Skyler Burt of We Eat Together Shares the Scoop on Food Photography
Ever felt like your head is spinning with all the things you should be doing as a photographer? Like, market yourself more, learn all the new tech gadgets, try a million different styles, a la We Eat Together, and still have time to actually take photos? Whew, it’s exhausting just thinking about it!
Well, I had an amazing conversation with Skyler Burt on the latest episode of The Savory Shot, and let me tell you, it was a breath of fresh air. Skyler is the real deal, a photographer, educator, and the creative genius behind the YouTube channel We Eat Together.
We dove into the nitty-gritty of the photography world – from the struggles of balancing passion projects with paying gigs, to the ups and downs of social media. Skyler was so refreshingly honest about the challenges, but also incredibly inspiring about the possibilities.
So, what were the big takeaways?
- Find Your Passion: Skyler emphasizes that it’s essential to find your niche, something you’re genuinely excited about photographing. Don’t just chase trends; follow your heart.
- Stay True to Yourself: Authenticity is key! Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Embrace your unique style and let your personality shine through in your work.
- Community Over Competition: Remember, we’re all in this together. Connect with other photographers, share your struggles, and lift each other up.
- Embrace the Imperfect: Running a creative business is messy, and that’s okay. Give yourself grace, learn from your mistakes, and keep moving forward.
- Keep Learning & Growing: The photography world is constantly evolving, so don’t get stuck in a rut. Experiment with new techniques, try different styles, and never stop learning.
Skyler’s honesty and wisdom were a total game-changer for me, and I know they will be for you too. So, if you’re a photographer who’s feeling a little lost, overwhelmed, or just in need of some encouragement, do yourself a favor and listen to this episode. It’s like having coffee with a wise friend who totally gets it.
About Skyler
Skyler Burt is a food and product photographer and director based out of Los Angeles and Dallas. He has traveled the globe for over 15 years, shooting, directing, and editing projects for world-class clients.
Some of his print and commercial clients include Shakey’s, PizzaHut, Samsung, Belcampo, Tippsy, Altos, Espanita, Sunset Magazine, Southern Living, Forbes Traveler, Lonely Planet, Shangri La Resorts, The Chedi Muscat, Ritz Carlton, Marriott, Pelican Hill Resort, UCLA
He has also photographed for a variety of agencies including, R\West, TBWA, Leo Burnett, YnR, and Wunderman.
Episode Breakdown
- Skyler emphasizes the importance of technique over expensive gear.
- Discussion on buying used versus new photography equipment.
- Skyler advises renting high-end gear for professional shoots.
- Key lenses for food photography: wide, 50mm, and macro.
- Skyler shares about his experience teaching photography in the Middle East.
- Shift to food photography due to easier indoor shooting conditions.
- The significance of education in mastering photography techniques.
- Balancing YouTube content creation with professional photography work.
- Challenges of maintaining a consistent YouTube posting schedule.
- Skyler explains the impact of viewer preferences on photography trends.
- Discussion on the potential and limitations of AI in photography.
Action Checklist
- Spend 30 minutes today decluttering your workspace.
- Reach out to one potential client this week.
- Schedule one hour of uninterrupted shooting time.
- Practice one new photography or editing technique.
- Identify and write down three specific goals for the month.
- Connect with another photographer online or in person.
- Review your portfolio and select one image to improve.
- Take a break from social media for 24 hours.
we eat together
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