A big part of launching a successful Etsy shop - and a major focus of the interactive Etsy Me! event - involves effective product photography. That's why CoBALT has hired some of the best photographers around to give your new Etsy shop this visual advantage. Allow us to introduce you to another photographer who will be at Etsy Me! Meet Alex Zafer. If you're participating in Etsy Me!, he just might be the one to capture your art or handmade items at their finest. All images are the photographer's own work.
Who are you, and how did you get started in photography?
I grew up in a creative family immersed mostly in the music business; however, I was much more attracted to the behind-the-scenes activity. With broad interests in many things, my career path has been rather varied and winding. My interest in photography grew from my work in video production. More than 15 years ago, an artist friend of mine introduced me to the photography of Henri Cartier-Bresson, a master in life-reportage. Bresson influenced me so much that I began studying the masters (many unknown inspiring and aspiring), and soon enough, began building a portfolio. Today I primarily work freelance specializing in reportage, documentary, special events, bands and promotion.
What's your favourite subject matter to photograph?
When I'm not shooting commercial, special events or documentary, I'm also an occasional "artist" working on personal projects. Urban and street-style shooting in particular has become a vocation (so to speak). It’s what rejuvenates me, keeping things fresh. Each time I hit the street, I'm reminded why I fell in love with the craft and the art of photography in the first place.
What are some of the benefits to having a professional photograph your product shots, rather than doing it yourself?
Today everybody has a digital camera. It’s true that anyone can press a shutter button, however, it’s an entirely different thing to have an experienced professional working with you. Technical know-how as well as the capacity to capture great photographs is all too important in creating unique images that truly stand out. Most professional photographers have high standards and a creative eye. By using a professional, you are nearly ensured clean, clear, eye-catching images.
If a photograph can say a thousand words, poor quality photographs may also infer poor quality products. In that thinking, your photographs must reflect well on your products, and fit in with your online presence and printed collateral pieces. This will show your clients and buyers (and even your competitors) that you take pride in your business and have the resources to be successful. All this is made possible by hiring a professional who can create the best composition, colour, positioning of product, lighting and exposure. Depending on one's purpose, your final images can be used over and over again in portfolios, websites, or in promotional brochures for years to come.
How important are communication and collaboration when working with a client?
They are everything. Perhaps listening is truly the most important key to building successful working relationships. Creative collaboration with clients is all about sensitivity, good ears and style. Many problems can be solved before they even have an opportunity to arise with effective verbal communication. While it’s important to understand that as a photographer, I probably have been hired for my vision (and capabilities), it’s also important to remember that the client also has a vision. They’re looking to a pro in realizing this vision, and only through that discovery am I able to advise and provide suggestions. During the briefing process, my clients will more than likely help me equip myself with the right creative mind-set by listening, understanding and defining the objective. In photography, so much weight is always emphasized on the actual photos, when in reality, that’s what goes on at the end of the process. A client’s project has everything to do with what they need, what they represent, what type of target they're trying to reach.
One thing I really like about this business is the fact that it’s subjective. There is no one right way to do things, therefore, adaptability and a good bedside manner are also key. Always expect the unexpected. In that I mean it is important as a photographer to keep an open-mind, be open to criticism. A photographer may have poured his heart-and-soul into a photograph, yet elicit a so-so reaction. This is okay, because it can go the other way too. An image I thought my client may have considered a throw-away can garner a "WOW" reaction. This is why I believe collaboration should also include the post process where the cherry picking begins.
Thanks, Alex!
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