A Portrait Photographer's Perspective on NYC
The City as a Backdrop
Welcome to Shearer Portraits' blog! Today, we have the pleasure of diving into the fascinating world of portrait photography in the vibrant city of New York. We sit down with our talented NYC portrait photographer to gain insights into his journey, the challenges he faces, and the unique aspects of capturing the best of clients in this iconic city.
How did you become an NYC portrait photographer, and what drew you to this line of work?
Photography was just becoming my thing when I moved to New York in 2021 and when I arrived, I was struck incredibly hard by the opportunity inherent in living in America’s greatest city. As I explored the diverse neighborhoods and unique energy, I realized that photography here could never grown old. Because, I was just beginning work as a professional portrait photographer in Michigan, where I had lived, the move basically gave me the jolt I needed. That being said, I am in the early stages of effectively telling peoples stories and I absolutely love the learning process and being a part of my client’s next steps in their career or family is why I love portrait photography. I work in other areas like product and lifestyle photography for my company Winning Creative but, portraits are my favorite because of the connection with the clients.
What sets NYC apart as a backdrop for portraits and engagement photography?
New York City is a playground for photographers, offering a plethora of iconic locations and an ever-changing urban landscape. I live in Long Ilsland The juxtaposition of towering skyscrapers against intimate streetscapes creates a stunning visual contrast. I was on a photoshoot for a For engagement and portrait photography, the city provides endless possibilities - from the enchanting Central Park to the dynamic streets of Brooklyn. The diversity of the city's architecture, parks, and cultural landmarks adds depth and character to every shot, ensuring that each image is unique. I’ve spent the first part of my life near Chicago and have traveled throughout the years but for me the diversity in the settings is greater here than anywhere else.
What challenges do you face as an NYC portrait photographer, and how do you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges is the fast-paced nature of the city. Time is often limited, and clients are always on the move so, this means I have learned to be flexible and to set extra time aside for sessions. I’ve learned to be prepared for the unexpected and by being flexible, this helps create a relaxed and comfortable environment. Ever-changing weather conditions, crowded locations, and unexpected moments are additional challenges that are ever present. I was on location in Central Park for an amazing client, Brittany Lombardi (Little Cake Baker) when there was scary episode with a biker. Things happen and it’s important to stay composed and refocus on the job at hand.
An incident with a bike messenger in Central Park didn’t affect our focus while on location for Little Cake Baker. Overcoming challenges with a great attitude is part of working as a photographer in NYC.
How do you approach corporate and business portrait clients in New York?
Corporate portraits in NYC require a blend of professionalism and creativity. Understanding the needs and brand identity of each client is crucial and I take the time to research and familiarize myself with the company's culture, ensuring that the images align with their vision. The challenge lies in capturing executives in their natural environment, whether it's a sleek office building, their office, or on location. By effectively communicating with the subjects and creating a relaxed atmosphere, I can capture authentic and impactful corporate portraits. Largely though I work with individuals updating their work profiles as they are seeking new jobs so, the first question I ask is what sort of feelings are they trying to elicit from their portrait. When I work with HR departments to provide company-wide headshots, the companies culture is the most important thing.
In a city teeming with photographers, how do you stand out and provide a unique experience for your clients?
NYC is indeed home to a multitude of talented photographers which makes it an amazing place to be. I am constantly inspired by the amazing talent here and I am continually improving and trying to be innovative in my approach. To stand out, I focus on building genuine connections with my clients. I take the time to understand their vision and aspirations, tailoring each session to their specific needs and I am never pressed by time but genuinely wanting to delivery images that will impress. By combining technical expertise with a creative and personal touch, I aim to create a collaborative environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. This approach allows me to deliver images that reflect their individuality and tell their stories authentically.
Being a portrait photographer in New York City is an exhilarating and rewarding experience. From engagement photography to corporate portraits, the diversity and energy of the city offer endless opportunities for capturing remarkable moments. Despite the challenges, our NYC portrait photographer continues to thrive by embracing the city's vibrancy and forging genuine connections with clients. Through their lens, they craft unique and compelling portraits, immortalizing the spirit of New York City
