f/22 - Photographer Interviews by VSCO

In this episode of f/22, Zach Hodges sits down with film portrait photographer Lauren Marcelle at Bild Expo in New York City.Lauren shares her journey from shooting Polaroid as a kid to working in 4x5 and 8x10 large format film. She talks about why slowing down matters, what it takes to make a single meaningful frame, and why portraiture gives her something street and landscape photography never could: real human connection.They also dive into Cameras & Coffee, the community meetup she helped bring from the Bay Area to NYC, and why “just showing up” might be the most important step any creative can take.📌 This episode explores:• Falling back in love with film• The discipline of large format photography• Finding your niche after years of experimentation• Creating space for connection through portraiture• Building intentional creative communityFollow Lauren:Website: https://www.laurenmarcellephotography.com/VSCO: https://vsco.co/laurenmarcellephoto/galleryChapters:00:00 Slowing Down with Large Format00:37 Lauren’s Film Photography Journey02:12 Cameras & Coffee Origins03:32 What to Expect at a Meetup04:20 Overcoming Social Anxiety05:10 Why Community Matters06:44 Shooting 8x10 Portraits08:02 The Magic of One Frame09:08 Finding Her Focus in Portraiture11:05 Where to See Lauren’s WorkHashtags:#LargeFormatPhotography #FilmPhotography #PortraitPhotography #8x10 #Polaroid #PhotographyCommunity #CamerasAndCoffee #F22Series

In this episode of f/22, VSCO co-founder Greg Lutze http://vsco.co/greg/gallery sits down with Bay Area photographer, filmmaker, and Google computational research creative Brandon Ruffin http://vsco.co/ruffdraft/gallery to explore how identity, narrative, and technology intersect in modern image-making. Known for his powerful storytelling and community work through Cameras & Coffee Club, Brandon opens up about the emotional core of photography, how our lived experiences shape what we see, and why every photograph carries a point of view.From his Leica M11-D campaign to his upcoming book Migration Patterns, Brandon shares thoughtful insights on personal projects, creative identity, AI’s role in artistry, and the ways photography can connect us to our family histories, our communities, and ourselves. Whether you’re a new photographer or deep into your creative journey, this conversation offers a grounded, inspiring look at what it means to create with intention in an era shaped by both humanity and computation.Chapters00:00 — Storytelling, POV, and the artist’s role01:16 — Brandon’s background, identity, and approach to photography06:49 — Inside the Leica M11-D campaign & emotional image-making13:14 — Migration Patterns: family history, memory, and personal projects26:15 — Social media, “the banger shot,” and rediscovering play in photography31:18 — Photobooks, sequencing, and trusting the editing process36:18 — Photography as poetry: narrative, symbolism, and emotional truth38:00 — AI, creativity, and human-centered tools for artists41:05 — Hot takes & advice for emerging photographers47:36 — Building community, collaboration, and sustaining a creative life#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographytips #portraitphotography #storytelling #filmphotography #artandtechnology #computationalphotography #creativecommunity #photographypodcast #vsco

With nearly two decades of experience behind the camera, Karna Roa has photographed weddings around the world — from the vineyards of California to ceremonies in Tokyo and Morocco. In this episode of f/22, she shares how shooting weddings taught her every aspect of photography, how education through PPA (Professional Photographers of America) shaped her growth, and what she learned from the viral wildfire photo that briefly put her in the spotlight.📌 In this interview you’ll learn:Why weddings are the best training ground for any photographerHow to build a sustainable career in a demanding industryWhat it’s like to have a photo go viral overnightThe importance of lighting, preparation, and adaptabilityHow community, education, and mentorship can elevate your craftChapters:00:00 – Why weddings make you a better photographer00:18 – Meet Karna Roa, award-winning wedding photographer01:03 – Getting started at age 1502:29 – Building a full-time career and traveling the world03:23 – Highlights from 17 years of weddings04:17 – The wildfire wedding and viral photo moment10:35 – Lessons in lighting and storytelling11:18 – Staying passionate and emotionally connected12:36 – Making a long-term creative career sustainable13:00 – What is PPA and why it matters16:33 – Earning degrees and recognition through PPA18:28 – Growth through education and mentorship19:00 – Leading the Wine Country chapter of PPA20:09 – Advice for new and aspiring wedding photographers21:33 – The power of networking and relationships22:06 – Closing thoughts and where to find Karna’s work#VSCO #VSCOcam #streetphotography #Photography #ProfessionalPhotographer #PhotographyTips #weddingphotography #weddingphotographer

