Kensington sits down with Ryan Brandoff of Brandoff Photography....
Though photography has become one of the most popular artistic mediums of the 21st century, thanks to the numerous technological devices available, it still remains a mysterious craft. As one scrolls through photographs on any social media platform, taking stock of the moments that capture and characterize the most precious moments of life, true portraiture remains ineffable. Which is why Ryan Brandoff’s work is so extraordinary. There is such professionalism imbued in each photograph, the viewer becomes transfixed by the subject, and forgets for a moment that they are looking at an image. It is no wonder that Brandoff cites photographers such as Vivian Maier, Yousef Karsh, and Steve MuCurry as influences. He possesses the unique ability to allow his client’s personalities to shine forth, which makes for photographs that stand the test of time. A true student of the form, Brandoff apprenticed under a photographer for two years as he was getting his professional bearings, which allowed him to seamlessly blend the line between his craft and his calling. He is a firm believer that one should never stop learning and exploring the medium, and with over 35 weddings a year, in addition to the many other professional photographic pursuits, his explorations and options are endless. His work has been featured in the Huffington Post, and he has had the opportunity to photograph celebrities such as actor/director Freddy Rodriguez, and America’s Got Talented Finalist, Cas Haley. And yet despite his skill, it is his personality and his love for people that shines through the most. He truly loves what he does, and loves the people for whom he does it.
Though photography has become one of the most popular artistic mediums of the 21st century, thanks to the numerous technological devices available, it still remains a mysterious craft. As one scrolls through photographs on any social media platform, taking stock of the moments that capture and characterize the most precious moments of life, true portraiture remains ineffable. Which is why Ryan Brandoff’s work is so extraordinary. There is such professionalism imbued in each photograph, the viewer becomes transfixed by the subject, and forgets for a moment that they are looking at an image. It is no wonder that Brandoff cites photographers such as Vivian Maier, Yousef Karsh, and Steve MuCurry as influences. He possesses the unique ability to allow his client’s personalities to shine forth, which makes for photographs that stand the test of time. A true student of the form, Brandoff apprenticed under a photographer for two years as he was getting his professional bearings, which allowed him to seamlessly blend the line between his craft and his calling. He is a firm believer that one should never stop learning and exploring the medium, and with over 35 weddings a year, in addition to the many other professional photographic pursuits, his explorations and options are endless. His work has been featured in the Huffington Post, and he has had the opportunity to photograph celebrities such as actor/director Freddy Rodriguez, and America’s Got Talented Finalist, Cas Haley. And yet despite his skill, it is his personality and his love for people that shines through the most. He truly loves what he does, and loves the people for whom he does it.
Following is a short interviews conducted between Kensington Florals and Events, and Ryan Brandoff. For information and access to Ryan’s portfolio/website, please scroll to the end of the article.
Kensington: What kind of camera do you use?
Brandoff: Canon 5D3, Canon 7D2, 5D2, 60D
K: Why did you choice that?
B: This equipment had the highest rating among photographers and the best lens selections
K: What got you into this field?
B: [It was a] natural progression. I went from photographing events and portraits on separate occasions, to combining them on a wedding day.
K: Did you have formal training? Or did you learn on the go?
B: Yes, I had formal training. I was an apprentice with a photographer for 2 years.
K: What is your favorite moment with a couple?
B: The portraits. That's where my art really gets to show.
K: What is your favorite element of the wedding/event industry?
B: It's a culmination of all the skills learned throughout my career, and I get to work with the best people on the happiest day of their lives.
K: Do you have a favorite memory?
B: When I had to conduct a ceremony because the officiant didn't show. Yes, I am an ordained minister.
K: What is the strangest shot a couple has asked for?
B: The bridal party running away from zombies. Needless to say, Photoshop was needed.
K: Who are three photographer you look up to/ inspire you?
B: Steve MuCurry, Yousuf Karsh, Vivian Maier.
-Steve MuCurry has the incredible ability to capture raw emotion in a single image. His pictures speak not 1000 words, but more like 1,000,000.
-Yousuf Karsh's images are some of the most famous portraits ever captured. His impeccable composition and technical execution aside, he is able to capture his subjects in a way that represents their entire personality in a single image.
-Vivian Maier, much like Yousef, is again able to capture expressions and emotions, not in a studio like Yousef, but through street photography, or perhaps to say a more "journalistic" approach.
K: What piece of advice would you give to a couple in choosing a photographer?
B: Always make sure that personalities match...Its very important to choose my skill, but personality can make or break the day.
K: Was there ever been a moment you thought you missed but upon editing realized you captured?
B: Not really. I'm very adamant about making sure that everything is checked and re-checked.
K: What do you feel are the pros and cons of the wedding/event industry?
B: Pros: Fun and exciting, the artistry, the beautiful venues, great food, and the fact that every wedding is different
Cons: Long hours, a lot "on the line", no re-dos
K: What piece of advice would you give to an aspiring photographer?
B: Never stop learning, and never get jaded or over confident.
K: What is that something special you give to your clients?
B: I give the personality, skill, and experience. I like to think that I people never have to guess if the shots are going to be good.
K: Do you have any deals/special offers going on you would like to mention?
B: All wedding packages booked before Valentines day are 5% off
K: What contact info should we include in your blog? (number, address, email, website link)
B: Ryan Brandoff Photography
K: Anything about yourself/the business/the industry you would like to talk about?
B: I was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, and currently living in the Chicago neighborhood Old Irving Park. I live with my wife Lauren and our pet reptile family. I am 27 years old, I was married in October of 2012 and love to spend time playing and listening to music, cooking, riding bicycles through the city, long cruises on my motorcycle, and am active in my church.
My work has been used by many non-for profit organizations, as well as many local and national businesses. I've been featured in articles for The Huffington Post, and as well as other smaller web-based news channels. My photos have been used for nationally distributed product catalogs, and I've also have had opportunities to photograph well-known celebrities such as actor/director Freddy Rodriquez and nationally touring musical recording artist and 2nd place winner on America's Got Talent; Cas Haley. On average I shoot 35 weddings a year, as well as countless model, portrait, and other miscellaneous events and sessions.
I take great pride in my work and some would call me a little bit of a nerd...
I take great pride in my work and some would call me a little bit of a nerd...
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