Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Weinberg.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m originally from the suburbs of Boston and went to Boston University for photojournalism. I moved to New York shortly after and cut my teeth working at a darkroom and as a studio manager, all while building my portfolio and working part-time jobs to get by. I became a full-time professional photographer in 2010, and I moved to Los Angeles in 2012.
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?
I was coming up before social media was really a thing. The only way photographers could show their work online was through Flickr, Tumblr, or personal blogs. Other than that, it was a lot of luck and knowing the right people. Going to exhibitions, in-person meetings, etc. It was a slow road with many peaks and valleys. This industry is far more easy to break into if you’re well-off, white, and male. I believe there is a long way to go regarding diversity, equity, and inclusivity.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I would call myself a documentary photographer overall. This can include portraits, advertising, reportage, and even fashion. My work is not about creating a new world but about identifying the beauty and magic that is already present. I like showcasting the existing world in a new way that highlights something visceral about my personal reality. I am known for my intimate portraits of celebrities and for my lifestyle advertising work. I try not to differentiate them stylistically. I have recently opened a studio / gallery / event space in Atwater Village called Secret Beach. Once it’s safe to do so, I will be hosting community-based art events such as performances and art shows. For now, it’s my workspace. I love having a place outside of my home where I can be productive, all within the bustling neighborhood with no shortage of great places to eat and walk around.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I never had mentors; and I consider photography to be a very intimate and personal process. I’m also stubborn and like to try to figure things out on my own. My main sounding boards have been my peers in photography. We can be blunt with each other and commiserate about this wild industry to which we’ve chosen to dedicate our lives. I have been given latitude with assignments from many brilliant photo editors, namely Jolie Ruben from the New York Times. Without her trust and consistent assignments, I would not have the massive celebrity portfolio I have today. I consider every editorial shoot to be a learning opportunity and a fun challenge, and I have definitely grown as an image-maker over the last several years of working for the publication.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: http://www.elizabethweinberg.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/elizabethrweinberg
Image Credits:
All photos by Elizabeth Weinberg
