Phone: (818) 378-7775
Quen is a Los Angeles based model and a new friend. She specializes in sports and fitness modeling, but after spending a couple of hours with her it became apparent to me that she’s quite comfortable in all types of scenarios. I really enjoyed our fitness and lifestyle themed shots and I’m looking forward to working with Quen again in the near future.
Location: Venice Beach, CA
I didn’t know much about land speed racing, but the visuals from the races had been embedded in my brains for years when last year, out of nowhere, I found myself chasing my curiosity all the way to Wendover, Utah.
The best way to describe land speed racing is making the efforts to break the previous ‘absolute’ land speed record. (The absolute speed record is calculated from the speed over a course of fixed length, averaged over two runs.) The first event took place in 1912 and since then it has become a part of Americana and a very unique sub-culture of motorsports. Many of the hot rod, belly tanker, land cruiser and motorcycle builders pay homage to the rich history and tradition of the sport.
I remember I became fascinated with the sport as soon as I first laid my eyes on one of those rocket-looking things, shooting across the white salt field. Both the location, and the machines, have captured my imagination.
Luckily, every summer the fastest vehicles and drivers in the world gather at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah in an attempt to break the world’s top speed record. I’ve learned that the solid layer of flattened salt provides the perfect surface for high-speed racing. When I arrived I was amazed (and immediately hooked) by the diverse range of vehicles and motorcycles, all built to go insanely fast through an endless stretch of natural terrain, unlike any that exist.
However, after spending few days out there I slowly realized that it’s the people who make this unique sport unforgettable. Months of hard work, imagination, ingenuity and craftsmanship gives birth to these custom vehicles and brings them to this magical place. Here in the desert, skills and courage, along with the ambition to reach an absolute land speed record, ushers these cars and motorcycles across the salty crust.
These exceptional builders and drivers showcase not just their vehicles, but their sense of camaraderie and passion. They are all here to win, yet they’re always ready to talk shop, exchange ideas and to help each other out.
After months of preparatory work, last minute jitters can be felt at the start line. They all want their hard work and efforts to yield results. As a photographer, I know this feeling very well. I know exactly what it’s like to chase passions with lot of sacrifices and no guarantees, so I found a profound connection to these people.
While each visionary machine zooms through the Salt Flats, they are pushed hard to their maximum performance (and often beyond). This is a reality that can move the needle of experience from euphoric to catastrophic. Yet this is a risk that the drivers accept as part of the journey.
Pushing these machines to their absolute limits can have catastrophic consequences. I have so much respect for the brave drivers that step onto the salt every year and a deep sympathy for those we have a lost along the way. Worst case scenarios can happen any time in a split second…
Between these runs, as I boiled under the desert sun and burnt from the white salt reflecting onto my body, I lowered my camera and let things soak in. I realized that it’s impossible to show all the hard work, passion, commitment, technological feat and imagination that goes into these races by attending just one event, which is why I decided to track down more races in the future. For an exciting sport that’s surrounded by natural beauty and laced with danger, I’m quite sure it’s going to be an addictive endeavor.
As you may have guessed, “Salt Fever” is a term they use for the people whose lives are forever changed after attending one of these races and keep returning year after year. I must confess, I have it too!
A new collaboration with one of my favorite models and good friend, Karoline Gora, who is a Los Angeles based personal trainer and fitness model. You can find the previous set here. We had the perfect afternoon on the coast and I was able to infuse some Cali vibes into these promo pieces for active wear manufacturer: LA Society.
Location: Malibu, CA
It was July 21st, a day after New Moon (when the sky is still pitch black due to the absence of the moon) and as a last minute decision I was heading out to the desert with hopes to photograph the the Milky Way and the glorious night sky. It was going to be a quick overnight trip, about 2 1/2 hrs of drive each way, with me returning by midday on the following day.
Living on the outskirts of Los Angeles and with about 300+ days of sunshine a year, I pretty much knew what to expect and how to pack. Despite its toasty 110 °F heat, the desert usually cools off significantly to around 80 °F after sunset. It’s not a bad deal.
I picked the area called Trona Pinnacles, which I have photographed a few times before, for its unique tufa formations that add quite a bit of mystery and character to my night shots. When I arrived I decided to walk around to look for areas and compositions that I haven’t really explored before.
