Reviews of Derek Ford Studios (Photo Studio)

Don Juzwishin

Derek's approach to portraits is to capture a wide range of images that provide you with a palette to choose from. He is outstanding in making you feel comfortable and relaxed during a photo session and the results speak for themselves.

Mike Vardy

Derek's work in local publications drew me to him, and I was exceedingly happy with the work he provided. He made me feel comfortable throughout the shoot, was open to my ideas and offered many killer ones of his own. If you're looking for a top-notch photographer, you can't go wrong with Derek Ford.

Stephanie Wilmott

When I asked Derek to take head shots for my professional portfolio I was admittedly a-little trepidatious having never had professional photographs taken before .Derek made the whole experience an absolute pleasure, he produced some amazing photographs that I use for my speaking engagements both domestically and in Europe and on my web site , I feel that with his assistance he has lifted my professional profile to a whole new level.I highly recommend Derek and his work.

Megan MacDonald

Highly recommend Derek and his team! They always go above and beyond for all the events we've worked together on and the quality of images are fantastic!

Hilary Scott

Derek Ford is an incredible visual storyteller. I’ve worked with Derek in a number of different capacities including professional photoshoots and custom videography projects to an annual contract to build and support the creation of assets for a content library. Derek understands brand and what it takes to build, refine, grow, or pivot a brand. As a marketer I would never hesitate to recommend Derek Ford Studios to anyone who wants a true professional to support their corporate brand, their personal brand, their team, or their content strategy.

Jason Dauphinee

I've had the pleasure of working with Derek Ford on several projects over the years. His talent and creativity have always played an essential role in the development of our campaigns whether if was for photography or videography. He's a great collaborative team player and is always going above and beyond to deliver a superior product and customer experience. His latest work on our First West Credit Union campaing, which included both photography and video, was outstanding and contributed to returns for the client that far exceeded expectations. Jason Dauphinee - Chief Creative Officer / Creative Director Eclipse360

Ross Dunn

Derek did a great job of my business photos and I had a very hard time choosing only a selection of the many he took. I would recommend him whole heartily to anyone wanting a photo they can be proud to show anyone.

Karen Jamison

Great photographer, professional, gets you the shots you want that you thought impossible to get. Derek makes his mastery seem effortless, makes you feel very comfortable. I loved my final shots. I'd highly recommend.

Jeffrey Jakobsen

Derek Ford is an absolute pro. Working with Derek to visually capture the energy and tone of my Portfolio Management business was effortless. He guided the process every step of the way. He scouted and booked the location, provided wardrobe recommendations for myself and my team, was quick to set poses, and got quality shots without taking too much time. Derek provided a wide range of proofs to select from for final images and created a repository to pull from in the future. I definitely, and highly, recommend Derek Ford Studios.

Samuel Mercer

I first was introduced to Derek Ford studies through the kind invitation to host our Vancouver Island Life Sciences nonprofit association for one of our meetings. Subsequently I had new professional photos done by Derek for multiple needs/uses (two very different styles; one studio, one out and about) and both turned out fantastic. Furthermore Derek was super flexible about venue and location shooting especially given this was during the pandemic.

Zoe Donato

Derek was fantastic to work with! He was professional, engaged, and passionate about what he does. He took the time to get the perfect shots for my business and I have never had more compliments. I highly recommend seeing Derek for your headshots!

Blair Sloane

I have utilized Dereks skills,expertise, and creativity for a couple a jobs. I suggested some ideas and Derek added his spin and the results were always amazing. In Victoria, Derek Ford Studios gets two thumbs up.

Sonya Jones

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Derek on several occasions and each and every time he is professional yet sets his subject at ease to get the best shots. I’ve always found the editing process to be amazing, there has been a time when four out of five people look great and he has the ability to pull from a different shot to make that fifth person look as good as the rest. Derek’s also really easy to collaborate with, with our last shoot I had an idea of what I was wanting and after explaining it, in very non technical terms, Derek took it and ran with it, making it look better than I imagined. I fully trust Derek to do a fantastic job and have referred various people his way and plan on continuing to do so. If you need photos done why would you look anywhere else?