Greg Lutze, co-founder of VSCO and passionate street photographer, has spent his career blending design, photography, and creativity. In this episode of f/22, Greg opens up about his path from early graphic design work to photography, the origins of VSCO Film, and his ongoing love for capturing life as it really is.📌 In this interview you’ll learn:How Greg went from design to photography (and back again)The true origin story of VSCO and its presetsWhy collaboration is the secret ingredient in creative successGreg’s philosophy of street photography in the age of social mediaHow his new preset (V9) captures timeless film aestheticsWhy delight, curiosity, and persistence matter more than numbers⠀Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, Greg’s story is packed with insight, nostalgia, and inspiration.Chapters:00:00 – Intro & Greg’s creative beginnings01:06 – Early design, music, and first band photos02:22 – Seattle days & creative community05:00 – Learning by doing vs. technical perfection06:11 – Nostalgia and seeing time in photos08:09 – Finding his photographic style09:41 – Design work & the path toward VSCO12:16 – Film is dying? The spark for VSCO Film13:37 – Collaborating to make VSCO real16:09 – Why collaboration is everything18:11 – Building VSCO presets & app together19:04 – Greg’s love for street photography20:59 – Snapshot or art? Reframing criticism22:24 – Developing the new WE9 preset24:10 – The process of creating presets with intent26:09 – Making work that stands the test of time27:07 – Presets as a “three listen album”29:23 – Community, inspiration, and creativity today31:15 – Advice for new photographers33:04 – Joy, curiosity, and delight in photography34:53 – Closing thoughts & where to find Greg’s work#VSCO #VSCOcam #streetphotography #Photography #ProfessionalPhotographer #PhotographyTips

With nearly two decades of experience behind the camera, Karna Roa has photographed weddings around the world — from the vineyards of California to ceremonies in Tokyo and Morocco. In this episode of f/22, she shares how shooting weddings taught her every aspect of photography, how education through PPA (Professional Photographers of America) shaped her growth, and what she learned from the viral wildfire photo that briefly put her in the spotlight.📌 In this interview you’ll learn:Why weddings are the best training ground for any photographerHow to build a sustainable career in a demanding industryWhat it’s like to have a photo go viral overnightThe importance of lighting, preparation, and adaptabilityHow community, education, and mentorship can elevate your craftChapters:00:00 – Why weddings make you a better photographer00:18 – Meet Karna Roa, award-winning wedding photographer01:03 – Getting started at age 1502:29 – Building a full-time career and traveling the world03:23 – Highlights from 17 years of weddings04:17 – The wildfire wedding and viral photo moment10:35 – Lessons in lighting and storytelling11:18 – Staying passionate and emotionally connected12:36 – Making a long-term creative career sustainable13:00 – What is PPA and why it matters16:33 – Earning degrees and recognition through PPA18:28 – Growth through education and mentorship19:00 – Leading the Wine Country chapter of PPA20:09 – Advice for new and aspiring wedding photographers21:33 – The power of networking and relationships22:06 – Closing thoughts and where to find Karna’s work#VSCO #VSCOcam #streetphotography #Photography #ProfessionalPhotographer #PhotographyTips #weddingphotography #weddingphotographer

