Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Gallagher.
Hi Robert, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always had a photojournalistic approach to my work, whether it be a documentary photo essay or a portrait shoot, I always aim to capture the essence of my subject.
I started my career as a Sports Photographer in London, mainly working for The Independent and The Guardian, at a time when both those titles were at the leading edge of a strong visual integrity where creative, thought-provoking photography was king. Quite unheard of for the newspaper business.
From there I knew I wanted to also create more intimate work and moved into editorial portraiture. Which, with a relocation to Los Angeles, also gave me the opportunity to shoot more celebrity portraiture.
But my ideal work today is still any project where I get to peak behind the curtain of a subject and my job is to capture life unfolding.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Running a creative business is never a smooth road. There are many hats to wear, not least of which is the constant switching from business development to legal advisor to creative artist. And with being a creator of intellectual property, each new client means a new contract to dissect. Learning that language has certainly been an essential lesson I would never have anticipated in school.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work is still heavily focused on Editorial Photography- i.e. working for magazines and media outlets. It’s my first love and truly my why for becoming a Photographer. I love telling the stories of subjects that matter. And of the work I do on assignment, it’s the concepts that speak to me, that feed my vision, which continually go on to win industry awards. That feels like a true accomplishment, not just as a creative artist, but in running a successful creative business and gives you the strength to go on, especially during the quiet times.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
I think there’s a tendency for photographers these days to simply replicate what’s popular on social media. Admittedly it’s an easy trap to fall into. But I would advise to shoot what speaks to you. Be true to yourself. That’s what gets you noticed over time and how you develop your own style.
Secondly, there’s a great rule of thumb I follow when deciding to take on a project: Does if offer an opportunity to work with great people and networking? Does it offer creative freedom where you can feed your soul? Does it pay in line with your standard rates? If you can answer YES to TWO of the above, then I’d say take the project!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gallagherphoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gallagherphoto/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gallagherphoto/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/gallagherphoto
Image Credits
1. Hillary Schubach 2. Marius Haugan 3. Thomas Hencz 4. Thomas Hencz
