Sunday, August 26, 2007

My Photography Philosophy


What I love about photography is bringing out the best in someone, and of course, the more I know someone, the more I can bring out. You get the best stuff when the subject is comfortable with you, and you with them...which is why I prefer photographing people I know. It's also why you usually get your best stuff towards the end of a shoot, because that is when the photographer and the subject are most comfortable. And yes, I also enjoy making people look better than maybe they ever thought they could. I like to give them something that they'll cherish for the rest of their lives....something they can show their grandkids someday and proudly say "Yeah, that's me."
I've realized the value of photography. Nobody ever looks back at really old photos and says, "Boy, I'm sure sorry I have these."
No, we treasure them...whether they're embarrassing or not.

By the way, the man pictured above is Denzil Smith, a Character Artist who used to work with us at Disney, and a great guy.

13 comments:

bigjiminy said...

Ry,
Well said my friend. It's great to see Denz. Is this a recent snap? If so, he looks the same as he did 10 years ago! Give him my best next time you speak with him.

Vince M said...

You're right. My Granddaughters love the shot you took of me. You really didn't have to make this statement, Ry, your love and connection with your subject comes through in every shot.

Unknown said...

Great statement Ry. I think your philosophy strongly speaks through your work- like you're freezing time during a great moment.

Anonymous said...

Wow. I've never seen so much ass-kissing in all my life. You all need to get a room. All this comes after a shot of La Habra grabbing his ankles amidst a thin layer of khaki shorts! Ya. You're a genius!

RYAN ASTAMENDI PHOTOGRAPHY said...

Hutch...comin' in a little hot once again. And this coming from the guy who commented on "how the leaves seem to be framing La Habra so nicely."

Vince M said...

Boy, it was getting a little thick.

Thanks for bringing us back to earth, Hutch.

Anonymous said...

Ya. I guess that'll be the last time I give you a token compliment out of pity.

John T Quinn III said...

he left his flat files filled with great drawings. i keep them in a vault. what charm and skill. i miss him.

on second thought, he disappeared like a thief in the night without saying goodbye! that f***er! i wasn't done learning from you - you old bastard!

franzen said he speaks to him.

Anonymous said...

great photo ry and a very true, well said philosophoy. Thanks for sharing your philosophy as well as all your work on the blog.

Carlo Lo Raso said...

Hey Ryan.
Franzen called me a couple of nights back and told me about Denz. That picture you took is pretty much how I always remembered him. And now probably always will.

All the best........Carlo.

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