Header photo: Image by photographer Bob Foyers  with model Lauren Jennifer

We love shining the limelight on fabulous creatives in the PurplePort community, sharing their unique journeys and creative processes.

In this episode of FEATURED, we interviewed Bob Foyers, a full-time PurplePort photographer with more than 12 years of experience based in Suffolk, United Kingdom. 

Image by photographer Bob Foyers and model amber-w

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Woodlandfern

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Jay Lou

About PurplePort photographer Bob Foyers

Bob Foyers is a professional commercial photographer based in Suffolk, with a studio located at Bentwaters, near Woodbridge. 

Specialising in product photography, headshots, and portrait work, Bob brings a wealth of experience to each shoot, ensuring a creative and tailored approach for every client. His work spans a diverse range of projects, from local businesses and performers to more conceptual shoots in collaboration with community artists.

Known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture authentic moments, Bob strives to create visually impactful images that meet the unique needs of his clients.

Since joining our creative community in 2016, Bob has received many glowing references on PurplePort, and his stunning work has been featured in the Front Page Image (FPI) Collection.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Lauren Jennifer

FEATURED Interview with PurplePort photographer Bob Foyers

How did you get into photography?

I've been interested in photography since I was in school. I was fortunate enough to attend a school that had a darkroom, and that's where my passion really began. It was fascinating to be able to develop my own photographs and see the images come to life in that way.

Over time, I realised that photography was not just a hobby but something I wanted to pursue more seriously. It has been a constant throughout my life, and I've always found myself coming back to it no matter where my career took me.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Jay Lou

What did you do before becoming a photographer?

Before fully committing to photography, I served in the Royal Navy. It was a demanding but rewarding experience that taught me the importance of discipline and attention to detail—qualities I still apply in my work today.

After leaving the Navy, I ran a restaurant with my wife. The restaurant industry taught me a great deal about customer service and managing client expectations, skills that are just as important in photography as they are in hospitality.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

How do you prepare for photoshoots?

I always start with a detailed discussion with my clients about their vision for the shoot. Communication is key to ensuring that we're on the same page. I often use mood boards to help clarify the concept, especially if we're aiming for a specific style or tone.

I like to do my homework on the location or setting, making sure that I understand the lighting conditions and any logistical considerations that could affect the outcome. The goal is to minimise surprises on the day and ensure a smooth, creative process.

Of course, being flexible and adaptable is just as important because shoots rarely go 100% to plan.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Karolina Nowicka

What style of photoshoot do you enjoy working on the most?

Portrait photography is definitely my favourite. I enjoy the challenge of capturing someone's personality or essence in a single frame. Each person is different, and that means no two shoots are ever the same.

There's something incredibly rewarding about helping people feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera, especially when the final images reflect their best selves. It's a collaborative process, and I like to work closely with the subject to make sure they feel heard and seen.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Sophia-Louise de Lancey

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Sophia-Louise de Lancey

What's the most interesting photoshoot you've ever worked on?

One that stands out is a record cover shoot I did for Izzy Kershaw. It was a unique project because we were tasked with not just creating a strong visual but also capturing the essence of her music and persona in a single image.

There were creative challenges in balancing her personality with the aesthetic direction, and it pushed me to experiment more with lighting and composition.

The final image turned out to be a great success and remains one of my personal favourites because of how it brought together music, mood, and visuals.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Lindsey Loren

What do you most enjoy about being a photographer?

I love the diversity of the work. No two days are ever the same, and I get to meet so many interesting people from all walks of life.

Whether it's working with a business to enhance their brand through product photography or collaborating with an artist for a more conceptual shoot, each project offers something new.

Photography also allows me to combine technical skills with creativity, and that balance is what keeps me excited about what I do.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Mariana

What would you describe as your main strengths as a photographer?

My main strength lies in my understanding and use of lighting. Whether I'm in a studio or out on location, I pay a lot of attention to how light interacts with the subject and the environment. This helps me bring out the mood and texture I'm looking for in a shot.

I'm also very detail-oriented, which means I'm meticulous about ensuring every element of a photo works together harmoniously.

Beyond the technical side, I think my ability to connect with clients and make them feel comfortable during a shoot is a significant strength. It's important that people feel at ease, as that always translates into better images.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model JennnCore

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Jay Lou

What's your absolute favourite photo?

It's difficult to pick just one, but if I had to, I'd say Three LBDs by Norman Parkinson.

There's something timeless about the way Parkinson approached fashion photography. The composition and elegance of the image are both striking and understated, which is a rare balance to achieve.

I admire the way he captured not just fashion but the character and story behind it. His work continues to inspire me in my own pursuit of creating images that are both aesthetically pleasing and deeply meaningful.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers with model Saria Goy

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Is there anyone in particular who inspires you?

I've been inspired by several photographers over the years, but if I had to highlight a few, I'd mention Annie Leibovitz, Harry Borden, and Norman Parkinson. Leibovitz's portrait work is unparalleled in how she captures the personality and nuances of her subjects.

Harry Borden's simplicity and attention to detail have influenced how I approach portraiture. And, of course, Norman Parkinson's innovative approach to fashion photography set the standard for creative direction in the field.

These photographers have each shaped my understanding of what's possible in photography and continue to inspire me to push boundaries.

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

What advice would you give to a photographer just starting out?

My main piece of advice would be to take as many pictures as you can. Don't get too caught up in what others might want to see—focus on what interests you and what sparks your creativity.

It's easy to get bogged down in trying to please everyone, but the most important thing is to develop your own style and perspective. Over time, your work will resonate more strongly if it comes from a place of genuine passion.

Also, never stop learning. There's always a new technique or approach to discover, so remain curious and keep experimenting.

One final question. Pineapple on pizza, yes or no?

Definitely no!

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Image by photographer Bob Foyers

Thanks again for speaking with us and sharing your creative journey, Bob Foyers. 

We hope you all enjoyed this interview. Check out the links below for more of Bob Foyers' beautiful work!

Here's where you can find more of Bob Foyers' work

PurplePort: Bob Foyers

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