Speaker profile: Sam Sciarrino

‘What does not change are the fundamental principles of lighting and composition. You must understand how it all works.’

Imagemaker: Tell us a little about your background
I’m a second-generation photographer who grew up in the industry. At 27, I received a masters degree from Professional Photographers of Canada and at 28, I got the same qualification from Professional Photographers of America.

Why photography?
At an early age I had an eye for composition and light.

Film or digital? Is there still a place for silver halide?
Digital is the way to go as the quality of the files and image-enhancing tools are a lot more precise.

Tell us about your capture and output devices
I use medium format cameras with Phase One digital backs to capture, and output with
Capture One software. Medium format gives me the quality of images I need for my own style of high-end portraiture.

Why would I (as a customer) come to you?
I offer low volume, high-end photography with a quality service.

The problem with professional photographers today is…
No business skills and no fundamental understanding of lighting and composition.

Are you excited by the evolution of imaging?
I am enjoying the new tools, but what does not change are the fundamental principles of lighting and composition. You must understand how it all works.

Is it getting harder or easier to make a decent living?
A basic understanding of how to run a business has never changed and it is vitally important, along with lighting and composition, to make a decent living.

How do you stay ahead of the game?
You must be a professional in all aspects of business to stay ahead of your rivals.

How do organisations like The Societies help?
It helps bring photographers together so they can share and improve their working practices. Those who run high quality operations can inspire a photographer; they can use their experiences and business models to help make their own career a success.

Your own mentors (living or dead)
Tibor Horvath, Don Blair, Monte Zucker

Would you want your own children to take up the reins of your empire (or have they?)
No, this is a very difficult business to succeed in; you need to be on top of your game.

Your plans for the next five years?
To operate a high-end boutique style photography studio along with workshops to give back some of my knowledge and experience and inspire photographers around the world.

Back to the Convention

What our members say
Why I like the Societies: I'm not that long a member yet but at least I like Professional Imagemaker. - Nann K
Find out more about the Societies here

Convention testimonials Jacqui Dunbar: Fantastic time at the 2012 Convention, lots of learning, networking and a couple of purchases. Looking forward to 2013!
Find out more about the Convention here

Photo Quote: To take photographs means to recognize - simultaneously and within a fraction of a second - both the fact itself and the rigorous organization of visually perceived forms that give it meaning. It is putting one's head, one's eye and one's heart on the same axis. - Henri Cartier-Bresson

There are 227 days to get ready for the SWPP Convention and Trade Show at The Hilton London Metropole Hotel ...
which starts on Tuesday 8th January 2013