I met Michael within a few months of moving to the D.C. area while I was in search of a photographer. I stumbled across his Instagram and the rest was history! Michael was the first photographer I met and I was blown away by his work, especially in the studio. I've dreamt of creating beautiful content in the studio and here comes Michael, being great. I was able to catch up with him about his journey as a photographer. Here's what he has to say:
Crystal: When did you begin your photography career?
Michael: I started photography in September of 2012.
C: What is your greatest accomplishment thus far?
M: Shooting for major brands such as Michael Kors, Diesel, Salamander Resorts, Washington Redskins, Washington Wizards
C: Who/What inspires you?
M: I am highly inspired by my son. Looking at him makes me realize that life is yours for the taking
to enjoy everything you have and make the best of it. If I had to choose an artist it would be Mario Sorrenti
C: Which failure turned into a blessing in disguise?
M: When I got fired from Home Depot in 2014. It forced me to take my photography serious and hustle like I should have been doing
C: What is your favorite lens to date?
M: By far Canon 135mm F/2 L I just wish it was usable in all situations
C: How do you educate yourself on taking better pictures?
M: I practice quite a bit I try new methods of doing things that I may be used to doing a particular
way.
C: Among your works, which is your favorite?
M: My favorite work to date is a eyelash campaign I did for a MUA named Krystal and the eyelash
creator Ebony. Super talented young black women
C: What is one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
M: I wish I knew how to price photoshoots lol I feel like I was robbed from my true worth for years! It hurts sometimes lol
C: Among the gadgets you own, is there something that you wish you hadn’t bought? Why?
M: I wish I hadn’t bought my iPad I thought I would use it to tether while shooting and I have yet to do so lol
C: What do you have to say to those who are chasing a photography career?
M: Practice every chance that you get and charge what you believe that you're worth all the time!
Michael Smith is an extraordinary photographer who has created content for people in all realms of business. Below are a few examples of his work. If you want to see more, check out his website here