Toronto-based photographer Trevor Godinho has photographed some of the biggest names in Hollywood, from Clive Owen to Michael Douglas, Nicolas Cage, Jennifer Connelly, Tilda Swinton, Keri Russell, and even Alexander Skarsgård. From his celebrity portraits to his fashion editorials, his work has appeared in magazines around the world. It goes without saying, then, that he’s one of the busiest photographers in town during TIFF 2014. We caught up with Godinho between photo shoots to find out more…
Tell us a bit about yourself. What should people know?
There’s not much to say. I love creating art, a well-tailored suit, and a good glass of scotch – that’s me in a nutshell.
When did you know photography was your future?
I’ve always loved photography and come from a fine art background. But to pinpoint a moment is probably when I saw this black and white image by Marco Glaviano of this nude model hanging from a tree shot in France. The image just captured my imagination of what I could aspire to create and I’ve been shooting ever since.
What are some of the most memorable people you have shot?
To name a few: Nicholas Cage, Jeff Bridges, Milla Jovovich, Bill Nighy, Johnny Simmons, Hope Dworaczyk, John Stamos, James Earl Jones, Edward Norton, Ice T, Big Boi of Outkast, Tilda Swinton, etc. But my favorite celeb shoot has to be shooting Michael Douglas as it wasn’t planned – it just happened and that shoot changed my life and the direction of my career by light years.
What’s next for you?
Since most of my career has been dedicated to building my brand and working on commercial or editorial work, my art work has fallen to the wayside. I’m hoping to start creating again so by the end of 2015 I’ll be ready to exhibit… Well, that’s the plan. Let’s see what the universe has in store for me.
What are the biggest challenges and best rewards about what you do?
The biggest challenge in our industry is convincing clients that investing in good photography brings value to their product or service, and that it’s a craft, which entails more than pressing a button on a camera. The best reward is when you see your work publicly displayed or published; knowing so many people are seeing something you created.
What are three things you can’t live without?
Food, my camera, and iPhone.
Finish this sentence: I love Toronto because…
…we have the most beautiful women in the world. And if that doesn’t sell you the restaurants will, each with its own unique flavour and ambiance – that’s just one of the reasons Toronto is my main home-base.
What’s your favourite restaurant?
That’s a hard question. I love food and I love to try a lot of different places in Toronto. Currently, for the vibe and food, I will have to say Grand Electric, but that may change as I recently checked out Cluny in the Distillery District and loved the experience and food.
What’s one of your favourite go-to designers?
I don’t have any specific designer that I religiously purchase from other than Jockey – love their boxers. (Ha!) But I like to draw inspiration from designers like Tom Ford, Armani, and Hugo Boss – all have had a big influence in my dressing style.
Do you have a regimen to help you stay focused and balanced?
I love to hit the gym first thing in the morning and get in some boxing as well as a great total body workout. It gets the creative juices going, and keeps you looking good and feeling amazing. That paired with an great green protein shake and eggs is the best way to start my day.
What’s your favourite grooming/spa service?
My normal routine doesn’t leave me time for the spa or pampering, but when I’m in NYC I have to hit Barbiere at 246E 5th Street between 2nd and 3rd Ave. The best warm shave ever.
Let’s get social for a mo’. How can people stay up-to-date with your busy life?
Well best most entertaining way, mainly cause its visual, is my Instagram, and Twitter too.