Dave Morris

I've used Derek Ford on more than one occasion and every time I hire him I am impressed. Not only by how great the photos turn out, but by how great Derek is to work with. He creates an environment that is both playful and professional. I use Derek for all my photography needs, and will continue to do so.

Jace Meyer

My experience working with Derek was exceptional. His recommendation and coordination of make up artist, @JenClarkMUA, coupled with his prompt response by email, initial phone prep call, and then onsite experience was more than I hoped for. I felt coached, free to name the vibe, and fully supported to execute my vision. All my images were provided to me in full to select from via dropbox same day, and all the images I chose were edited and provided to me within 24 hours of making my selections. I can even go back to the bank of photos at anytime in the future for future edits - only when and if they're needed! I'm stoked to have met Derek, I won't be going anywhere else. I fully recommend Derek Ford Studios to anyone wanting the highest quality experience - this is the investment you want to be making in yourself!

Lindsay Brookes

I thoroughly enjoyed working with Derek. He agreed to form a partnership with the Vancouver Island Chapter for the Canadian College of Health Leaders (CCHL) to offer a discounted package for the health leaders across the island during this pandemic. His generosity and thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated. I booked my session recently and am very pleased with the professional headshots.

Scott Harlow

Extremely happy with the headshots that Derek took of me. He is very good at what he does, fun to work with, and has a keen eye for detail. I highly recommend him. Scott Harlow

Ian Johnston

Working with Derek has been productive, professional and a real pleasure. In addition to videography work (filming, editing and creation) Derek’s services also included consulting, training and business strategizing as it relates to our promotional videos. The filming locations varied from boxing clubs to home offices, and Derek was able to adapt and make the most of any environment. The project included interviews, how-to and promotional videos. Our team looks forward to future projects with Derek, of Derek Ford Studios! Ian Johnston CEO FightReg

Jeremy Hendrikx

Extremely happy with my experience with Derek Ford. I needed an updated professional headshot, and Derek made me feel very comfortable. He produced a natural smile, which is essential for a great photographer. He also provided me the images very quickly, a top notch photographer. Highly recommend.

Kate FT

Appreciated the Derek's professional approach to ensuring COVID-19 precautions were in place. Excellent final product.

Stigma-Free Society

Outstanding! I felt really comfortable with Derek and he brought out my confidence. Photo shoots can be an awkward thing to do, but I had so much fun and loved every minute of it. The number of proofs were astounding and I am very happy with the final headshots!! Thank you Derek Ford!

Samantha Forster

I've worked with Derek for both a corporate shoot as well as a personal one, and both times I had the best experience. Derek is professional, engaged, and incredibly dedicated to delivering an incredible finished product.

Tony James

The National Stage Company of Canada has been incredibly impressed by the quality, creativeness and professionalism of Derek Ford Studios. His work is top rate and we are excited to continue to have all of our promotional imagining needs captured through Derek Ford Studios. We highly recommend Derek Ford Studios. You will not be disappointed.

Hannah Bell

I had a great experience working with Derek Ford! My headshots turned out fantastic and he made me feel very comfortable during the photo session. I would highly recommend

Andrew Hindi

Very professional and knowledgeable. The quality of work is impeccable.

Logan Swain

Having headshots taken with Derek was a great experience! From the moment I walked in the door, the session was fun and laid back while maintaining a professional tone. Derek made it easy to be myself in front of the camera. The photos turned out amazing and Derek had the final files ready faster than I expected. I highly recommend Derek Ford Studios for all your photography needs in Victoria, BC.

Doran Wright

Couldn't be happier with the photoshoot and finished product. Thanks again Derek!

Doug Brown

Derek has been my go-to photographer and videographer for nearly 10 years. He has created indelible and essential images for many clients I have rebranded, including Lighthouse Brewing Co, Fort Street Cycle, Gold Hill Winery, Salon Amici, Robbins Parking and recently Continuum Architecture. Derek is a cool hand on a shoot, always prepared and ready to collaborate. My clients love working with him and I obviously do too. The results speak for themselves.

