Meet Russell Sturtevant of Point Blank Shot photography in Ventura

Today we’d like to introduce you to Russell Sturtevant.

Russell, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started going to comic conventions in 2016 and fell in love with the costuming and talents of the cosplayers that were in attendance. After I retired from the Navy, I purchased my first camera and began taking photos of my friends. I began traveling outside of California to conventions across the country taking photos.

In 2018, I was invited to be a staff photographer and writer for Temple of Geek, a website that covers all things geek culture related from movies to comics, video games, and conventions. I also contract location shoots, newborn photography, as well as portrait images.

Being a freelance photographer with a dedicated outlet for showcasing the talents of cosplayers in the LA area has been a dream come true!

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
With any adventure, there are always some rough patches in the road. One of the biggest hurdles I have had to overcome is balancing family life with my professional life.

As a single father of three boys, I have to prioritize my time and make sure that they are taken care of first. Luckily, they have taken to photography as well and join me at conventions and have gotten some great shots and angles that I don’t see.

Another struggle is dealing with those at conventions that don’t respect the cosplayers and take inappropriate photos without consent. I am a huge supporter of the #cosplayisnotconsent movement and actively promote those that are respectful of the models and other photographers talents.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Point Blank Shot photography – what should we know?
Point Blank Shot Photography started as a way for me to showcase cosplayers at conventions. It has transformed into so much more. I have studied portrait and boudoir photography to expand my horizons as well as my client base. I have also been able to take on newborn photography as another way to hone my craft.

But I am most known for is shooting at conventions. I am blessed to have a core group of friends that I now consider family that supports me and challenge me to get better with each shot.

I am most proud of the people I have gotten to know throughout the community, and it is my pleasure to help spread the positivity and talents of those I have the honor to work with.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My biggest supporter and mentor is Alan K, on Instagram as @portraits.n.cosplay. He has helped me grow professionally and has also been a personal mentor to me. I am also happy to have Ali Williams (@onlyalicat) as one of the very first cosplayers that gave me a chance.

Since then, we have become great friends and have collaborated on several photo shoots. I must also thank my friends Rick and Ash Gould for their personal support and motivation, Sunday brunches, and trips to Universal Studios.

They have become family to me and my boys. A huge thanks goes to Francesca Taylor (@francheezy24_7) for referring me to the magazine! The list of supporters is too numerous for me to continue, but I wouldn’t be able to do it without the love, encouragement, excitement, and support of my children.

Pricing:

• Location shoots- $.25/mile travel fee. $75/hour (2-hour minimum) 10 edited photos plus all unedited digital photos
• Newborn photography- $150/hour (2-hour minimum) 10 edited photos plus all unedited digital photos
• Boudoir photography- Client pays location/studio fees. $75/hour (2-hour minimum) 10 edited photos plus all unedited digital photos

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pointblankshot_photography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Photographer/Point-Blank-Shot-Photography-234042267175692/

Image Credit:
Batgirl @onlyalicat, Sugar skull @facesbyrachie MUA @shannacistulli and @jacklyn_rae_ for @makeupdesignory, Cammie @feisty_vee, BTS Captain Marvel @tinycatkate, Green Lantern @nicsworkshop, Jubilee @francheezy24_7, Wonder Woman @mayan.goddess, Michael Myers @_the_real_michael_myers

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.