Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Danenberg.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve been a photographer for about 7 years. Back in Chicago where I’m from, I first bought a camera to help document the band that I was managing. After photographing artists that I was helping manage, I moved to Los Angeles a little over 5 years ago to pursue my passion in the entertainment industry. I began by shooting concerts and events for artists of many kinds. I worked my way up and started shooting for publications and record labels in Los Angeles. One of the things that helped boost me into the Los Angeles scene when I moved here was being named as one of the top concert photographers in Los Angeles by CBS LA. While I know there are so many other photographers that I admire that didn’t make the list, it was really cool to see my name up there.
After becoming very experienced in music photography, I began working on portraiture and other event photography. I have an extensive portfolio that I’m very proud of. I am constantly trying to become a better photographer and take on new types of clients that I can help create great imagery for. I currently do lots of event and portrait photography. And of course you can always spot me shooting sunsets and beautiful scenery in my free time.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Being a freelancer is difficult. It may seem like an easy job, but it is far from it. Us photographers work very long hours editing photos, marketing the business, and networking for new clients. When I first started out, it was very hard to find clients that were willing to pay me for my services because I didn’t have all the experience or referrals. It wasn’t until I created a vast portfolio and made a name for myself on social media over the years that I started to see more clients reach out. I always had to be persistent and stay in contact with those that I networked with.
Another piece of photography that many may not understand well are the fine details in licensing images or contract agreements. I taught myself a lot about licensing images and have been able to successfully do so which was a nice accomplishment. I learned a lot about contractual agreements in college, which was very useful over the years. Learning about the legal details behind photography and imagery was definitely a challenge, but I feel very comfortable in what I’ve learned and always have resources available to help me along the way.
Please tell us about Mike Danenberg Photography.
I am a freelance photographer specializing in live concerts, events, and headshots. I am more likely known for my concert work. I’ve been shooting for Interscope Records for a few years and I do lots of work with Universal Studios Hollywood including their Halloween Horror Nights and New Year’s Eve events. My photographs have been featured all over in publications such as People Magazine, Rolling Stone, GQ Magazine, E! Online, and many others. I’m most proud of being able to get into those types of publications in the amount of time I’ve been shooting.
In the photography community, I like to stay supportive of those around me. I find that helping others in your profession goes a long way with your business. I guess what may set me apart from some photographers is my work ethic. Although I do know many photographers with great work ethics. I always make a point to act professional and be memorable to work with. I’m big on planning things early and will always deliver my work fast. Many times I deliver my work by the next day or very soon after. I’ve never made a client wait longer than 3 days after the shoot to view my work. I find that the music industry needs to be kept at a fast pace and I’m always ready for what’s coming next.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I am pretty proud of that path that I’ve chosen, but I think it would have been more beneficial to have started photographing things out of my element a little earlier. As a photographer, you always want to improve, and I didn’t get into much portrait work until a few years ago. I wish I would have started that back before I moved to LA. It would have helped develop my craft much faster. But I’m always improving and gaining experience in my profession.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.MikeDanenberg.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @mikedanenberg
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/mikedanenbergphotography
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikedanenberg
Image Credit:
Clark Terrell *For the personal photo only. All photos by Mike Danenberg
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