Wale A. » Feb 18, 2011
RM Talk: Kevin Luc Photography
This publication of RM Talk is with a Photographer I actually found via Model Mayhem Toronto. I was breezing through photos on the MM Facebook page and saw a particular range of photos that got my attention. I kept looking at the caption for each one and noticed it was the same person. I was really impressed and thought I had to hit this dude up. I present to you Kevin Luc Photography.
Kevin Luc
Toronto, Ontario
Classic Canon 5D, Sigma 20mm f/1.8, Canon 50mm f/1.8, Canon 100mm f/2.8 Macro with several different flashes and modifiers.
First off, how did you learn photography, did you go to school for it or is it something you just picked up on your own?
Prior to taking school at Algonquin College in Ottawa for studio portraiture, I was an automotive photographer (self taught) for several magazines.
What is in your equipment toolbox: cameras, lenses etc…?
I am currently shooting with the:
- Canon 5D
- Sigma 20mm f/1.8
- Canon 50mm f/1.8
- Canon 100mm f/2.8 Macro with several different flashes and modifiers
This setup hasn’t changed much over the years. It’s not fancy, but it works!
What is the most important equipment to you?
I’m not too picky with equipment in general but I’m a huge fan of using my flashes! Although natural light can be nice, I love having control.
How do you usually go about a typical end-to-end photo session?
After setting up a time and date for the session with the model, makeup artist, hair stylist and wardrobe stylist, I generally setup my lighting equipment and do as many test shots as I need. After shooting the model, I upload the photos to my computer, make my selections and adjustments in Adobe Lightroom, then make any finishing touches in Adobe Photoshop. I then make a web gallery with Lightroom and submit the link to my client.
Does anything inspire you when going into a photo session?
I’m constantly being inspired by the world around me. Prior to the shoot, I like to see the model’s portfolio to see their strengths and diversity. I’ll also cycle through photos I’ve saved and check my favourites on my Flickr account as well.
What are your thoughts on Film photography vs. Digital photography and which do you prefer or use the most?
My setup is completely digital. Shooting film is still satisfying and exciting but I don’t believe there’s much place for it with today’s digital technology.
Do you prefer shooting subjects vs. objects?
Because I shot strictly automotive in the past, I feel I can make a fair comparison. I much prefer shooting people because there is two way communication and building the relationship is important for a good connection with the model to the camera. It’s also more satisfying seeing a satisfied subject with photos of theselves versus a happy car owner.
It is nice to see someone from Toronto doing their thing. Toronto is a city filled with Creatives and Arts, how do you try to distinguish yourself from the pack and has it been difficult or fairly smooth?
It is definitely difficult being in such a big city. I try to keep up with web presence through my blog, Twitter, Facebook etc. I’m always trying to get myself out there in new ways even though there are more photographers to compete with every day. I also don’t like to wait around when I don’t have shoots booked. I love shooting creatives for fun.
First of all the quality of your photography is top notch. Your work seem to look more like editorial shots for magazines, is this co-incidental or is it more of a preference, though I did notice you have done work for a few magazines?
My style has definitely always been commercial trying to keep it as clean as possible. I also try to keep retouching to a minimum so I try to do it right the first time around with my in camera composition and lighting setup.
Based on your portfolio, do you prefer more of the Fashion/Glamour photo shoots? Also do you have a team doing the makeup/wardrobe for the subjects or do the models come prepared, because everything is quite sharp and detailed?
I’m more of a fashion photographer and have barely done anyting glamour. It’s not something I’ve written off but the opportunity hasn’t arisen. I always try my best to get a full team for the shoot because I do believe it is important to work with a good crew of people who have their own specialty. It always makes my job easier and takes the load off the model as well.
You have a pretty impressive list of big name clients you have done work for, how have you been able to acquire such gigs over a short period of time?
Photography is all about networking. I’ve been lucky enough to make some good connections and make some clients in return. There are the rare times someone calls from searching on Google but for the most part, it’s all through people you know. In this industry, it helps to be a nice guy!
I noticed you have a dedicated category of photos just for the Automotive. You and I seem to share the same passion for cars. What is it about the Automobile that gets you excited and do you have a favorite Auto Session you did?
I’ve always been a huge car fan my entire life and that’s why I started photography in the first place. You generally shoot what you love. My personal favourite automotive photo is the Nissan 240SX underneath the spider at the Ottawa Art Gallery. I only had the opportunity for one photo so I quickly took it and ran back into the car! It was the perfect time of day with dramatic skies and gorgeous reflections on the car.
Overall, do you have a favorite photo session and why?
My favourite photoshoot was probably a recent one I did for Dat Salon for the salon’s entry for the L’Oreal Color competition. We shot it next to the hair salon in a defunct woodworking studio. It’s my favourite because I had a great team, location and my lighting setup turned out better than I could imagine. I generally keep lighting setups minimal but I went all out for this one.
Is there anything else exciting that you are looking forward to in this new year?
So far, I’m just keeping my old clients satisfied with new work because I think it’s important to maintain a good relationship and repeat business is great. I hope to be overwhelmed in the Spring and Summer to make 2011 the best year yet for Kevin Luc Photography!
From a car enthusiast to another car enthusiast, if money was no factor, what dream car would you acquire?
If money wasn’t a factor, I think I’d go for a Pagani Zonda. I think it’s BEAUTIFUL!
Very good pick my friend. The Zonda is not only beautiful but has one of the best sounds I have ever heard from any automobile, including Ferrari.
There you have it. If you are in the Toronto area and needing a photographer, you can’t go wrong with Kevin. Quality work, amazing Portfolio and positive energy. Stay tuned for the next RM Talk.
[...] Wale from Reel Models hit me up for an interview. Check it out here! [...]
Love his work and photography!