolled. That love of storytelling eventually led me to “Make Believe”, a performing arts school in Bishop’s Stortford, where everything started to feel real for the first time. It wasn’t just play anymore - I realised that acting was something I wanted to spend my life doing.
Early Steps Into the Industry
My first professional opportunities arrived sooner than I expected. I was part of an international self-esteem campaign for Dove, followed by a Santander advert, and then - most surreal of all - I travelled to Italy to star in a feature film. The film was released in 2020, but the premiere we had all been excited for never happened due to the pandemic. It was a strange, bittersweet moment: something I had worked so hard for arrived quietly, without celebration.
Training and Transformation
In 2021, I began studying Drama at the University of East Anglia. Those three years reshaped me. I learned new techniques, new ways of approaching text and character, and perhaps most importantly, I learned how to bring more of myself into my work. I left with a deep love for the craft and an even deeper respect for the people who dedicate their lives to it.
Since graduating, reality has hit harder than expected. I work locally in a cafe and, like many actors, started wondering whether the industry had room for me. For a moment, I genuinely thought about stepping away. But the people I love - especially my boyfriend, my friends and my family - refused to let me give up on something that has always been part of my identity.
Finding the Right Photographer
I knew I needed new headshots to move forward, but I was hesitant. My past experiences with photoshoots left me feeling unseen and uncomfortable, like I wasn’t portraying the best version of myself.
After some searching, I came across Joanne Elizabeth Portraits - someone local, which already felt like a good sign. What convinced me, though, was our very first call. What was meant to be a quick chat stretched into over an hour of genuine conversation: my hopes, the kind of actor I am, the image I wanted to present, and even the parts of myself I’ve been taught to hide.
I’ve always been told I look young, and because of that, I should play younger roles - meaning I should hide my chest so I could “pass” as a teenager. Joanne challenged that immediately. She encouraged me to consider that I am 23, and capable of playing my own age or even older. She made me realise that I didn’t need to erase parts of myself to be castable. That alone was incredibly freeing.
The Shoot That Changed Everything
The photoshoot itself was nothing short of transformative. I felt relaxed, confident, and entirely myself - something I had never experienced in front of a camera before. Joanne created a space where I felt seen, understood, and celebrated. The images we created together feel honest and powerful, and for the first time, I’m truly proud of how I look on camera.
Joanne didn’t just take photos - she reminded me why I love acting. She managed to reignite a passion I was genuinely afraid I had lost. Her talent is unmistakable, but her sensitivity, guidance, and ability to draw out authenticity are what make her exceptional.
Looking Forward
I’m stepping back into the industry with a renewed sense of purpose. With these new headshots, I feel ready to start auditioning again, to take risks again, to believe in myself again. My dream is to become a full-time, successful actor - and for the first time in a long time, that dream feels possible.
Working with Joanne wasn’t just a photoshoot. It was a turning point, and for that I’m incredibly grateful.
A Reply From The Photographer
Molly, thank you so much for working with me. Our session (Graduate Drama Student Headshot Package) felt like a truly meaningful creative journey, and I’m delighted that you were able to get everything you hoped for — and more — from our time together.
Actor headshots aren’t about cameras, studios, or how many lights are in the room. They’re about connection. It’s about creating a space where the person in front of me feels comfortable, seen, and able to show the very best version of themselves.
Working with you was an absolute pleasure. Lets revisit this post in six months and see how you moved forward XX
If you’re ready to elevate your acting portfolio with powerful, authentic headshots, let’s talk.
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