Conversations with Jeffrey Sklan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeffrey Sklan.

Hi jeffrey, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
( this is actually an update from your previous interview w/ me…)

Since our last conversation, things have accelerated. I published a book, entitled “A Case of You”. It is of portraiture, inspired by songs with which I have history. Totally heartfelt, a bit romantic, and utterly beautiful! The first printing sold out and was really well received.

Three more books are in various states of layout. So, to precisely answer the question – I’m thoroughly engaged in creating new work, including a book of landscapes from my travels over the last 40 years.

There was an inaugural show of botanical images created during COVID last autumn, 2025. it is called “Alone Again, Or”. The turnout was huge and the support: beyond wonderful. Forty or so of the 365 new images were displayed. It was amazing to see them together in a gallery setting and then watch people’s reactions. When an image made with real sensitivity goes to its new home, it is a tremendous feeling of accomplishment.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The last few years have been have been very productive. That is the adjective I’d use, rather than smooth. This is probably the result of just moving forward, however incrementally, every week. There is seldom a day when the creative force is absent. If it is quiescent, or if I am not in the studio or editing / planning a session, then other things things are used for inspiration.

When there are setbacks, my view is that they are just part of the process. And to be let go of quickly.

There is so much beauty in the world and so much talent expressing it interestingly. I adore many younger artists and still revisit the masters who first lit the fire within me. My enthusiasm is as strong as it has ever been. Maybe more so, actually.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Fine art photographer and increasingly, a teacher for others on their photographic journey. The portraiture I do always starts with a glimmer of an idea, or a face that I think would fit well with my current projects. The sessions are loosely structured but closely observed. New people are invited to collaborate and old friends with whom we have previously worked stop by, sometimes unannounced, on the Sundays set aside for personal work. I adore it when people are passing through Los Angeles and reach out. Spontaneity is the essential ingredient for every session. My studio has an abundance of diffused sunlight, which creates the option of creating very natural looking images. Increasingly, they are digital, but film is still used.

I do everything by feel and instinct in my personal work.

As far as commercial work – it is inspiring to work with a talented art director or end use consumer. Bringing someone else’s vision to fruition, and perhaps adding a thing or two is great fun and very satisfying. I have shot fashion, jewelry, lifestyle, personal family portraits, corporate work…you name it. There is something to be learned from every assignment.

What’s next?
Big plans? No, just a list of rather modest ones…but it is a long list! Together, that list may yet amount to an compelling body of work. Time will tell.

I want to do a serious retrospective when I hit 75. A loose design for it floats through my thoughts in the middle of the night, lately.

As far as big changes go, the hope is to refine my eye and continue to edit out the inessential. Then, then free up some time to finish a novel that has been languishing…

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jeffreysklanphotography.com
• Instagram: @jeffreysklan
• Facebook: jeffrey sklan

Image Credits
(C) Jeffrey Sklan 2026