Today we’d like to introduce you to Andy Carter.
Hi Andy, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I first started doing photography in college at Mercer University. Through the years, I have worked in editorial, event, wedding, and portrait photography but the one through line has been automotive photography. My first published work was in the late 2000s as the online automotive blog world formed through sites like Atlanta-based Southrnfresh and S3 Magazine, as well as Canibeat.com, one of the most popular sites at the time. Since then, I have worked with dozens of other publications and companies, including Honda and Nitto Tire. Currently, the majority of my work is with Bring-a-Trailer, the largest online automotive auction company, where I serve on their White Glove Service team and photography classic and collector cars across the United States.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Just like any other freelance photographer would probably admit, there is always the fear that your last job, regardless of however good it may have been, could have been your last. As trends rise and fall, companies and publications lose funding, change their focus, or flat out go away. Finding the balance between taking every job to stay diverse, and guarding your own time and sanity has been a challenge since the beginning, and will always continue to exist in some way.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
For my work with auction photography, much of the challenge is being sent to an unknown setting with limited time and being expected to produce excellent work. For example, a typical job is to visit a seller, often their residence, and in three hours time, document the car through several hundred images. Finding the right setting and the right light in almost always a challenge, but I’ve developed an eye to find those small spaces in what can be boring environments, and with experience in my equipment and an awareness of available light, produce sets that show off cars to potential buyers.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My greatest champion and supporter is my wife, Aimee Carter, who consistently cheers me on, keeps me in focus, and helps me work through the details and logistics of travel.
Joseph Dale of Southrnfresh was the first one to see my talent in automotive photography, and the first to publish my work. His work in building and maintaining a place for Atlanta car culture is unmatched.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://andycarterphoto.com
- Instagram: andycarterphoto
Image Credits
Andy Carter