Jace Meyer

My experience working with Derek was exceptional. His recommendation and coordination of make up artist, @JenClarkMUA, coupled with his prompt response by email, initial phone prep call, and then onsite experience was more than I hoped for. I felt coached, free to name the vibe, and fully supported to execute my vision. All my images were provided to me in full to select from via dropbox same day, and all the images I chose were edited and provided to me within 24 hours of making my selections. I can even go back to the bank of photos at anytime in the future for future edits - only when and if they're needed! I'm stoked to have met Derek, I won't be going anywhere else. I fully recommend Derek Ford Studios to anyone wanting the highest quality experience - this is the investment you want to be making in yourself!

Claire Sarginson, B.A. Realtor

Derek Ford is professional, friendly & and the results of our photo shoot were amazing. Within just a few minutes, I knew we had what we needed for the look I wanted for my branding. Derek is a true talent! I highly recommend him to anyone looking to upgrade their headshot or any other type of photography / portraiture. It was a great experience working with Derek!

Mercedes Bátiz-Benét

Derek has an incredible eye and his photographs capture the subject beautifully. His work ethic is impeccable and he truly understands his client's wishes. The results speak for themselves and each photograph is an absolute work of art. I highly recommend Derek Ford Studios for any project!

Nihad E. Karabernou McBride

Excellent experience at every single level! Derek is a fantastic photographer, and he is truly gifted! I will most certainly hire him again!

Waypoint Insurance

We have arranged several corporate headshots with Derek and not only was the booking experience super simple, Derek was very helpful, accommodating and the photos were exceptional! Highly recommend!

Ginny McLean

Derek exceeded our expectations. He is a professional in every way and a natural artist. With Derek's direction, our shoot was seamless, easy and calm. We got more than we asked for with a very quick turnaround time. He is truly a leader in his industry. Thanks, Derek! Janice & Ginny McLean Remax of Duncan

Trent Arterberry

Derek Ford is a terrific photographer. I have worked with photographers for nearly 50 years, and Derek is my go-to guy. He is easy to work with and very professional. He is also great with photoshop. He took as least 20 years off my age in my last portrait shoot! Highly recommend.

Jason Finnerty

This was a great experience for me and my business. Derek was a complete pro from the moment he arrived until the day the final proofs were in my inbox. I've already recommended him to many of my clients, and I'm looking forward to future opportunities to work with him.

Joanne Wilson

One of the most important calling cards for an actor is their headshot. I've been in the business a long time, as an actor and as an acting coach/teacher, so I know the value of a good set of headshots - the type that captures who you are from the inside out. Great lighting, a lovely studio and music, wonderful makeup, and a fun, relaxed atmosphere resulted in the best set of headshots I've had done, ever. Also, wonderful make-up by Makeup Artist, Diana Bridget Nielsen. Thanks Derek!

Graham Croft

Even actors don't always like getting their picture taken. Derek took the time to ask about the kind of photos I wanted, helped choose appropriate wardrobe and really made me feel at ease during our session. His studio is well equipped, and the neighbourhood nearby gave plenty of options for more candid shots. Out of over a hundred options, it was hard to choose just four for final production, but those four look great, give some different looks and really help me stand out on my agent's website.

Katie Richards

I selected DEREK FORD PHOTOGRAPHY to capture me in various outfits and poses suitable for my business marketing, products and services needs - for both on- and off-line purposes. I am based between Victoria B.C. and Zurich Switzerland. Working with Derek – from admin to receipt of results - was seamless. Great work and great to work with Derek. He is on my recommendation list.

Cory Laprade

Derek was awesome both in the studio and on location around his area. He made me look better than I am in real life. I feel bad there wasn't a Tip feature on my e-tran. Thanks again for the pics.

jeff scott

It was a great experience working with Derek. He is prompt and professional with a laid back vibe that allowed for an enjoyable shoot. Photos were turned around quickly and the highest quality. Definitely recommend!

Melanie Potter

I had the pleasure of working with Derek for my first business photo shoot. His work is by far the best I’ve seen and I had such an extremely hard time picking my top photos for editing! You won’t be disappointed!

Katharine Logan

Derek’s photography stands out for helping people to look like themselves, only better. Check out his portfolio, and you’ll see that he’s got each subject’s character to shine through, so that they look like someone you might like to know. And that, surely, is the point of a professional head shot! Highly recommended.

