f/22 - Photographer Interviews by VSCO

In this episode of f/22, Greg Lutze sits down with Bay Area photographer and filmmaker David Godinez in San Francisco to talk about the realities of turning photography into a career. David shares how he got started, why photography is just his starting point, and how his work has evolved into video and post-production. The conversation focuses on the often-overlooked side of the craft: business....

In this episode of f/22, Zach Hodges sits down with Oakland photographers Pablo Circa and Essi Westerman at VSCO headquarters to talk about creating their very first gallery exhibition: Street Stories: Oakland in Focus . What started as an idea during a lonely season turned into a community-powered show featuring 42 photographers and dozens of handwritten “written portraits” collected from people...

In this episode of f/22, Zach Hodges sits down with film portrait photographer Lauren Marcelle at Bild Expo in New York City. Lauren shares her journey from shooting Polaroid as a kid to working in 4x5 and 8x10 large format film. She talks about why slowing down matters, what it takes to make a single meaningful frame, and why portraiture gives her something street and landscape photography never...

In this episode of f/22, VSCO co-founder Greg Lutze http://vsco.co/greg/gallery sits down with Bay Area photographer, filmmaker, and Google computational research creative Brandon Ruffin http://vsco.co/ruffdraft/gallery to explore how identity, narrative, and technology intersect in modern image-making. Known for his powerful storytelling and community work through Cameras & Coffee Club, Brand...

With nearly two decades of experience behind the camera, Karna Roa has photographed weddings around the world — from the vineyards of California to ceremonies in Tokyo and Morocco. In this episode of f/22, she shares how shooting weddings taught her every aspect of photography, how education through PPA (Professional Photographers of America) shaped her growth, and what she learned from the viral...

Greg Lutze , co-founder of VSCO and passionate street photographer, has spent his career blending design, photography, and creativity. In this episode of f/22, Greg opens up about his path from early graphic design work to photography, the origins of VSCO Film, and his ongoing love for capturing life as it really is. 📌 In this interview you’ll learn: How Greg went from design to photography (and...

From photographing World War II veterans to building a career in longevity and celebrity photography, Tom Sanders has carved out a unique niche in the industry. In this episode of f/22, Tom shares the story of how a college assignment led to two published books, long-term client relationships, and a thriving photography business. 📌 In this interview you’ll learn:   How a chance encounter with a W...

In Part 2 of our interview, Martine Severin pulls back the curtain on the business and strategy of commercial photography. From test shoots and building a team to networking, portfolio reviews, and landing clients, she shares candid insights from 13 years in the industry. 📌 In Part 2, you’ll learn:   Why commercial photography is a “tightly choreographed dance” How to show production value and pr...

From growing up in Haiti to becoming one of Vogue’s top emerging photographers, Martine Severin shares her unlikely journey into photography. In this episode of f/22, Martine talks about falling in love with photography as a child, the role of weddings as a training ground, and the long road to building a professional portfolio. 📌 In Part 1, you’ll learn:   How Martine discovered photography as a...

In this episode of f/22, host Zach Hodges follows along cityscape, landscape, portrait, and concert photographer Kris Kuganathan for a golden hour and night photoshoot through the urban scenes of Downtown Los Angeles. From capturing striking portraits to timing light trails, Kris shares his tips on lighting, composition, and storytelling to inspire your own creativity. 0:28 — Intro 0:51 — About Kr...

From self-taught beginnings to a decision to pursue photography full time, join Zach Hodges in this episode of f/22 as he sits down with portrait photographer and visual artist John Baloy to discuss his creative journey. Known for his artistic portraits, John reveals how he leans into his distinct editing style and eye for photography to bring some of his most memorable work to life. Whether you’r...

In this episode of f/22, Zach from the VSCO team sits down with Atlanta photographer Branden May to discuss his street and architecture photography work. From his unique light and shadow techniques to creative influences, Branden shares valuable photography insights around finding your style, gaining exposure, overcoming self-doubt, and more. 0:00 — Intro 1:08 — About Branden May 1:35 — Start of B...

In this episode of f/22, Zach from the VSCO team is joined by Bay Area photographer, videographer, and marketer Omeez Jones . Discover an insightful conversation where Omeez shares his journey from starting as a self-taught photographer to becoming a sought-after name working with notable clients such as Kevin Durant and Apple. Learn what it takes to break into photography, get your work in galler...

In Part 2 of this f/22 episode, Zach from the VSCO team continues discussing multi-disciplinary creator Liza Gershman’s success as a seasoned photographer who has worked with major brands such as Williams Sonoma and Restoration Hardware. With 20 years of experience across diverse genres, Liza offers invaluable advice on maintaining quality work, building strong networking relationships, getting hi...

In Part 1 of this f/22 episode, Zach from the VSCO team sits down with multi-disciplinary creator Liza Gershman to explore the VSCO Gallery at SCOPE Art Show during Miami Art Week. Liza offers a behind-the-scenes look at the SCOPE Art Show experience, the process of curating a gallery, and the power of collaboration and networking in the creative industry. Whether you’re starting your journey or a...

In this episode of f/22 , hosted by Zach from the VSCO team, multifaceted creative Squint shares how he’s built a successful photography career through trust, gratitude, and meaningful relationships. From photographing celebrities to showcasing his work on VSCO, Squint offers insight into his creative journey and the mindset that’s helped him grow. Whether you’re emerging or established, his persp...

Dive into f/22 — a series where all things photography are brought into focus through conversations with photographers. In a discussion hosted by Zach from the VSCO team, American-Pakistani photographer Simrah Farrukh shares a snapshot into how she secures professional clients, gains reach for personal photo projects on VSCO, and more. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer starting your journey...