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Professional Photographer London
Steve Franck
London Photographer
I’ve been taking photographs ever since I received my first camera as a gift aged 14, an Olympus OM 10 with a standard 50mm lens. I quickly discovered the possibilities of exploring the world in ways I had never really managed to achieve through drawing and painting alone. Because I’d always been interested in visual art forms, the camera offered me the opportunity to develop my own aesthetic in a way that seemed to resonate quite strongly. I fell in love with photography and came to see it as the point where art and engineering merge, through design and technology to offer a means of creative expression. My interest in people later led me to study for a degree in Social Anthropology and this interest has always informed my work. I’m fascinated in what makes people the way they are and wherever possible, I focus my lens on subjects that offer an insight in to people and their stories, with the aim of informing viewers of a world beyond their own.
In 2007 I turned my passion into my career and I studied photography at the London College of Communication where I filled many of the gaps in my knowledge and learned to improve my skills. I’ve never stopped learning and I enjoy sharing that learning with others through my photography workshops. Over the years, my love of food and cooking merged with my love of photography and I began photographing food as well as people.
I bring my own style to corporate, commercial and editorial portraits, headshots, stories and features. I work with both creative agencies and directly with end-user clients, including major UK news providers, the not-for-profit sector, corporate and commercial clients. Some of the clients I’ve worked with over the years can be found here. I live in London with my wife and children although I go wherever the work takes me. I am a member of the BPPA and EPUK.
Testimonials
Frequently Asked Questions
Portrait Photography
What types of portrait photography do you specialise in?
I specialise in a wide range of portrait photography including headshots, social media profile pictures, corporate portraits, and more.
Where are portrait photography sessions typically held?
Most of my portrait photo sessions take place on location. I bring the studio to you! All I need is a suitable space in your office, home or other place of work. Of course, sessions can also take place in any outdoor space.
How can I prepare for a portrait session?
It's important that you feel relaxed so make sure you allow enough time for the session. Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident, maybe even bring a couple of options. Sometimes a prop can be appropriate, so think about what you might want to bring in addition to your outfit. I don’t do hair and make up so that’s down to you. I will always take time to put you at ease throughout the entire process so you enjoy the experience and ensure the images capture your true personality.
Can you shoot my best side?
Many people have a preferred ‘side’ so I will always discuss with you ways to make sure you are presented in a way that you’re happy with. Because everybody is different, every portrait needs to be approached differently so I don’t simply shoot every portrait in exactly the same style.
Will I get to see and choose the images?
Of course! Wherever possible I will shoot tethered, meaning my camera is connected to my laptop and you will be able to see the images immediately on screen. Throughout the session, you’ll be able to review images and together we can choose camera angles, lighting, and poses that you’re happy with.
How long does a typical portrait session last?
The duration of a session can vary depending on the type of portraits you need. When shooting a large number of corporate or business portraits in a day, the schedule is usually set by the client, but I would want to spend at least 15 - 20 minutes with each subject. For individual portraits or headshots, sessions last between 1-2 hours including set-up time.
Is re-touching included?
Basic post processing corrections are included. While I don’t believe in using software to disguise what people see as imperfections, minor adjustments to remove temporary blemishes can easily be made.
Food Photography
What’s involved in a food photography shoot?
If you’ve never had a food photography shoot done before, you might be surprised quite how involved it is! I’ll need as much space as possible, in order to position lights and other equipment. However, because I bring the studio to your location, I’m able to adjust the set-up to suit the available space, making the process as smooth as possible and with minimum disruption.
Do you offer services for both commercial clients and individuals?
Yes. I offer food photography services for a wide range of clients, including restaurants, food bloggers, chefs, food brands, and individuals looking to capture beautiful images of their creations.
Do you also do food styling?
I’m a photographer not a stylist, but I have picked up a few tips from working with Food Stylists over the years! My approach is all about creating visually appealing compositions that highlight the ingredients and textures of each dish with appropriate lighting. I work with you on location to style the food using your own crockery, cutlery and props in order to create images that present your food at its best and in an authentic way.
How long does a typical food photography session last?
The duration of a food photography session varies depending on the number of dishes being photographed, the complexity of each dish, and any additional styling requirements or the nature and use of props involved.
Can I use the photos across all media?
Yes, clients receive full usage rights to the photos for their intended purposes, including advertising, marketing, social media, websites, and print materials. I provide high-resolution images optimized for both digital and print applications.
What makes you different from other food photography?
Like any food photographer, I have a passion for food and photography - I’m a keen home cook myself. What sets me apart is my flexibility in working on location, bringing studio quality production to your location, whether that’s a high end restaurant, local cafe, or even your own home. Working on location makes the process more efficient as all the necessary ingredients and genuine props are already on location, not to mention the food is prepared and styled by the chefs who create the dishes, making the entire process more cost-effective and hassle free for you.
Story Telling
What do you mean by story-telling photography?
There is a degree of story telling in every photograph; it’s the subtle details that create an implicit narrative in a portrait or a well presented plate of food. But a series of images can tell a story in a much more refined way and so explore a particular theme or process in greater depth.
What types of stories do you specialise in photographing?
I’ve always been fascinated by people, so when photographing a series of images for a client, I strive to reveal the unique story within each moment, whether that’s a process of producing a specific product like a work of art, or for a wider commentary around a specific social issue or lifestyle. Stories are implicit in human communication and can be as relevant in a corporate context as they are in raising awareness or campaigning.
How do you approach storytelling through photography?
Wherever possible, I will spend time getting to know my subjects on a personal level, to gain some insight into their lives and experiences, what makes them tick. I seek out authentic moments and interactions, allowing the story to unfold naturally while capturing the essence of the narrative through my lens.
Do you photograph special events or occasions?
Yes, I often photograph special events, including conferences, corporate events, or weddings.
How many pictures make up a photo story?
The number of images needed to create a successful narrative depends on the nature of the subject matter and intended usage. There’s no fixed amount as each story is unique.
“I’ve had the pleasure of taking 2 photography courses with Steve recently - a night photography course along the Southbank, and an intermediate classroom based course. Both were brilliant and Steve made the material so fun and engaging. I learned a huge amount in my time with Steve and came away with a renewed energy and inspiration for photography thanks to his passion for the subject. Thank you Steve!”
Amy Wakefield, Photography Tuition Client