Dave Hatt

I am starting down a new career path and I needed to have headshots taken. I only work with artists - those who bring something to the table creatively, regardless of their chosen profession. I searched online extensively for a photographer who wold help support my vision of how I wanted to visually embrace the next chapter of my life. Derek Ford delivered. I would recommend Derek Ford for any photography needs and I am looking forward to hiring Derek Ford to capture my next photo session for my professional needs. I am also looking forward to working with Derek to capture our family's next photo session.

Jeremy Robinson

Derek was very professional and easy to work with. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a comfortable experience with the end result being great quality photographs.

Jennie Christensen

Derek and his team were incredible and provided high quality service and photos! I highly recommend him. We had head shots, office shots, and action shots - they all were great. He was very fast and responsive in his service. Thank you Derek!!!

Tomas Dosil

I have had the pleasure of working with Derek on multiple occasions and in a variety of scenarios - portraits, cocktails and events. Derek has always delivered above and beyond. His final product is exceptional and he is a delight to work with. He has always been able to translate my vision and when Ive been stuck, I can lean on him for creative direction and ideas. I strongly recommend working with Derek!

Martina Marie

Derek is a fantastic photographer! Not only his skills in photography, and editing but he is very good at replying and goes the extra mile. He helped scout our location, and keep taking pictures and going back till we had the exact image we wanted! he is also very quick at getting the whole process turned around. highly recommend for work or personal shots. Amazing experience!

Brandi Lafontaine

Derek was a pleasure to work with. He made me feel at ease throughout the shoot, was responsive and delivered an absolutely amazing finished product. I could not be more pleased with the quality of the work. Highly recommended!

Sean Guist

Derek is not just an incredible photographer and art director, but a great collaborator, too. Always a pleasure working with Derek, whether at his studio or on location, Derek always puts everyone at ease and produces incredible work.

Kyle McQueen

Working with Derek was a delight from start to finish. Derek provided great instruction and queues and made the whole experience enjoyable. Very happy with our final product! Highly recommend Derek Ford Studios

Rick Waines

Derek provided amazing promo and archival photography at a great price for an independent producer like myself. A treat to work with.

Samara Harrison-Moore

We hired Derek to help us with our company management photos, and he was great. Fantastic communication, worked with our timeframes, and the photos turned out amazing. Very professional and all the management team were extremely happy with the results. Excited to work with him again in the future.

Jackie Adkins

Derek was very professional and easy to work with. I went to him for a couple of business head shots and he made me feel completely at ease and, because of his extensive experience and expertise, he was able to capture the photos very quickly, which I really appreciated. It was a great experience from start to finish.

Maureen kelly matyczuk

I have had such a wonderful experience working with Derek in recent months. I celebrated a milestone birthday in February. I wanted to have professional photos taken to honor this momentous occasion, rather then take photos with my phone, I decided to hire a photographer. When I told him my vision, he worked with me and supported my ideas. I requested a quote and he sent it to me quickly. On the day of my event, Derek was organized and enthusiastic. My guests loved him as he was really fun to work with. Derek had the pictures to me within 48-hours. The photos were beautiful. The final invoice reflected the original quote and we wrapped up our contract. The whole experience with Derek was fun, professional and most importantly, the photos were beautiful. Little did I know, I would have to call on Derek within two weeks as I needed a professional head shot, I was on a time crunch. Derek managed to fit me in! I visited his lovely studio after a long day at work, he was patient with me as I was stressed out. In no time, he managed to help me relax and we captured some fantastic head shots. He had the shots to me the next day and I was able to submit before the deadline date. Again, his professionalism, promptness and politeness made for a great photography experience.

Karen Morgan

Derek not only takes wonderful photos; he involves the client in arriving at the best shot. He's also a very calm personality, who is able to put clients at ease (especially when they're not keen on having a photo done!).

anana nair

Professional and friendly. Explained choices available for sizes of electronic photos and requirements for different countries. Quick and efficient. Provided a digital copy immediately for a visa application. I highly recommend this photo shop.

Sheri Peterson

Derek's professionalism and quality of my self portraits was SUPERB!