Greg Lutze, co-founder of VSCO and passionate street photographer, has spent his career blending design, photography, and creativity. In this episode of f/22, Greg opens up about his path from early graphic design work to photography, the origins of VSCO Film, and his ongoing love for capturing life as it really is.📌 In this interview you’ll learn:How Greg went from design to photography (and back again)The true origin story of VSCO and its presetsWhy collaboration is the secret ingredient in creative successGreg’s philosophy of street photography in the age of social mediaHow his new preset (V9) captures timeless film aestheticsWhy delight, curiosity, and persistence matter more than numbersWhether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, Greg’s story is packed with insight, nostalgia, and inspiration.Chapters:00:00 – Intro & Greg’s creative beginnings01:06 – Early design, music, and first band photos02:22 – Seattle days & creative community05:00 – Learning by doing vs. technical perfection06:11 – Nostalgia and seeing time in photos08:09 – Finding his photographic style09:41 – Design work & the path toward VSCO12:16 – Film is dying? The spark for VSCO Film13:37 – Collaborating to make VSCO real16:09 – Why collaboration is everything18:11 – Building VSCO presets & app together19:04 – Greg’s love for street photography20:59 – Snapshot or art? Reframing criticism22:24 – Developing the new WE9 preset24:10 – The process of creating presets with intent26:09 – Making work that stands the test of time27:07 – Presets as a “three listen album”29:23 – Community, inspiration, and creativity today31:15 – Advice for new photographers33:04 – Joy, curiosity, and delight in photography34:53 – Closing thoughts & where to find Greg’s work#VSCO #VSCOcam #streetphotography #Photography #ProfessionalPhotographer #PhotographyTips

From photographing World War II veterans to building a career in longevity and celebrity photography, Tom Sanders has carved out a unique niche in the industry. In this episode of f/22, Tom shares the story of how a college assignment led to two published books, long-term client relationships, and a thriving photography business.📌 In this interview you’ll learn: How a chance encounter with a WWII veteran shaped Tom’s career pathWhy finding a niche can be the most powerful move for a photographerPractical marketing strategies for freelancers that actually workWhy today’s photographers should also be filmmakersHow personal projects can lead directly to paid opportunitiesWhether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your photography business, Tom’s story is packed with inspiration and actionable advice.00:00 — Intro & Tom’s background00:55 — Family history: Ernest Hemingway portrait & photography roots03:02 — First WWII veteran portrait & impact of the project05:00 — Moving to LA & building a portfolio through veterans06:14 — The importance of personal projects07:20 — First big client: Belmont Village & published book08:10 — Celebrity photography in LA & early big breaks09:42 — Finding a niche: longevity photography12:28 — Teaching at Savannah College of Art and Design13:06 — How photographers actually get consistent work15:14 — Why photographers today must also be filmmakers16:23 — Practical marketing: social, ads, cold calls, and promos20:03 — Email strategy & building client lists22:03 — Networking, keeping in touch, and the snowball effect23:05 — Creating personal work to attract clients25:14 — Balancing business ownership & creativity26:56 — Money transparency & client work breakdown28:20 — Why LinkedIn is Tom’s most powerful tool31:25 — Advice for young photographers starting out33:11 — Why every photographer should shoot motion35:07 — Renting your own equipment back to clients35:49 — Where to find Tom’s work#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographertips #commercialphotography #portraitphotography #celebrityphotography #freelancephotographer #photographybusiness #creativeentrepreneur #photographypodcast #wwiiveterans #personalprojects

In Part 2 of our interview, Martine Severin pulls back the curtain on the business and strategy of commercial photography. From test shoots and building a team to networking, portfolio reviews, and landing clients, she shares candid insights from 13 years in the industry.📌 In Part 2, you’ll learn: Why commercial photography is a “tightly choreographed dance”How to show production value and prove you can lead a teamThe long game of relationships, outreach, and portfolio reviewsWhy being a decent human is as important as your photographyWhether you’re ready to move beyond weddings or want to understand how to thrive in commercial photography, this conversation is packed with wisdom.00:29 — Building a portfolio through styled shoots02:19 — Working with modeling agencies & creating lookbooks04:52 — Showing production value & working with a team06:20 — Outreach & marketing (24 emails a week)08:25 — Portfolio reviews & the importance of feedback10:13 — Building relationships that lead to work11:02 — The long game: 13 years of growth11:20 — Advice for aspiring commercial photographers12:20 — Finding your voice & keeping at it13:28 — Networking (or just meeting people)14:20 — Be a decent human — why character matters15:08 — Closing thoughts & where to find Martine’s work#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographytips #commercialphotography #photographycareer #photographyjourney #portraitphotography #creativebusiness #photographypodcast #emergingphotographer

