Today we’d like to introduce you to Corey O’Kelley.
Hi Corey, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
For me, the photography journey began in two different places. I played in a local metal band called GBAD for several years. At the time, we were on a tight budget, essentially doing everything in house. A couple of us began experimenting with photography and videography to create content for ourselves. Once the pandemic hit and live music came to a screeching halt, a few of us from the band began hiking religiously as a means to get out of the house. That’s where I really found a passion in photography. I never really thought it would be something I would dive deeper into, but the more we hiked the more we started looking for places to venture to based on the shots we wanted to capture. After that, I started taking a lot of photos for my girlfriend Kendall’s Instagram feed and that was when I realized, “Hey, I might actually be decent at this.” At that point, I started taking photography more serious – buying better gear, seeking out inspiration from other photographers, and looking into arranging actual shoots.
Nowadays, I’m doing more branding shoots than anything. I really do enjoy them, but at home I find myself staging product shots more than anything.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Honestly, it has been a pretty smooth road to get where I am today. My girlfriend, my friends, and family have all been extremely supportive, which isn’t a luxury that everybody has. So for that, I am extremely grateful. They recommend me to their friends, families and clients all the time.
The biggest struggle I’ve had is either teaching myself different lighting and editing techniques, especially in Photoshop, or growing my online presence in the nightmare that is Instagram’s constantly changing algorithms and focuses.
We’ve been impressed with LENS, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
LENS is essentially the online presence I am trying to create for myself as a photographer. I personally think it is really important to have a separate page, whether it be Instagram, a website, online store, etc… from your personal. A place to showcase your work that is separate from your day to day life.
As far as my specialties, I would say I’ve become quite the fan of both product photography and branding shoots/portraits. I think those two areas are when I showcase my abilities best.
If I had to pick one thing that I am most proud of regarding LENS it would be that I have my own style. Of course, like everybody else, I draw inspiration from other artists but I think I have my own style at this point. I can shoot and edit to any style a client requests, but I much prefer to have a little bit of freedom to do what I do. I think conforming to a strict style or forcing your style on a client becomes limiting. The best results come from two parties bringing their thoughts together to create something unique.
What does success mean to you?
Success to me is waking up and doing what you WANT to do. Some people work for themselves, others report to a boss or company. Either path is completely fine as long as you are living a sustainable life, doing something that brings you a sense of fulfillment, and makes you happy at the end of the day.
Contact Info:
- Email: lensphoto.official@gmail.com
- Website: www.lensphotographs.com
- Instagram: @lensphotographs_
