Fresh out of the oven, we serve up a heaping platter of knowledge and inspiration courtesy of photographer, Casey Templeton. Casey first caught our eye with his YouTube video in which he documented himself prepping his new photography promo packet. Growing up, we were always taught to play it safe while most of the time we could only dream of changing things up. Well, Casey took it to a whole new level of creativeness and wanted to make sure his work didn’t drown in the sea of other photographers out there competing for the same business. Breaking down a day in the life of Casey, he created a packet sure to catch anyone’s eye. Blending his unique eye as a photographer with his artistic side, he hit the bulls eye! Without further delay, we welcome you to the world of Casey Templeton!

Visit Casey’s Website: www.CaseyTempleton.com

We love your commercial portfolio packet that you ship out. What was the inspiration behind this?
I knew I had one chance to make a first impression on the commercial photography world and I think I did just that. With only sending out around 300 boxes, the video of the promo box has been watched nearly 50,000 times on the internet. Great return on investment.

If you were given a free day, how would you spend it?
A free day is something I have not had in a long time. I just landed back in the states after a job in Paris and finally I’m making myself taking a day or two off which I will be spending with my wife and daughter.

The soundtrack to your life would include…

My favorite band is Homemade Knives out of Richmond, Virginia. My soundtrack would be their albums on repeat.

Always remember to…

Write thank you letters. In this digital age, nothing makes more of an impact as a hand written note.

I’m most likely to be inspired when…

When I allow myself to not take photos. Walking without a camera can gets my creative appetite up like walking through a bakery when you can’t eat anything. Once you sit down and actually start, the experience is much better.

How would you describe your style?

My style is very relaxed. I tell folks that I just want them to be comfortable, nothing else. I just want to bring a real life feel to situations where nobody thinks a great visual moment can happen.

How do you decide what to photograph?

I try not to force it. The worst days are when I walk around and try to force photos to happen. When I get into a tough spot of feeling like I’m not getting what I need to, I break down all my equipment and start with the basics, simple camera with a simple lens and trust my eye.

What type of camera do you use?

I use a Canon 5D Mark II

What is your favorite photography accessory, other than your camera?

I love my Canon 50 1.2 but my go to “accessory” is a rectangle reflector that has its own stand. I do so many quick portraits that I use it for 90% of my shoots.

If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?

Canon 50 1.2 on my full frame 5D Mark II. Not so much light weight but its so solid and sharp. Perfect mix of all the elements that can make a great shot.

What’s the best decision you made when you first started out as a photographer?

I have a few. I focused on the business side first. Hiring a CPA that has worked alongside me from incorporating my business to dealing with weekly tax questions. Working with a consultant like Suzanne Sease and hiring people that can bring my brand up to the same level I try to keep my photography.

I’ve learned the most from…

Asking Bill Frakes and Vincent Laforet a ton of questions. I would bug these guys about pricing jobs, starting a business, dealing with various agencies and usage terms. I can’t thank these guys enough.

What advice would you give to the photographers that may be starting out and new to the business?

Slow down and figure out where they want to run to before they start running. You can spin a lot of tires when you have a lot of energy and inspiration but don’t know where you want to end up.

Thanks again to Casey Templeton for sharing his portfolio and his generosity in sharing helpful tips for others in the business. We can’t wait to see what Casey accomplishes next.

1. Mumford & Sons – Sigh No More

2. OK, Go – Maybe This Time

3. Ray LaMontagne – Shelter

4. Tegan & Sara – Walking With The Ghost

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1. Iron & Wine – The Boy With The Coin

2. Jon Foreman – In My Arms

3. Holly Brook – Saturdays

4. MGMT – Weekend Wars