🎥 As someone who’s been behind the lens for many years, I’ve heard this phrase countless times from models, clients, and colleagues: “You’re such a sweetheart, but you’re strict.” It’s an interesting juxtaposition, but it’s a sentiment that captures the duality of my professional demeanor.

Being strict doesn’t mean I lack passion. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Whether I’m on set or in the trenches of a culinary kitchen, both professions have instilled in me a sense of discipline and purpose. 📸👨‍🍳 Yes, I used to be a chef, and that experience shaped my approach to photography.

🎯 The Mindset Shift: From Chef to Photographer

Transitioning from a kitchen environment, where every second matters and attention to detail is paramount, I found a parallel in photography. Both fields demand precision, but in a world where creativity and structure collide, it’s crucial to maintain a balance. Many people associate photography with fun, artistic freedom, and yes, it absolutely is. However, I take my job seriously—just as a chef takes pride in crafting a perfect dish, I strive to create the perfect shot. 📷💡

I’ve had moments where I watch behind-the-scenes footage of other photographers and cringe. They’re laughing, chatting, and while that’s great for team morale, I wonder if the same level of professionalism and focus is present. It’s not about being a grumpy old man (I promise! 😂), but I believe clients deserve the full weight of my expertise when they hire me.

💼 Understanding Investment: Time and Effort Matter

When I speak of “investment,” it’s not just financial. It’s about time and energy. Whether it’s a client who’s paying for my services or a collaborative project with colleagues, there’s an expectation that the end product will exceed their expectations. To achieve that, I must stay focused. It’s not all fun and games on set, but it doesn’t mean we can’t have a good time either! 😄

I make it clear that I want people to feel their investment—whether monetary or time-based—is going somewhere valuable. Every project is an opportunity to over-deliver, to push boundaries, and ensure that every shot is not just good but exceptional. That’s why, during shoots, I sometimes need to turn off the fun, stop the casual BTS footage, and hone in on the task at hand.

🤝 Creating a Collaborative Atmosphere

Don’t get me wrong, I believe in having fun on set! 😊 But I also believe in balance. If I’m too relaxed, I’m not giving 100%. And if I’m too strict, the vibe suffers. So, I like to find the middle ground—laughs and smiles combined with a laser focus on capturing the perfect shot.

Some models and crew might feel a little intimidated by my serious side. But the moment I smile, they know it’s not about being harsh—it’s about getting that one image that communicates something profound. My eyes are always locked on the goal, ensuring that everything is in place to deliver that perfect picture. 😎✨

🎬 Final Thoughts

In any creative process, there’s room for both structure and spontaneity. Being passionate about what you do doesn’t mean you can’t take it seriously. I believe the best work comes from balancing both—laughing with the team while also staying committed to the vision. After all, the best results come from a space where passion and professionalism collide.

Let’s create some magic! 🚀