After a few initial test shots and adjustments I settled in to create a time lapse video. This is something I‘ve been working on for a while now, fine tuning my skills in order to create technically sound and beautiful time lapses. Once I set it up I let the camera do the work.
I felt more relaxed once I saw the Milky Way rising and I had my composition in place. I also had some free time to look further while my camera kept clicking away. I walked about 30 feet in the opposite direction when I looked up to the starry sky and saw one star faintly flickering, almost like a signal.
I’m not sure why, but suddenly all the reports and discussions I’ve heard about comet NEOWISE had flooded my head… How it was more visible further up north, like in Seattle, but we in Southern California would miss it. Apparently it was going to be hard for us to see the comet, because it’s mostly visible in the evening hours and it’s also close to the horizon, meaning that it would dip below it before complete darkness. It’s also getting less pronounced as it moves away from earth, blah blah blah. The usual expert advise…
Still, I had a feeling. I couldn’t tell what I was seeing so I stopped my camera, ruining my process, turned it around and took a shot. After the longest 20 seconds of my life, this is what showed up on my camera’s display:
It was Comet NEOWISE — or more scientifically C/2020 F3! I wasn’t expecting it at all but it was a nice confirmation yet again, if not a life lesson, to not let expert opinions cloud your decisions, or interfere with your goals.
I wanted to see that sucker much closer. I switched to a longer lens and let my time lapse record the comet, since it was going to be another 4400–6000 years before I’d get another chance! Haha! This sight ended with clouds moving in and covering the dipping comet, but by then I had my clip and the memories.
On my way out I had a few more opportunities to capture the Milky Way, now sitting completely vertically above the desert landscape. No matter how many times I see it, I’m always filled with awe. Especially when I think about the fact that what’s visible to us was transmitted lightyears ago and some of the stars have already extinguished. In reality, we’re watching the past today.
© 2020 Attila Adam
Us creators have more free time now than ever before, which is why I set out to help local businesses. I posted a note on the Nextdoor app and offered my photography as a mindful collaboration, while following local safety guidelines and social distancing. When I didn’t get the response that I was hoping for I decided to look for an 'Open for Business' themed project on my own.
Coincidentally, this was around the same time I also promised my younger daughter a treat (a kind of a reward). When we stopped by our donut shop I was surprised to see that the bakery wasn’t nearly as busy as it used to be. They’ve taken all the proper measures to make people feel safe and comfortable, but most costumers still haven’t returned.
Song of S & S Donut and Bake Shop
They had to find a new way to reach their customers and they definitely needed some imagery to convey their message and to bring the customers back in. After a short conversation I was given the opportunity to create images for their emailers and various social media channels.
You can’t eat in but you can always safely pickup, either ordering ahead or placing one in the store.
Although I’m not a wedding photographer I jumped at the chance when the groom, who is one of my best friends, asked me to photograph his wedding. We began planning weeks before the coronavirus outbreak and had the whole ceremony and reception mapped out to the tiniest details.
At the beginning of March, California didn’t have a stay-at-home order in place yet but there was already a lot of fear in the country. Eventually, about half of the guests, including family members and the rabbi, had canceled their flights. Shortly after that the restaurant backed out and we were left with a gorgeous estate that was already payed for.
The couple worked long and hard to secure this location, but most importantly they didn’t want to postpone the ceremony indefinitely. After some consideration, we decided to go ahead with the shoot. Conducted from more than 6 feet away at all times, with no people around and no schedule to follow, the three of us were able to spend time together to create lasting memories. This is one shoot I won’t forget any time soon!
Despite the unique circumstance, it’s been an absolute honor and a privilege to have been able to record and celebrate this milestone of their journey.
© 2020 Attila Adam
I was assigned to photograph specific NVA locations for their image library and website. Their experience is rooted in fun, convenience and trust, therefore I set out to capture pets having lots of fun, playing, splashing and interacting with the staff while showcasing trust, love, care and bonding. I also tried to add a few candid moments whenever it was possible.
A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to work with old friends on a fun and exciting holiday project.
Directed by the talented duo of Billy Federighi and Brett Snider AKA Gentlemen.
