August 30, 2023

031: Capturing Fleeting, Fluid, and Fragile Moments with CGI

Capturing fleeting

EPISODE SUMMARY

Ever caught yourself yearning to break the mold of standard photography, to add a spark, something unusually remarkable to your work, capturing fleeting moments? If you answered yes, yes, uh, YES, then you should wander into the mystery-filled realm of CGI.

Steve Hansen is here to reveal the heart of his expedition into this intriguing world of CGI. He talks about how it beautifully collided with his photography and shaped and enriched his work. Walking us through his journey, Steve unfolds the realms CGI flung open for him. The awe-inspiring imagery he could materialize for his clients and the freedom to evolve his artistic and technical skills. He talks about capturing fleeting moments.

Whether you are an experienced photographer carrying around scruples of wisdom or a novice nurturing a seed of curiosity about photography, Hansen’s poignant revelations on CGI promise not just to enlighten but to inspire. So lend us your ears, let’s bask in the warmth of shared understanding, and together, let’s see how CGI can transform your perspective and elevate your artistry in photography. A fascinating conversation awaits.

About Steve

Steve Hansen is a Seattle-based food photographer, director, and CGI artist. He spent 18 years as a cook and chef at some of the best restaurants in the world, including Le Cirque, Restaurant Daniel, and the Herbfarm Restaurant. During his time as a private chef, he began the transition to photography, assisting both photographers and food stylists before opening his own studio in 2018.


Episode Breakdown

  • Steve Hansen’s background in culinary arts and how it has influenced his approach to food photography
  • Importance of understanding your subject matter in photography
  • Benefits of collaborating with food stylists and chefs
  • Tips for approaching chefs and food stylists for collaborations
  • Importance of developing a cohesive visual identity in photography
  • How to refine your visual identity over time
  • Steve Hansen’s lighting and styling techniques in food photography
  • How to hone your own style over time
  • Importance of problem solving and troubleshooting in photography
  • Benefits of learning CGI in photography
  • Importance of time and patience in developing your skills and visual identity as a photographer
  • Tips for building relationships in the photography industry
  • How to make clients’ visions a reality through collaboration and problem solving
  • Importance of being committed to refining your visual identity as you add new skills to your set

Resources

  1. ASMP (American Society of Media Photographers)
  2. Francesco Tonelli (photographer)
  3. SideFX (makers of Houdini)
  4. YouTube channel of SideFX
  5. V Ray (render engine)
  6. RenderMan (Pixar’s primary render engine)
  7. Redshift (render engine)
  8. CG Garage (podcast by Chaos Group)

Transcript

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