Conversations with Bryan Berry

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bryan Berry.

Hi Bryan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Bryan Berry, I’m a freelance photographer living between the Bay Area & Los Angeles. My story begins in my adolescent years; I picked up a camera at an early age. There was just something about capturing a moment in time that was so dope to me. My grandmother had shelves full of photo albums with everyone’s photos in them—from distant relatives to people from the neighborhood. The colors, the wardrobe, the energy, and the feeling those images portrayed all influenced my style. I wanted to be able to create that same feeling through my work.

Over time, that passion developed into a career. Fast forward 15 years later since I picked up a camera & I have the privilege to wake up and do what I love everyday.

It really started my sophomore year of high school when it was time to choose an elective. I had seen all these kids having fun, running around campus taking photos, and I thought, I need to do that.

What started as a reason to be outside during fourth period turned into a life-changing passion—one that I eventually built a life and career around.

From 2010 to 2015, while studying at Sacramento State, I spent time in Los Angeles every chance I got: summer break, winter break, spring break. I had a dream of eventually moving there and jumpstarting my career. In 2017, I finally made the move, and the rest is history.

One of the biggest factors that got me to where I am today was building a community. I found mentors and friends who played a huge role in nurturing my passion and helping me grow. From being on set together and dividing and conquering, to connecting the dots and opening doors for one another, I learned early that none of this is possible as a one-man band. Community means everything. Being inspired by those around me also played a part in striving for consistent growth in my field.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road definitely gets bumpy at times. You have to learn how to weather the storm.

There were plenty of obstacles along the way. One of the biggest challenges was balancing being a full-time student with pursuing photography professionally. There were opportunities I had to turn down because people didn’t always respect the fact that I had school obligations and couldn’t just pick up and leave whenever an opportunity came up. I missed out on some big opportunities early on because of that.

At times, it felt like I was choosing between survival and living—doing what I needed to do to get by versus making the sacrifices necessary to build the life I actually wanted.

Then 2020 happened, and like so many people, I had to navigate a completely different landscape. It taught me even more about adapting, staying resilient, and understanding that setbacks are part of the journey.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a commercial, editorial, and fashion photographer whose work is deeply rooted in the West Coast music scene. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to help shape how artists are represented through press imagery, album covers, and visual campaigns.

Some of the work I’m most proud of includes a long list of musicians I’ve had the opportunity to work with. What makes those projects especially meaningful to me is that they’ve grown out of years of consistent collaboration. I’ve always found more value in building something together over time than simply working for hire. The trust that comes from those relationships allows the work to evolve naturally and become more personal. In addition to my photography, the opportunity to help others is included in some of the work I’m proud of – it is such a rewarding feeling. On the humanitarian side of things I’ve had the opportunity to give back to the community and create opportunities for others through my net worth. I’ve always had a dream of being a well known photographer but also to inspire and help others.

My photography has appeared on billboards, in coffee-table books, and across some of the top publications in the United States. Seeing my work reach places I never imagined is always an incredible feeling.

What sets me apart from others is my upbringing and the perspective it gave me. I consider myself multifaceted, and that allows me to move comfortably through different environments & connect with different types of people.

For me, that ability to connect is just as important as the photograph. People have to trust you before they can truly let you see them. I think that trust is a major reason I’m able to create images that feel raw and authentic to what/who I photograph.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Master the fundamentals, then start developing a style that separates you from everyone else. Make your work recognizable.
And most importantly, just shoot. Whether you’re getting paid or not, keep creating. Every opportunity is a chance to sharpen your skill.

If there’s anything I wish I knew when I was starting out, it would be this:

-Find a mentor. Having someone who has already walked the road you’re trying to travel can save you years of trial and error.

-Treat freelancing like a 9-to-5. Structure your days. Create systems. Take yourself seriously. Treat yourself like a brand early on. There’s nothing wrong with acting big until you get there. Over time, the systems, the work, and the opportunities start to catch up with the vision.

-Protect your work. Learn copyright laws. Understand contracts, rates, usage, licensing, and the value of everything you put on the table. Know what you’re giving away when someone asks for certain terms & usage.

-Put in the work. You can’t cheat the grind.

– Keep your name in good report.

-Walk by faith. Make the move. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries. Don’t play it safe just because it’s comfortable. You have to be willing to bet on yourself before everyone else sees the vision.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bryanberryphoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bryanberry/?hl=en

Image Credits
Personal PC / Julian Edward