Produced by Greg Jones of Ruckus.
Agency: Merkley + Partners
You can watch the full story here:
I’m honored to have two of my images shown at the 22nd Annual Something Personal exhibition that premiered on December 9th at the SOMArts Bay Gallery.
Something Personal is a juried show, featuring the work of professional APA members from all across the US. Over 800 photographers and production professionals showed up at the San Francisco gallery event to enjoy the Judges’ top 100 framed photographs on display.
I entered two images from my recent trip to Alaska. They were taken on a challenging 25-mile round hike to the Mint Hut, under harsh and changing weather conditions that yielded amazing photo opportunities.
You can view the entire online gallery of the top 200 selections here — 2019 Something Personal Online Exhibition: Judges' Selections
Last week I stopped by Sony's Digital Media Production Center and I was, once again, blown away. Sony keeps getting it right. Not only they have managed to become a major player in the camera world, their customer service/care is also top notch. They help, educate, listen and respond to feedback (often in a form of an update) really well.
I’ve been wanting to get my hands on some new gear, so I checked out the Sony a7riv and Sony a9ii cameras and shot a few portraits. See below.
I had fun working with the provided models while I kept asking questions from the techs.
Later, I sat through a one-on-one Photo Mechanic presentation, which had been on my mind for a while.
Lastly, I checked out the motion picture set and saw the Sony Venice in action. I was offered to try it out but I had a different agenda. As someone who works on film and commercial sets, I had a few question about best practices in challenging situation and I wanted some ideas to ensure a high success rate of shooting. For example, my last shoot was on a very similar commercial set that was mostly indoors, low lit with tight spaces and a large crew. I was pushing my camera's limits, high ISO, and also had all sound and visual indicators off as well. Focusing was really problematic for me but after a bit of discussion I was offered a few options to try out on my next shoot. I cannot wait!
Whether you want to try out new cameras or have some questions, I highly recommend visiting this facility. The whole place has a friendly vibe and people are very patient and helpful. Have you payed them a visit yet? Let me know about your experience.
Karoline Gora is a Los Angeles based personal trainer and fitness model. She’s not only beautiful but also very personable and down-to-earth. I had an immediate connection with her and I believe it shows through my images taken at her recent cardio workout. Location: Vasquez Rocks, CA
Last month, my friend Jess from Washington was visiting California and we spent a day smack in the middle of nowhere. I suggested to meet at a gas station in Trona, because I wanted her to experience a desolate place and a semi-ghost town where nothing grows or happens. Luckily, Jess is adventurous and always down for anything so this proved to be the perfect plan for an adventure.
After catching up for a bit (the last time I saw her in Seattle), we drove out the Pinnacles. On our way there, we stopped by the decommissioned train tracks and had a field day photographing leading lines, symmetrical compositions and listening to the wild sounds of the wind blowing through the metal tubes. We had so much fun that it almost took us an hour to drive the 5 mile road in. By the time we got to the pinnacles, all the clouds have disappeared and the wind had intensified. We drove around the large tufa formations and popped out of the car a few times to take pictures, mostly to find other SUVs and trailers in our shots.
We drove further away and decided to look for a higher vantage point and if every story has its own weird happening, we had ours here. As we setup for our sunset shoot, Jess decided to use the car key to tighten the tripod plate on her camera and she bent the end of the key. Staying positive, we continued photographing the sunset but later her worst fear became true when the key wouldn’t fully insert into the ignition. After some brainstorming and trial-and-error work, we fixed the key by forcing it on the same plate but turning in the other direction until it looked somewhat straight. Suddenly the car started up and we were heading out of the park. What an awesome end to a great day!
I haven’t seen Jess for almost two years at that point and it was amazing to reconnect with her and to have a rad time with a friend who shares my love of photography. Until next time, sister!!!
