Meet Brian Bonanno | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brian Bonanno and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brian, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking is not easy, if anything, I still am working on taking risks. When I am out doing photography or taking on gigs, I acknowledge that mistakes could happen, you just have to not be afraid of making them. I find the same goes with any form of art, I am also a musician and I got back into taking piano lessons over the past year. Although I tend to mess up sometimes, it would not lead me to my goal if I do not practice. Any new skill or opportunity that you dive into is a risk that you are taking.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I got to where I am today by knowing when to take risks. It’s important not to be afraid to take risks and grow your skills by trying new things. Fun story, the first time I took engagement shots, I was hiding in a tree. There were many factors I had to pay attention to, such as not getting caught, getting all the timing right, and not falling out of the tree! Also, while living in Philly, I was able to go to several photography meet ups. Meeting new people and making connections can be scary, but it is nice to have people who support what you do and share common interests with you! You never know what opportunities could come up just through networking!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There is so much around here to see, I think I would do a mix of different kinds of places! My favorite thing to do here is explore the beaches and hike in nature. My absolute favorite place for nature here is Palos Verdes. I love to watch the sunset with the cliffs and the lighthouse in the distance! I would definitely want to take them to Laguna Beach, the water there is so beautiful and it’s a relaxing place. One day, I would take them to Disneyland and try to get to as many rides as possible. (Fun fact: I hated amusement parks until I moved out here!). Last but not least, pretty much anywhere in Malibu!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My friends and family from Philly who have always been there since and supported me since I started photography three years ago, Mary, Melissa, my mom and dad, my partner Michael, my siblings, the awesome photography community in Philly. Also to my old friends Lindsay and Dimitris who have welcomed us with open arms to the west coast and showed us around after our move. Last but not least, our loving cat Cici.

Website: www.brianjbonanno.com
Instagram: @brianjbonanno

Image Credits
Headshot: My partner Michael. (@electronsrock)