Commercial Photography
© Robert Meyer
There are many different fields a photographer may choose to enter in the world of commercial photography. Such areas of expertise may include advertising, corporate/industrial, editorial, lifestyle, people, travel and architecture. Designed to provide a working knowledge of commercial photography, this intensive workshop will cover a different commercial topic each week, thereby allowing students to gain a broad understanding of and exposure to the commercial photography market. The course will incorporate both editorial and commercial image for the development of each student’s unique style and will explain why both are important components/factors in creating a successful portfolio.
The focus will be on how to become a commercial photographer while also expressing and controlling one’s vision. Photographically we will concentrate on technique; discussing lighting patterns, lighting equipment, camera equipment, composition, styling, and directing used to create emotionally stirring photography for companies to better connect with their buyers and ultimately sell their products. The business of commercial photography will be explored as well, such as practical tips to start a commercial photography business, finding commercial clients, copyrights, contracts and marketing. The entire process from promotion to proposal to production and beyond will be examined.
Students will be required to shoot assignments between class sessions and show their work for critique and guidance for building a portfolio. Participants should have a basic understanding of photography.
Robert Meyer (www.robertmeyerphoto.com) is an award-winning commercial and fine art photographer with more than 30 years experience. Meyer has recently exhibited his “Silent Thunder” A Native Dance Series with performances of “the Encounter”, a cross-cultural ballet mixing traditional ballet with Native American powwow driven by a multi media presentation of his imagery. His unique balance between the commercial and art worlds has given Robert the ability to understand not only the creative process but also the business of taking pictures. His work has been published in Vogue, Bazaar and Lives magazines and his clients have included Coke, Leo Burnett, Motorola, Lands End and Outboard Marine. Among Meyer’s numerous awards include American Institute of Graphic Arts, Artist Guild of Chicago, Art Directors LA and Best of Show Photoworks'99. He currently resides in Los Angeles.
