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The Words of Rob Berry – Bespoke Delegate

THE PHOTOGRAPHER

What was the turning point that triggered you to change career and become a photographer?

Working for my dads company in the marketing department for two years I really felt I needed to get out there and do it for myself. I was always a keen happy snapper and would always borrow the company’s DSLR on the weekends but not really knowing what I was doing with it.  After getting a Nikon D90 for Christmas I really wanted to learn what I was doing. I started a night course at my local college and caught the bug and here I am.

What has been fundamental for you in your path to become a photographer?

Just going for it! I could have easily stayed in my old job and slowly built my photography business. But going 130% means my business is going from strength to strength.

Where does your inspiration come from and how do you inspire yourself as a photographer?

I regularly read fashion magazines! I love taking inspiration from the fashion house adverts; they are edgy, out there and full of ideas that I apply to my work.

What is the most significant thing that is helping your development?

The Bespoke program run by CPT. I have found that my photography comes quite naturally but I struggle with the business side of things as I am new to all this. The guys at CPT are really helping to develop that side of me.

Who are your photographic heroes?

Patrick Demarchelier for his fashion and portrait work and Brent Striton (A senior staff photographer for the assignment division of Getty Images) for his travel photography.

What advice would you give to somebody about to explore becoming a photographer?

Get some good training and go for it, best thing I have ever done.

ON TOUR

The images you have captured are exceptional, as there is so much feeling within each image.  How do you prepare for a trip of this nature, which must be packed with emotion for you as a photographer?

To be honest you can’t prepare emotionally for a trip, you never know what a trip can throw at you.

How do you ensure you take the best care of those you photograph?

It was great, this time I went to Uganda. I got to meet the family of a boy that I have sponsored for the last year. It was so humbling they literally have nothing but still gave me a turkey to show their gratitude, yes a turkey it’s a big deal, that turkey would have fed the family for weeks.

What matters most to you when on tour?

Putting the camera down and getting involved with the people from the charity and the locals.

What is your ultimate goal, emotionally and photographically?

I want to bring the connection that I feel through the lenses and the eyes of the subject to the public/customer.

BUSINESS

What business advice would you give as you have built the business?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and never undersell yourself to the people you know.

If you could change 2 things about the business what would they be?

To be able to do more travel photography and  to not have to do paperwork!!

In your view, what does every business need when developing?

Something I have found really helpful is doing a personal business plan. In this I asked myself questions like;

• Where do I see myself in 6months, 1 year and in 5 years?
• If my product was music, a car or food what type would it be?

I regularly look back at this and it helps me stay true to where I really want to be.

What is the best business tip you have heard and from whom?

“Firings will continue until morale improves.” Unknown

FUTURE – DREAMS AND AMBITIONS

What would you like the future to hold?

The sky is the limit! I am only 24 and I am learning so much. The main focus for me is to continue to build a successful lifestyle portraiture photography business. I am also planning 2 trips for 2010 to Jamaica in March and Vietnam late on in the year. So Watch this space.