Hello Steve, please tell us a bit about your self as a photographer.
Hello Camera Obscura,
I qualified at University a few years back in media and photography, I love
All aspects of photography from commercial, to fashion and underwater photography!
How did you first start in photography?
I started photography with Olympus film and basic Chinon films SLR
What is commercial photography to you? How do you perceive it?
Commercial photography is very much lifestyle to me, I think commercial photography has a wide range of scope for the onlooker but to me its natural feel that motivates me.
Why commercial?
Commercial photography is in depth so there is always room for challenge and diversity, commercial photography brings creativity and new faces to the world. Visual art mixed with commercial inspiration can been a mind blowing experience.
Do you think that commercial photography has changed since its early beginnings? If so, why?
I think change is always going to be important, as technology moves though; I feel the real gritty art side of photography has escaped some of us people today. I can’t say that this is all bad; I like that the camera manufacturer’s still make life interesting for the semi professional and professional photographers.
Can we still talk about commercial photography as a general term or do we start calling it with a specialized name (e.g. model photography, food & beverages, automotive, jewelry, product, etc.)? In this regard, are you a commercial photographer or a fashion photographer?
I think commercial photography can be mixed in with fashion to a certain degree, but a lot of fashion and couture is more art based I feel and should not be tied into one style or one brand. The thing we must contemplate about photography is that everyone that is involved heavily in photography will express so many views; this alone has made photography what it is today. The chance to create constructive arguments on whether photography is art or other! I believe photography is art and expression and a story of people’s emotions sometimes.
Is this type (commercial) of photography more difficult that other type? Let’s say…landscape photography?
Commercial and landscape photography are just as hard as each other, all types of photography are hard because the best work always comes from something I quote on a daily basis in photography world “ thought process”
Is it more expensive?
Studio and fashion work can be expensive, but so can commercial and landscape
What about more rewarding? Is it more rewarding? In what terms?
Reward is the day when you expect very little but get rewarded with something amazing with your cameras. I feel comfort on days when lighting is on my side, and feel and mood all combine together to make a great shot. Financial reward is not as important to me as self motivation and a great shoot.
When did you know that this is the kind of photography you want to pursue? And what do you think was the reason behind this decision?
If I’m very honest, I started out as a Ferrari photographer on basis work, but someone convinced me I do people and lifestyle photography better. They was right, I am addicted to people and lifestyle work now.
When do you stop seeking for clients and they start seeking you? Is there something like a threshold?
2009 seen me network more than take many photographs, although I did take some good shots occasionally last year. I have only just seen clients follow my work, so I can’t say at this moment I am very sort after.YET! J
Since it is commercial photography, do you have to balance your own ideas and vision with the requests of the client? How do you solve such situations?
Easiest way to solve a clients request for work, is to make sure you understand composition, rudimentary and thought process. Let’s not forget lighting though. Once you have the basics of composition and feel and emotions behind your work you should stand good ground for the right type of client
“To light” or “not to light”? (that is the question). Can you do commercial photography without artificial lights? What do you prefer?
I loooove natural light; and artificial light. I have created shots with normal kitchen spots lights that have convinced people I have used Bowens or studios props. It really is all about test and pushing the ideas.
Anything else that is important on this topic that you think we did not cover?…
Yes composition and the emotional side of creativity, but you covered the questions and presented them well.
What does it take to be a good photographer?
Thought process! The love and the will to keep pushing yourself!
What does it take to be a good commercial photographer?
A good photographer; & a creative mind!
In the ending, what suggestion(s) would you give to a young photographer starting out in this area (photography in general, commercial photography in particular)?
Do not be swayed by peoples comments unless you really feel it constructive carried with weight and experience. Read the principal idea of photography, view others work as the internet holds every tool; but stay clear of text books style photography and created your own dreams.
It’s not the price of a camera it’s the “thought process” and sometimes the glass in the lens. Fast lenses are important sometimes!
Steve Jones (www.urbanomoda.com)
Sebastian Vaida, Camera Obscura
I agree. Creativity is one of the factors distinguishing a superb commercial photographer. With commercial photography, one has to invest a lot in composition, lighting and getting that perfect viewpoint.
I love the lighting on the second photo.!
Photography is a hard work, takes a lot of learning’s and creativity, not sticking to one style but a lot and also seek for new idea to enhance your work.