From growing up in Haiti to becoming one of Vogue’s top emerging photographers, Martine Severin shares her unlikely journey into photography. In this episode of f/22, Martine talks about falling in love with photography as a child, the role of weddings as a training ground, and the long road to building a professional portfolio.📌 In Part 1, you’ll learn: How Martine discovered photography as a way to connect across distanceWhy weddings can be an incredible training ground for any photographerThe power of consistency in blogging, posting, and showing upPractical steps for creating a portfolio that leads to commercial workIf you’re just starting out or thinking about going pro, this part of Martine’s story is full of inspiration and real-world lessons.00:00 — Intro & Martine’s Background01:06 — Falling in love with photography as a child03:22 — Growing up in Haiti & connecting through photos05:05 — From street photography to Vogue’s “Top Emerging Photographers”06:16 — Why weddings are the best training ground07:57 — The early days of blogging & street style photography09:38 — The power of consistency (posting every week)10:49 — Balancing grad school with photography12:34 — Moving to London & committing to photography full time13:50 — The importance of taking small steps15:14 — Wedding photography vs. commercial photography#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographytips #photographycareer #photographyjourney #portraitphotography #weddingphotography #streetphotography #emergingphotographer #voguephotographer #photographypodcast

In this episode of f/22, host Zach Hodges follows along cityscape, landscape, portrait, and concert photographer Kris Kuganathan for a golden hour and night photoshoot through the urban scenes of Downtown Los Angeles. From capturing striking portraits to timing light trails, Kris shares his tips on lighting, composition, and storytelling to inspire your own creativity.0:28 — Intro0:51 — About Kris Kuganathan1:34 — Kris’s Photography Style2:10 — Shooting Golden Hour Portraits in the Street2:31 — Using Composition for Storytelling With a Set of Photos5:09 — Kris’s Approach to Exposure, Shadows, & Highlights7:14 — Importance of Knowing a Camera’s Dual Native ISO8:26 — Golden Hour Tip8:47 — Reflecting on Kris’s Favorite Photo Captured With a Telephoto Lens11:14 — Using Urban Elements as Natural Frames13:10 — Waiting for the Perfect Shot to Capture Long Exposure14:17 — Shooting Reflections & Starbursts15:40 — Outro#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographertips #photographycareer #portraitphotography #cityscapephotography #photographypodcast

From self-taught beginnings to a decision to pursue photography full time, join Zach Hodges in this episode of f/22 as he sits down with portrait photographer and visual artist John Baloy to discuss his creative journey. Known for his artistic portraits, John reveals how he leans into his distinct editing style and eye for photography to bring some of his most memorable work to life. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or seasoned artist, John’s story offers inspiration and practical insights that you can apply to your own craft.0:05 — Intro0:28 — About John Baloy1:17 — Start of John’s Career as a Full-Time Photographer4:30 — How John Captured His Favorite Portrait Photography12:00 — Making of John’s We The Creators Preset on VSCO (WE2)12:21 — Approach to Editing & Color Grading Photos17:17 — Finding Inspiration From Nature in Photography18:41 — Balancing Commercial Work & Artistic Vision22:52 — Shooting on Film to Retain Highlights in Photos24:12 — John’s Camera Gear (Pentax 67 & Fuji XH1)25:42 — Battling Creative Burnout as a Photographer27:50 — Building Community Over Following Commercial Standards30:39 — Advice for Younger Self & Emerging Creatives33:07 — Outro#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographertips #photographycareer #photographyjourney #portraitphotography #photographypodcast

In this episode of f/22, Zach from the VSCO team sits down with Atlanta photographer Branden May to discuss his street and architecture photography work. From his unique light and shadow techniques to creative influences, Branden shares valuable photography insights around finding your style, gaining exposure, overcoming self-doubt, and more.0:00 — Intro1:08 — About Branden May1:35 — Start of Branden’s Photography Career2:23 — Meaning Behind Branden’s Photography Alias “Bamtog”3:13 — Finding Inspiration From Photographers Like Fan Ho3:54 — Developing a Unique Photography Style6:06 — How Branden Captured His Favorite Street & Architecture Photography16:03 — Best Time to Shoot Shadows in Street & Architecture Photography17:18 — Location Scouting For Street & Architecture Photography19:31 — Branden’s Favorite Camera Gear (Nikon & Canon)21:50 — Auto vs. Manual Camera Modes22:55 — Editing Shadows, Highlights, & Colors on VSCO & Lightroom24:05 — Using VSCO, Galleries, & More to Get Exposure For Photography28:28 — Dealing With Imposter Syndrome as a Photographer29:11 — Advice For Aspiring Photographers30:12 — Outro#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographertips #photographycareer #photographyjourney #streetphotography #streetphotographer #atlantaphotographer #photographypodcast

