I am a professional food photographer by trade but I also Love shooting portraits. Having a specialty as a photographer really helps to build a business and attract clients. People seek me out because I’m a food photographer but at times I feel a little pigeon holed. But luckily the restaurant industry in NYC is full of colorful characters who need portraits taken for press releases and restaurant promotions. A great part of my job is getting to know the people that I work with on a more in-depth level. And the people that I work with are hospitality professionals who are skilled at making sure that you go home happy with a smile on your face.
I don’t have any one method for shooting portraits. No formula or map to follow. Each situation is different and each one offers a new chance to create some beautiful artwork with another person. If there’s time I’ll try a couple setups. I always try to avoid the traditional stuffy portraits but the best photograph is the one that works the best. And on a shoot there’s no denying that feeling. That tingle you get when everyone on the crew looks at what they made together and there’s just no words necessary. Just wow.