The Unexpected Connections of a Freelance Editorial Photographer
Freelance editorial photography is full of surprises, and my recent experience photographing for The New York Times is a perfect example. The day started like any other—I brewed my coffee, let the dog out, and scrolled through Facebook as my coffee cooled. Little did I know, a quick glance at my newsfeed would reveal an unexpected collaboration.
A Surprising Connection
While sipping my now lukewarm coffee, I saw a post from a friend and former coworker, Bret Schulte, sharing an article he wrote for The New York Times. To my surprise, the photos accompanying his article were mine! Neither of us had realized we were working on the same piece until that moment.
This humorous twist reminded me of one of the quirks of working in media—despite being in the business of communication, we don’t always communicate directly. If you’ve worked in news or editorial, you know exactly what I mean.
The Assignment: Photographing Nate Looney
The article focused on the work of Naturally Blue PAC, and my assignment was to photograph its president, Nate Looney. Nate was set up outside a soccer tournament at Springdale High School, working from a table in the shade. However, most of his interactions happened in the harsh noon sunlight—a less-than-ideal setting for photography.
Challenging lighting is part of the job for an editorial photographer. In these situations, it’s about adapting and making the most of the environment. I focused on finding angles and compositions that highlighted Nate’s determination and the energy of the event, all while working around the intense sunlight.
Why Freelance Editorial Photography Matters
Freelance editorial photography is about more than capturing an image; it’s about telling a story. Whether it’s a local business, a political organization, or an individual with a unique vision, my job is to bring their narrative to life through my lens.
Editorial work often means tight deadlines, diverse subject matter, and working in unpredictable conditions. But that’s what makes it exciting. Each assignment is a chance to meet new people, learn their stories, and create visuals that connect with audiences.
The Joy of Meeting Ambitious People
One of the best parts of this job is meeting passionate individuals like Nate Looney. Seeing people turn their ideas into action is inspiring, and it’s a privilege to document their journeys. While I steer clear of discussing politics, I’ll always encourage others to get involved and make their voices heard. Your vote matters!
Wrapping It Up
Freelance editorial photography is a career filled with unexpected connections, creative challenges, and meaningful stories. From photographing a PAC president under the Arkansas sun to realizing I unknowingly collaborated with a friend, each assignment brings something new.
If you’re looking for a photographer to bring your story to life—whether for a magazine, news outlet, or brand—I’d love to help. Let’s work together to create compelling visuals that resonate with your audience!