Making it work: Business advice from a seasoned photographer.

Last week I had the chance to talk to photographer Randy Korwin on my new series #ConnectShareRepeat. Born and raised in Chicago, Randy has focused his work on both commercial and portrait photography. Here’s just some of what he has to say.

“We are a peaks-and-valleys industry. Embrace this time by making things…reach out to the people who you would want to have coffee with.”

For Randy, he has trouble NOT working on personal projects. He is currently collaborating with multiple artists in order to keep creating and building his brand. Anyone who has been in the industry for as long as Randy has (14 years) expects there to be busy times and also slower times. He uses the slower times to master his skills and create new art.

“Focus on the comfort level of everyone on set."

Randy has spent years marketing his photography skills, but with the current pandemic, he is focusing on ways to make people feel safe on his set. After testing the studio in his garage, he realized the space only allowed for the bare minimum distance apart of six feet. That wasn’t good enough for Randy. His goal now is to focus on the comfort level of the crew and the integrity of the project. So Randy did what he does best and solved the problem in front of him. He built a set outside that allows talent and crew to move around more freely- and safely-in the open space.

“Up front honesty”

To build trust with your clients, Randy suggests something tried and true: honesty. Use your knowledge and experience to give the client a clear vision on how the shoot will run while still managing expectations.

And as far as what his own personal production predictions might be? He sees smaller sets, longer production times, and more artist collaborations in the near future.

Randy's outdoor set at his home in Chicago.