Brian Smith is a Pulitzer Prize winning photographer and Sony Artisan. He will be working with Rockwell Harwood, the Creative Director of Details Magazine, in the upcoming workshop The Details of Fashion Photography, taught Oct. 30th. Recently we had a chance to sit down and ask Brian a few questions about his career and the photographic endeavor as a whole. Here's what he had to say...
How long have you been a professional photographer and what has been your greatest achievement?
I started shooting for the local newspaper when I was in high school and continued with internships for newspapers and wire services during the college. Once I got out of school I continued working for newspapers, which led to a lot of wonderful assignments including shooting the Olympics that led to a Pulitzer at 25. But on a personal level, my greatest achievement would be choosing a career path that has been so rewarding every day.
What was it like winning the Pulitzer Prize for your photography?
Unexpected. Shooting the Olympics was the greatest assignment I’d been handed and there wasn’t a moment I didn’t love during the 16-hour days shooting the games. The Pulitzer was just the icing on the cake.
How would you describe being a professional photographer?
You’re a visual storyteller. That part is really easy. The days you really earn your money are when everything falls apart and the wheels falls off the plane. You have to become a problem solver and bring the shoot in safely.
When did you become a Sony Artisan and what exactly does that entail?
Sony approached me for my input when they were developing the a900 and that was the start of a wonderful relationship. Sony looks to the Artisans for feedback about their cameras so we get to try a lot of cool new gear before it’s released. As part of Sony’s commitment to emerging photographers we also get a lot of opportunities to share what we’ve learned in the business at photo schools, trade shows and camera retailers.
What do you think about a portfolio review like the one NYCFotoWorks is hosting this October?
One of the most important parts of any business is building and maintaining a relationship with your clients and the portfolio reviews at NYCFotoWorks is an extremely efficient way not only to meet new clients, but to show existing clients what you’ve been up to.
What is it like getting the opportunity to work with Rockwell Harwood and teach a workshop together for photographers attending the portfolio review?
Rockwell is a legend in the industry. This is a chance for us to show emerging photographers what really goes into a magazine fashion shoot.
What’s your advice to emerging and aspiring photographers?
Shoot what you love and work your ass off.