In this episode of f/22, Zach from the VSCO team is joined by Bay Area photographer, videographer, and marketer Omeez Jones. Discover an insightful conversation where Omeez shares his journey from starting as a self-taught photographer to becoming a sought-after name working with notable clients such as Kevin Durant and Apple. Learn what it takes to break into photography, get your work in galleries, work with top-tier brands, and more to help elevate your photography career.0:00 — Intro0:36 — About Omeez Jones2:26 — Start of Omeez’s Photography Career3:33 — Favorite Photography Clients & Projects4:12 — Building a Network to Secure Major Photography Clients5:32 — Omeez’s Photo Editing Workflow on VSCO6:46 — Tips From a Gallery Owner for Getting Work Shown in a Gallery7:42 — Impact of Community on Omeez’s Photography Journey8:58 — Tips for Getting Photography Exposure With Brands10:16 — How Omeez Captures Wide-Angle Shots in Photography10:48 — Advice for Aspiring Photographers12:21 — Challenges of Getting Started in Photography13:21 — Photography Rule Omeez Likes to Break14:00 — Unpopular Opinion Around Film & Digital Photography14:35 — Biggest Myth About Being a Professional Photographer15:29 — Outro#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographertips #photographycareer #photographyjourney #photographyportfolio #careeradvice #sportsphotographer #sportsphotography #bayareaphotographer

In Part 2 of this f/22 episode, Zach from the VSCO team continues discussing multi-disciplinary creator Liza Gershman’s success as a seasoned photographer who has worked with major brands such as Williams Sonoma and Restoration Hardware. With 20 years of experience across diverse genres, Liza offers invaluable advice on maintaining quality work, building strong networking relationships, getting hired for photography jobs, and more. Dive into a conversation filled with practical tips and insightful wisdom to inspire your next steps in photography.Watch Part 1 of Liza’s f/22 interview to learn about getting your photography exhibited in art galleries.0:00 — Intro1:19 — Liza’s Reflection on Her 20-Year Photography Career3:55 — Staying Relevant Throughout a Lifelong Photography Career8:09 — Learnings From Wedding Photography, Mentors, & Darkroom Experience10:25 — Career Advice for Emerging Photographers13:40 — Quality Photography Work vs. Quality Network19:19 — Value of Professional Portfolio Reviews (Palm Springs Photo Festival, NYCFotoWorks, PPA)21:18 — Finding Inspiration From Different Mediums of Art23:28 — Networking Tips for Maintaining Contacts, Social Media, & More32:45 — Advice on Navigating Failure & Earning Respect as a Photographer36:06 — Importance of Tenacity & Perseverance38:27 — Outro#vscocam #photography #photographer #photographertips #photographycareer #photographyjourney #photographyportfolio #careeradvice

