To wrap up our month on stock photography productions, we would like to feature the lifestyle images of age fotostock photographer, Stuart Pearce. Since he moved from the front of the camera (as a model) to the back (as a photographer), Stuart Pearce has been shootings families, couples, business and more in his island home of Mallorca. His images of people are relaxed, happy and warm; as though he was photographing his family… Stuart’s specialties also include yacht and travel photography. You can see more of Stuart’s work at age fotostock or at www.stuartpearce.com.
Q: Choose 3 words that describe you.
A: Imaginative, Loyal, Spontaneous
Q: Why did you choose to be a photographer?
A: As a child, my family and I were often used as models in the very early days of stock photography. When the opportunity arose to be behind the camera instead, I knew I’d found what I’d always wanted to do, made better by not having to smile for 8 or more hours a day.
Q: Was it a good decision to become a photographer?
A: It was the only choice, photography has given me freedom and taken me to the 4 corners & 7 seas of the planet. I’ve met some amazing people, some famous, some just very funny and many less fortunate, but nonetheless happy. I’ve shot countries, yachts, houses, food and people and still enjoy the great variety of my work today as much as the day I started.
Q: Are you more technical or intuitive in your photography?
A: Much more intuitive, it took me years to get the hang of the technical side and I’m sure there’s still a great deal that I could learn.
Q: What’s your favorite lens and why?
A: Canon 24-70mm f2.8, not too wide, not too long and has always been my workhorse.
Q: How do you achieve the warm and natural feeling which characterizes your lifestyle images of models?
A: I try to find models that can act as well as model; this helps add authenticity to my images. Although directing models has never been easy for me, I know what I want, so I direct the first few shots and then usually there’s a lot of adlibbing from there on, which produces the best and most natural shots. The lighting I use is an unusual amalgamation of hmi, halogen, natural light and flash, arranging them all so that it’s not too noticeable. On exterior shoots, I only use natural light, much easier!
Q: How do you get your subjects to sign model releases?
A: I have always paid my models and the precondition is for them to release their rights to my images.
Q: Why did you choose age fotostock to represent your photography?
A: I choose AGE over 20 years ago because of Alfonso, who has always been passionate about our industry, as well as supportive and fair.
Q: What is the best or worst photographic advice that you have ever received?
A: Best advice shooting interiors; “smack it with flash and leave it open for a fortnight at f8.”
Q: If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
A: I’ve been a photographer for a long time so I’m probably unemployable, but I do like observing people, so perhaps a freelance window cleaner.
