Life & Work with Ed Rudolph

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ed Rudolph.

Hi Ed, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
After becoming interested in photography in high school, I went in to study at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. After graduating, I got my start in the industry by working for some of my professors, who were also some of the best commercial photographers in the city.

On my days off, I kept working on my portfolio, trying to collaborate with stylists that I had met while assisting the veteran photographers. Slowly I began to form relationships with my own clients and gradually became a full-time photographer on my own. Today, I specialize in food and product photography and have a studio near Culver City.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being freelance in a very competitive creative business has not always been easy. I have had my share of disappointments, as well as victories when I land that big assignment.

The biggest lesson that I have had to learn is to have patience and be persistent in the face of adversity.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a commercial photographer specializing in food and product photography. I split my time between working in my studio and being on location, usually at my client’s offices. I am most proud of my longevity in a competitive field and the high-profile companies I have been able to shoot for.

What sets me apart is my experience under a variety of conditions, which allows me to prepare for any unforeseen issue that may arise during a shoot. Professional photography is about making sure that the client leaves the shoot happy, so problem-solving is very important.

How do you think about luck?
There have certainly been some occasions where my work caught the eye of a client at the right time. The best thing a freelancer can do is put themselves in a good position to get lucky, through networking to get the job, and preparation before an assignment, to make sure it goes well.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.edrudolphphotography.com
• Instagram: @ed_rudolph