Sofia is a Texas based fitness trainer who’s been training pretty much all over the world. I met up with her on a rainy Sunday morning at the original Gold’s Gym, aka The Mecca, where I shadowed her with my camera for a couple of hours. As a true pro, her workout was seamless with perfect form and she was kind and patient with me and an absolute joy to photograph. I cannot wait to work with her again. I also would like to extend my gratitude to Mike Ryan for letting us use this iconic gym! Location: Venice, CA
Ruben is a young athlete who is currently training for the upcoming season of American Ninja Warrior. I caught up with him at the beach, where he spends a good amount of his mornings working out. Location: Manhattan Beach, CA
By far one of the best photo events I have attended in the past few months was the Sony Be Alpha, Los Angeles meet. Hosted at the ROW in Downtown Los Angeles, it was large in scale, colorful in settings and with a wide variety of styles and genres. I loved seeing all the effort and attention to detail that went into the entire event and all the creativity that came out of it. I’ve never seen so many smiling faces and excited creatives in one place and the work that was later shared online was absolutely phenomenal.
As you may have guessed it, they had Sony cameras and lenses to loan, there were multiple sets to photograph (with various talent) and a selection of food and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the evening. The Be Alpha community event also included a couple of informative presentations, including the Alpha Female initiative.
Although it only lasted a few hours, I photographed so much that it felt like I was on a week-long photo shoot. I was excited to finally try out the Sony a7iii with a couple of fast lenses, first with a 50mm f1.4 and later a 24-70mm f2.8, and I love them. After importing my images to Lightroom, I was so impressed with their quality (mostly the dynamic range, sharp details in all areas and the color information in the shadows and blacks) that a couple of weeks later I purchased the Sony a7iii body.
This event truly inspired me to focus more on portraitures and to push my work creatively. Of course, much of the credit goes to the production team for setting up these elaborate sets and also to the acrobats, skaters, models and dancers and lastly to Sony for making it happen. Some of my best images came out of their Be Alpha events and these ideas had ignited my creativity. Here some of my favorite shots and would love to hear what you think of them!
I’m big fan of continuous education and even just the general advancement of one’s skills. I believe that learning new things and acquiring new skills should never stop, even when we’re done with school and we have our diplomas to wave in the air. In film school, my main focus was cinematography and I spent a semester on learning how to light a scene, create different setups and light patterns with a variety of lights, flags, screens, gels, etc. Early on, I learned how important it is to create a mood, or feel, that is appropriate for a scene and why lighting is an integral part of the cinematic language.
As I’m slowly transitioning to studio photography I felt it was time for a refresher, which is why I signed up for an advanced lighting workshop at FD Photo Studio in Downtown Los Angeles. I felt my biggest shortcoming was not having enough experience with strobes. I’m accustomed to using continuous light, when you can actually see what you’re creating, and strobes are a still more of trial-and-error for me… but I’m slowly adjusting.
At any rate, regardless of what you use you should know how to light for classical portraiture. There are several things to control and think about to create a flattering portrait, including: lighting ratio, lighting pattern, facial view, and angle of view. Below are my attempts of a singe light source shot, a few classical Hollywood 3-light setup (key, fill and rim) and some split pattern variations. I have much to learn and I can’t wait to compare these to the ones I’ll be creating months from now.
The Pacific winter storms in Southern California had created some interesting and beautiful conditions up in our beloved San Gabriel Mountains. Only about 45 minutes outside of Los Angeles, these pictures were taken along California State Route 2 North, aka Angeles Crest Highway.
Fun shoot with Wimbledin, a young band that is set to release brand new material and an EP soon. I loved the band’s energy and collaborating with them was a breeze. Going into this project I was hoping for gloomy weather conditions (as it was forecast) but at least we had some soft light for the earlier part of our session. Not a bad compromise…
Classy styling with a touch of 50s by Melissa Chiaro-Eggerling. Location: Irvine, CA
Sony really pulls out all the stops when it puts on an event and this was no different. They had everything: Sony cameras and lenses to loan, models available to us to stage our own photo shoot and a selection of gourmet food and beverages throughout the evening.
The Be Alpha community event also included a beautiful and very informative presentation by the talented Cristina Mittermeier, a panel discussion about the Alpha Female initiative along with some surprise gifts and more photo opportunities. I felt like I was on a three-day photo adventure… in just a matter of a few hours! Haha! Once I checked out my gear, a Sony a7riii first with a 50mm f1.4 and later a 24-70mm f2.8, I was in heaven. Here are some of my favorite shots from the event.
Studio work with the beautiful Ashi. Location: FD Photo Studio, Los Angeles
