Meet the Team: How to Run a Photo Studio Even Your Grandmother Can Understand

"My grandmother never understood what I do for a living. She would say something like, 'So you create those ads on the interwebs?' The answer was always 'sort of.' My role here at Reactor Media is Co-Founder and Photographer.

I rely on Tyler and Kris as my eyes and ears on set, as well as for assistance when I need additional resources.

We recently had a shoot with a client who makes frozen burritos. I had an amazing crew that Tyler and Kris lined up. I conveyed the creative vision to our lighting director, who then translated my words into an awesome lighting setup. When the client mentioned that the specific type of flour tortilla that was supposed to be shipped was wrong, I had Tyler arrange for the correct ones to be sent to the set.

I work with our digital tech to ensure file names are correct and that we are selecting the best files on the go, making sending things off to retouching a breeze. I mostly run the camera, directing lighting to move flags and reflectors into frame. Sometimes I can't be behind the camera, so we have the digital tech fire it. I'm responsible for focus and framing. When working with models, I give them cues and guidance for poses that complement the products we are photographing.

I always like to keep the mood on set happy and fun. We are creating assets that help sell products, so we need a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Music plays a part in creating that atmosphere, and our digital tech has one of the best playlists you can imagine.