From the subtle glow of a sunrise to the detailed intricacy of a watch, there's a story waiting to be captured in every frame. When I embarked on my journey as a director and commercial photographer, little did I know that my path would intersect with the world of advertising in a way that would change my perspective forever. That intersection? The timeless influence of David Ogilvy.

I believe I was eight or nine when I started to watch BeWitched. While most loved the power Samantha could toss with every nose twitch, I thought Darrin had the best job in the world. The scene with him pitching to the client where my favorite and to this day still are. Now fast forward 20+ and that's what I have been doing all along. When I was in college and learning about David Ogilvy I couldn't help thinking they based Darrin off of him. 

A Union of Visuals and Words

As a commercial photographer, my work often hinges on the balance between the visual and the narrative. David Ogilvy, known to many as the "Father of Advertising," spoke volumes about the power of words. In his iconic phrase, "You cannot bore people into buying," he highlighted an essential truth: capturing attention is paramount.

In photography, every shot, every angle, and every hue aims to convey a narrative. Much like Ogilvy's compelling ad copies, each photograph I take strives to tell a captivating story. When a viewer stops, even if just for a fleeting moment, to engage with an image or advertisement, that's when magic happens.

Crafting Authenticity in a Commercial World

Ogilvy once remarked, "The consumer isn't a moron. She's your wife." Beyond the dated reference to a singular kind of consumer, this line emphasizes respect for the audience. In my work, I never assume the viewer needs overt glitz or glaring gimmicks. Authenticity, emotion, and truth resonate more deeply than any superficial ploy.

As a director, every scene I construct and every shot I choreograph stems from a place of authenticity. Whether it's a commercial showcasing a new car's elegance or a brand's latest fashion line, the goal remains constant: to genuinely connect.

Pushing Boundaries While Respecting Fundamentals

While the world of photography and film has seen numerous advancements in technology, the core principles remain unchanged. In a way, this mirrors Ogilvy's perspective on advertising. Though mediums evolve, the essence of effective communication doesn't.

Incorporating modern techniques and technologies, I love pushing the boundaries of what's possible, but always with an underlying respect for the craft's fundamentals. It's this union of innovation and tradition that helps produce work that's both avant-garde and timeless.

Concluding Thoughts

In a world filled with fleeting digital interactions and transient trends, the lessons from stalwarts like David Ogilvy stand tall. My journey in photography and direction is not just about creating beautiful visuals. It's about crafting memorable stories, evoking emotions, and fostering genuine connections.

With every click of the shutter and every directed scene, I carry forward a legacy of authenticity, creativity, and respect for the audience – principles I believe both photographers and advertisers can benefit from in a world craving genuine stories.