Rising Stars: Meet Joe Schmelzer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Schmelzer.

Hi Joe, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Well, I have been a photographer/artist for as long as I can remember. But I turned that passion into a career after attending the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and earned my BFA. I then moved to NYC and worked many jobs with professional photographers, some famous, some not so much, but learned a lot. I knew I wanted more than to be an assistant, so I went and earned my MFA in photography at CalArts. I completed that in 1999, and have been working as a professional photographer and director ever since, While I am known for my interior and architecture photography, my true passion is my fine artwork, and my extensive series about life with my husband (together for 13 years) – ‘Life with Nick’.

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?
Being an artist is never a smooth road. I think we are harder on ourselves than anyone else. This career is a hard-fought battle that never ends. The process of staying relevant is always a learning curve, and passion is something that always needs to be maintained. While at times, the market, the economy, and myself may have gotten in the way, I just tried to stay strong and motivated. As tough as it is, there is nothing else that I would want to do that gives me the opportunity to constantly express myself visually.

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 mostly known for my environmental commercial work with an emphasis on interiors, architecture, hospitality, and travel, as well as portraits in that same vein. I always strive to show to show how a moment feels, as opposed to merely what it looks like. At least, that is my goal. I am also known some in the fine art market, for my personal work, with my husband, “Life with Nick”. I cannot speak to anyone else, but I think what sets me apart, is my care, passion and low-key approach to the work, I love making ordinary moments seems exordinary in a very natural way.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Well, I think you need to take risks to succeed. Everyone wants to remain in their comfort zone, I don’t think one can grow staying in one place. I always strive to be better and make work better. Without any risk, one remains stagnant.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.joeschmelzer.com
• Instagram: @treasurbite & @joeschmelzer
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/treasurbitestudio
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeschmelzer/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/treasurbite

Image Credits
All photos by Joe Schmelzer some commercials – and selections from “life with nick” (@nicktberry)