In Part 1 of this f/22 episode, Zach from the VSCO team sits down with multi-disciplinary creator Liza Gershman to explore the VSCO Gallery at SCOPE Art Show during Miami Art Week. Liza offers a behind-the-scenes look at the SCOPE Art Show experience, the process of curating a gallery, and the power of collaboration and networking in the creative industry. Whether you’re starting your journey or a seasoned photographer, get inspired by Liza’s 20-year career insights and creative spirit as you consider exhibiting your work in an art show. Learn more about VSCO’s Gallery, The Modern Contrast of the American Identity, at SCOPE Art Show - https://www.vsco.co/scope.0:00 — Intro1:10 — About Liza Gershman2:47 — Miami Art Week, SCOPE Art Show, & Miami Art Basel Overview3:55 — Designing VSCO’s Gallery at SCOPE Art Show5:53 — SCOPE Art Show Attendees (Buyers, Gallery Owners, Collectors, Students)7:17 — Process of Creating VSCO’s Gallery at SCOPE Art Show8:32 — Partnering With Level Frames, Bay Photo Lab, & Nørdikka Collective13:50 — Curating Photographs From the VSCO Community For the Exhibit16:21 — Preview of VSCO’s Gallery, “The Modern Contrast of the American Identity”17:10 — About the Photography Exhibited in VSCO’s Gallery20:45 — Feedback From Attendees of VSCO’s Gallery22:22 — Opportunities For Photographers After SCOPE Art ShowDiscover the additional photographers featured in VSCO’s Gallery at SCOPE Art Show:Tom Sanders – https://vsco.co/tomsandersphoto/galleryJake Myers – https://vsco.co/jakemyers/galleryWill Foerster – https://vsco.co/willfoerster/galleryEmily Jahr – https://vsco.co/emilyjahrco/galleryWeston Applegate – https://vsco.co/westonapplegate/galleryKyla Rys – https://vsco.co/kylarysphoto/galleryMartine Séverin – https://vsco.co/martineseverin/galleryDulce Bautista – https://vsco.co/dulcebautistafotos/gallerySpecial thanks to Level Frames, Bay Photo Lab, and Nørdikka Collective for being supporting partners of the exhibit.#VSCO #VSCOcam #photography #professionalphotographer #photographytips #artgallery #artexhibit #miamiartweek #artbaselmiamibeach #scopeartshow #artshows

In this episode of f/22, hosted by Zach from the VSCO team, multifaceted creative Squint shares how he’s built a successful photography career through trust, gratitude, and meaningful relationships. From photographing celebrities to showcasing his work on VSCO, Squint offers insight into his creative journey and the mindset that’s helped him grow. Whether you’re emerging or established, his perspective provides inspiration for leveling up your own photography career.Timestamps 0:00 — Intro1:09 — About Squint2:47 — Squint’s Start in Photography5:06 — Building Relationships With Notable Clients7:15 — Leveraging Your Network for Opportunities10:39 — Establishing Trust to Secure Clients12:47 — Overcoming Failure as a Photographer15:26 — Industry Shifts in Film, Digital, & Social Media17:08 — The Future of the Photography Industry18:27 — Squint’s Camera Gear (Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, & More)20:44 — VSCO Voices Grant’s Impact22:29 — Using VSCO as a Photography Website24:03 — The Value of Printing Your Work25:16 — Benefits of Mentoring & Teaching26:55 — Advice for Young Creatives Focusing on Craft29:21 — Quality Work vs. Social Media Algorithms33:38 — Using VSCO to Understand Creative Growth34:44 — Continuing to Grow as a Seasoned Photographer39:02 — What Aspiring Photographers Should Avoid41:02 — OutroIf you're not already a Member, Try out a free 7 day trial of VSCO Membership#VSCO #VSCOcam #celebrityphotographer #filmphotography #cameragear #leica #fujifilm #nikon #photography #professionalphotographer #photographytips #photographyportfolio

Dive into f/22 — a series where all things photography are brought into focus through conversations with photographers.In a discussion hosted by Zach from the VSCO team, American-Pakistani photographer Simrah Farrukh shares a snapshot into how she secures professional clients, gains reach for personal photo projects on VSCO, and more. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer starting your journey or a professional photographer looking to gain more exposure, uncover inspiration for finding your voice and making an impact in today’s photography landscape.See more from Simrah through her latest photography blog, Karachi in Motion.0:00 — Intro0:45 — About Simrah Farrukh1:44 — Simrah’s Start in Photography4:23 — Getting Discovered by Professional Photography Clients7:03 — Is Art School Needed for Your Photography Career?9:14 — Pakistan Photography Project: Karachi In Motion14:46 — How to Deal With Disappointment as a Photographer17:17 — Is a Video Frame Considered a Photograph?19:27 — Tips for Storytelling Through Photos20:47 — Using VSCO Blogs to Expand the Reach of Your Photography22:33 — Getting Exposure & Advocating for Yourself as a Photographer25:18 — How to Build a Network of Photography Clients27:04 — Photography Industry & Economy Changes After COVID-1929:55 — Simrah’s Camera Gear (Digital Cameras, Film Cameras, & Lenses)31:54 — Advice for Aspiring Photographers33:29 — Outro#VSCO #VSCOcam #CameraGear #Sony #Contax #Photography #ProfessionalPhotographer #PhotographyTips