friday feature: james baigrie

South African James Baigrie has been shooting stunning editorial, commercial and catalog work for more than 15 years with clients like Pottery Barn, Martha Stewart Living, Crate & Barrel, Food & Wine and more.

James splits his work time between New York City and San Francisco -where he now resides with his wife and two sons. (The surf is much better over here.)

(I was able to assist James a few times in NYC and he was wonderful to work with.)

Here is our interview, for you:

01. What is your favorite camera to shoot with?
Hasselblad 6x4.5 with P30 back



02. What is your favorite subject to photograph? Why?
Food. Food can be a beautiful and interesting subject to shoot. Whether I am shooting food in a street market, at a dinner party or in the studio, it is always challenging and ultimately very rewarding.



03. What equipment do you shoot with? Do you use artificial lighting?
I shoot with a medium format digital system (Hasselblad and P30) and a Canon 5D Mark II. Yes, I use artificial lighting when I need to. I always try to make my artificial light look as natural as possible.



04. What makes a photo shoot go well?
Good collaboration and clear communication between art director, stylists and photographer. An art director who knows what she/he likes is very helpful too.



05. Children always look like they are having a good time in your photographs. What's your secret?
I am a goofball on shoots! Also, kids need to be photographed quickly or they get tired.



06. How did the switch from film to digital affect you?
I love digital and jumped at the opportunity to switch. Digital files are far easier to archive and digital workflow has had a huge impact on my ability to "capture the moment". My clients clearly enjoy the ability to see the images so boldly and clearly during the shoot. Digital has taken a lot of the risk factor out of my job.



07. What sources (photographers/artists/media/etc) inspire you?
The photographers who I assisted have been my biggest source of inspiration: Mike Donnelly and Simon Watson. I also love the work of Irving Penn and Annie Liebowitz among many others.



08. Have you ever thought of changing careers?
Yes. Sometimes I get burned out by commercial photography. I probably need to make more time to shoot personal work.



09. Describe your perfect day.
A mixture of food, kids and interiors in a beautiful setting. Talented stylists and a competent art director. Stunning natural light. Done by 5PM.



10. What advice would you give beginning photographers?
Assist photographers whose work inspires you and do your time in New York City.



Thank you, James! Show your love for this feature by leaving a comment here!