Today’s Questions With a Pro features Brian Finke. Brian often spends years working on long term projects while simultaneously publishing books, participating in gallery exhibitions and shooting for clients like Men’s Journal and New York Magazine.
We Asked: Tell us about your personal project, Most Muscular. How did this project come about? How did you get access to your subjects?
Brian Said: Initially, I was assigned by Men’s Journal to shoot the Mr. Olympia competition in Las Vegas. I had always been taking a lot of sports photos, but I was fascinated by how extreme of a sport and lifestyle bodybuilding was. So I continued to explore this interesting subculture and showcase the emotional, and quirkier moments both onstage and offstage, that we normally don’t get to see.
We Asked: You photograph a lot of different types of people. How do you build your relationships with the subjects?
Brian Said: I am very comfortable in different situations but I never approach my subjects obtrusively. It also helps that I’m a good listen and genuinely curious about what my subjects have to say.
We Asked: What tips would you give to emerging photographers entering the marketplace today?
Brian Said: Always make time for personal projects which often times become the work you’re most proud of.
You can see more of Brian’s work on his website.
If this article was of interest to you, then check out some of the other posts in the Questions with a Pro and Questions with an Educator series.