We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Josh Hagen a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Josh, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
I picked up photography during the pandemic as a new hobby. Over the years, I had collected action figures from various media licenses and came across some incredible photographers who were placing their figures in real-life situations, using creative lighting, setups, and practical effects. I was inspired and decided to give it a try, initially just to keep myself occupied. I started with my cell phone camera, and before I knew it, I was hooked. This passion led me to purchase my first frame camera to take my skills to the next level.
I learned primarily through online tutorials and a lot of trial and error. It was all about getting my reps in and understanding what worked and what didn’t. The most essential skill was learning to embrace mistakes as part of the creative process. Mistakes are opportunities to learn and evolve, and they have significantly shaped my unique style. Another crucial aspect was taking inspiration from other photographers and using it to guide my development.
If I could have sped up my learning process, I would have sought out more mentorship and community early on. Connecting with other photographers, getting feedback, and being part of a creative community can accelerate growth and provide valuable insights. The biggest obstacle was often self-doubt and the fear of not measuring up to others’ work. Overcoming that mindset and focusing on my own progress was key to advancing my skills
Josh, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
During the pandemic, I discovered my passion for photography, but the true stars of my work are the action figures I photograph. I’ve been an avid collector since growing up in the 80s and 90s, a golden age for the hobby that has only gotten better with time. The nostalgia of beloved franchises combined with modern technological advancements in sculpting and articulation has transformed these figures into miniature works of art. Using them as models in my photography allows me to bring these characters to life in new and exciting ways.
While my art began as a personal project shared on Instagram, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with renowned toy companies like Diamond Select Toys, Harvinger Studios for their “Savage Crucible” line, and Oddfrog Entertainment. Highlighting these brands and showcasing their products through my photography has been a true highlight of my career so far. My goal is to continue providing high-quality, engaging content for these companies and others in the industry.
What sets my work apart is the unique blend of nostalgia and creativity. I aim to create scenes that evoke a sense of wonder and excitement, transporting viewers back to their childhoods while also appreciating the artistry of the figures themselves. I’m most proud of the community I’ve built and the connections I’ve made through my work.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is a labor of love. Every photograph is a carefully crafted piece of art, designed to capture the essence of the characters and the joy they bring. Whether you’re a fellow collector, a toy company, or just someone who appreciates creative photography, I hope my work resonates with you and brings a bit of magic into your day.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
As a huge fan of comic books, movies, and related properties, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is bringing these beloved characters to life with dramatic lighting and dynamic action poses. It brings me immense joy to tell my own stories through my photography or even blend different properties together to create unique and unexpected visuals. Creativity offers a much-needed escape from the pressures of everyday life, allowing me to step into my own world and craft something truly special. The ability to create at that level and share my passion with others is incredibly fulfilling
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My goal has always been to do my best with what I have and to improve with each click of the shutter and each edit. I strive to be the best that my skills can offer, which means continuously learning and growing along the way. On a more personal note, I’ve always dreamed of partnering with companies to highlight their products, and achieving that has been incredibly rewarding.
However, there’s always another mountain to climb. I aim to continue attracting collaborations with companies, showcasing their products through my art. One of my aspirations is to have my work featured at conventions or to be credited as the photographer for promotional packaging and marketing materials. Ultimately, my mission is to keep learning, growing, and pushing the boundaries of my creative capabilities.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Oddfrog Entertainment
Mezco Toys
Maestro Union
Fury Toys
Xesray Studios
Harbinger Studios