Everybody knows in fashion that it is best to be at least two steps ahead. Photographing fashion is not any different. The Raleigh/Durham area has just such a photographer in Austin Clark. Even though he is only 16, he has been in the “business” of taking pictures since he was 9! And now he is looking for clients in the fashion world. I had an opportunity to interview this young entrepreneur and to see into the mind of fashion photographer.
How did you get started in photography and how old were you?
My grandfather is a photographer as well, so he was the one who got me into it, he always had a camera with him, and I was always looking over his shoulder, trying to see what he shot. He also helped my buy my first camera in 2004. From then on I was hooked; I was never seen without it. So, I have been taking photos for about 7 years (I was 9 or 10 years old).
Why did you start getting into fashion photography?
A few years after I got my first camera, I decided I would try to make some money off of the skill. I made up a portfolio composed of my siblings and friend's children, and a simple website. Unfortunately, my age and lack of real equipment made my new endeavor of a family/kids photographer pretty much a failure, so I quit. About a year or two later, I started BlakePhotography. This time, it stuck, and I started getting a few gigs from families and parents here and there. The fashion interest started about three years ago when I took a few pictures of two friends of mine just for fun. They turned out really well and I really liked the experience. Off and on, I would take pictures for the same friends until just in the past year, my interest became deeper, and I did five hard core fashion shoots. I hope that in the upcoming year I can do a whole lot more.
What do you look for in a model?
I have not worked with many models, but I definitely know what would make a good one. Most people think that as long as someone is pretty, they will create great images. VERY WRONG! Models have to be comfortable with their bodies and know what they look like. It is also very important that a model is dramatic. If a model is extremely beautiful, but has no emotion or does not know what her body will look like in the camera, the photo shoot will not be nearly as successful as it could have been. Photographers are supposed to help the model along with what look they (photographers) are going for, not mold the model into that possession. Photographers can only create a stunning image if the model knows to a certain extent what she looks like behind the camera.
Who are your photographic influences?
My grandfather of course, but when it comes to fashion, I have learned from many different people from many different sources. Some of my favorites though are, Karl Taylor, Michael Zelbel, and Ben Sant.
What type of camera do you use?
I use a Canon xsi with a Tamron lens.
Do you want to be a fashion photographer in North Carolina or a 16 year old photographer in North Carolina? How does your age factor into your business?
I used to not give my age when I emailed people about working with them as a fashion photographer. But then, one of my closest friends, Ben Armstrong (http://9milesmedia.com/) told me the very fact we have done what we have done at our age is something we should be proud of, and not afraid to show. So in answer to your question; I would be honored it you stated my age.
Have a question for Austin? Visit his website at http://www.wix.com/blakephotograph/blakephotograph.
Let me know what you think about this article!! Email me at vrredman@gmail.com.
What more Raleigh area fashion photographers? Go to http://www.examiner.com/fashion-photography-in-raleigh/raleigh-s-fashion-photographers-review !
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