We are so excited to welcome Chuck Arlund to the Blog today! Take a moment to learn more about Chuckie and visit his website Chuck Arlund Photography!
Chuckie is featured as our “Celebrity Mentor” in the Pretty Forum for the entire month of July, so come on over and ask him anything you like. Thank you so much Chuck for taking the time to share your work with us today!
Where did your inspiration for photography begin?
It started with fashion mags like Bizarre and Vogue back when I was around 8. I did not seriously really think about it as Art until I was introduced to Herb Ritts in 1988, that’s when I really fell in love with fashion photography
How would you describe your photography style?
All over the place, lol. Actually, I try to keep it simple but still try to tell a story within an image. Adjectives I have heard describe my work: dark, serious, fun, vibrant, muted, edgy, artsy, see – all over the place!!
Did you study photography in school or are you self taught?
I have been studying and continue to study photography seriously since 1986. My minor is in photography and I still do continuing education at college as well as teach. I taught college photography for 3 years while I was in Nashville.
Do you shoot Canon or Nikon, and what is your favorite lens?
I personally shoot, Canon, Pentax, Contax, Mamiya. I have been know to shoot a Nikon on occasion when one is available. My favorite lens is a 50mm on 35 format and a 35 and 45 on the medium format.
What is your advice to natural light photographers on the benefits of learning to use different lighting techniques?
The benefits of using different lighting techniques are you can create light rather that wait for it. I love natural light but it can be limiting if that is all you know how to do. Another important benefit is that I think flash particularly helps you understand exposure.
What is your favorite subject to photograph and why?
My favorite subject is fashionable people. Notice I did not say pretty people. I have always been aware of fashion even though I’m personally not that fashionable. I like things that are odd, or seem out of place. I do not discriminate between men or women I think both sexes are equally beautiful and fascinating.
What is a good lesson you have learned this year in photography or in your business?
Hmmmm have fun, don’t take yourself so serious. I always have subjects and part of the team coming up and saying how much fun they had. If everyone is having fun we do better work.
What do you love most about being a photographer?
The insane amount of chicks. Kidding. It’s not what I love but it’s just that I finally found an artistic outlet that I’m starting to understand. I’m an observer and photography allows me to pass on my observations.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Happy!!
About Chuckie: My goal is to photograph for Vogue and Rolling Stone. My passion is music. Photography is my art of choice.
I live by the thought that I can die tomorrow and everyday is a blessing. I wake up and say thank you. I put a smile on and embrace the day. That feeling might last 10 minutes or 10 days but by being positive, even when surrounded by negativity, life is pretty damn good.
Visit Chuck at his WEBSITE, BLOG, and FACEBOOK page today!
And don’t forget, you can “Ask Chuckie” anything you like in the Pretty Forum for the entire month of June!
