Meet The Photographer Behind Faceiro Chris Underwood

The passion and spark you have as a photographer is the magic ingredient for what brings photographs to life. Nottingham-based creative professional photographer Faceiro believes exactly that! Specialising in fashion, pole and sports photography, he captures the elegance and strength within each person — which, without a doubt, is incredible. We met up with Chris Underwood, the photographer behind Faceiro, to find out more.

TCT: What is the most unusual photography request you’ve had? Probably one that’s coming up — I’ve been asked to photograph a pole dancer with her massive snake! It’s going to be a Halloween-themed shoot, so I’m really excited to be doing it.
TCT: What advice would you give to someone who was trying to break into the business? For me, photography has always been about doing what I love. I fell in love with it at an early age and would take my camera everywhere. So, when I decided I wanted to make a career out of it, it was a high priority to make sure I wouldn’t lose that passion. If you don’t shoot what you’re passionate about, then you might as well be doing any old job. You’ll also lose your passion and spark, which I believe is the magic ingredient that brings photos alive. So, make sure you specialise in an area that excites you.

TCT: What’s next in your career? I’m in the process of organising an art-based project, which will hopefully lead to the exhibiting of the series. This is a side of the industry that has always excited me, and I’m very passionate about this project, so I’m hoping it goes to plan. A lot of my inspiration comes from a good friend of mine, and the photographer that I assisted way back when, Tim Flach. He has spent a long time working on his personal projects, which have led to a number of art books and exhibitions worldwide. I feel that if I can achieve half of what Tim has, then I’ll be happy. TCT: What is the most memorable moment from your career? There are two that vie for the most memorable moment. The first was when I photographed Trevor McDonald who was genuinely one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. He has such a pleasant and inquisitive nature that you can’t help but feel a little inspired after being in his company. The second was meeting and photographing the pole dance legend, Pantera Blacksmith, the founder of pole fitness. Being one of the leading pole fitness photographers, it was an honour to shoot her. She is such a beast and an absolutely lovely person to boot that it really helped me have the most enjoyable photoshoot so far.

Pantera Blacksmith, founder of Pole Fitness

TCT: If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, dead or alive, who would it be? Ayrton Senna. He was a hero of mine growing up. Not only was he an incredible racing driver, but he did a lot for charity inBrazil and had a zest for life that I truly admire.
TCT: How would you describe your photography in 80 characters? Capturing strength with creative lighting, to inspire emotions.

Finland or Japan? Japan Indian or Italian cuisine? Indian Picasso or Matisse? Picasso Play or Music Concert? Music Concert Canon or Nikon? Canon Promotional or Dance Photographs? Dance
For more on Faceiro, follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Interview conducted by Ellie Griffiths