articles/Profiles/theinterviewvernonmiles-page2
by Mike McNamee Published 01/01/2005
If you experience 'Life' and are receptive to its lessons, education takes an entire lifetime, and you never finishstudying. I believe that when a certain experience level is attained, technique is like a reflex. It then becomes areaction to the visual and emotional senses.
Would you say that shooting weddings and portraits is a good career choice if you want to make money?
Yes
Did you have a 'lucky break' like many other successful photographers?
Yes, I came into contact with a millionaire who wanted something a little different. The couple ordered a lavish album, which has been shown to all the friends in their circle andgenerated a lot of additional commissions.
Which other photographers have you found inspirational?
None that I am consciously aware of; I have never had the time to go out and study the work other photographers with a view to changing what comes naturally to me.
Is there a huge marketing effort required to generate the correct amount of good business or do you rely on word of mouth?
Word of mouth is good, everybody stands in the centre of their circle of influence and I am continually looking for that client to motivate people within their influence, to help me up-sell,upgrade my service and thereby upgrade my own lifestyle.
Do you shoot what you feel is best for your clients or do you allow some to clearly define what they want?
I find out what the client's ideas are, and what they think they are looking for from their day (or two days if there is a pre shoot, the day before), then I give them some of my ideas, and up-sellfrom that point.
So how do you make sure it's you that is commissioned above any of your competitors?
Slide show, music, nice surroundings, quality displays, time, and last of all, an emphasis that it will almost feel like I'm a guest at your wedding, not an obtrusive photographer.
How would you best describe your personal style or technique of photography?
I like doing posed shots, but use some poses as a catalyst for my particular style,which is to create, there and then, something unique to this particular bride and groom.To thinkon my feet is the way I describe it.
What things do you most enjoy about your job?
I am going to lots and lots of parties most weeks, it's almost like being a socialite.
When is the busiest time of the year for your business?
All year!
There are 0 days to get ready for The Society of Photographers Convention and Trade Show at The Novotel London West, Hammersmith ...
which starts on Thursday 1st January 1970