Meet Jake Bogartz | Photographer

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

Hi Jake, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
Honestly, the end goal for me has always been the same. I want to turn my passion for photography into a full-time career. I really want to establish myself as a respected and well-known photographer and be able to have a life full of doing things that I love and enjoy. But I guess that’s kind of everyone’s goal, right? I just have this drive to end my career with a strong body of work that spans a lot of different genres of photography. I would love to be considered a huge contributor to that artistic world and just leave a long-lasting impact on the industry. But, even if I never quite get there, if I can create things that really resonate with people and inspire others, I’ll consider this whole thing well worth it.
I also really want to have collaborated with as many of the top artists, brands, and publications as possible. It would be so cool to show my kids a cover that I shot for GQ or Vogue some day and I hope I can eventually reach that. I really love doing collaborative work and exchanging ideas with other photographers and creatives and I’ve had a lot of success in that so far. I guess I just really want to see how far I can go…
I’m also passionate about inspiring others and talking about the mental health aspect of this whole thing. I’d like to eventually create something where I can share experiences, and insights that can help lead people on the path that I’ve started. Hopefully, when it’s all said and done, I’ll have inspired some other photographers to express themselves and be creative. Hopefully that can help other people as much as it’s helped me in my life.
Really, I just hope that through my body of work, I’ll have created some kind of legacy. If I can leave behind photographs that inspire people, be considered an influential photographer, and have lived a life that I love, I’d be more than happy with that.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Well, I feel like what sets me apart from many other photographers is my unique approach to capturing images that evoke the atmosphere and storytelling elements found in the movies that I love. I Studied film and media in college, so a lot of my inspiration comes from the visuals, lighting techniques, and composition used in films to create a distinct aesthetic in my photographs. My goal is always to have my photographs like screenshots of a Hollywood movie.

One aspect I am particularly proud of and excited about is my ability to merge the art of photography with the narrative power of storytelling. I love to create visual narratives that capture the authenticity and reality of the subject while breathing life into the concept if that makes sense. Whether it’s through capturing a single moment filled with tension or crafting a series of images that weave together to form a larger story, I am always trying to think about the “why” and make something cool out of that.

Getting to this point has been challenging but also very rewarding. It certainly hasn’t been easy, and everyone knows how hard the photography industry is to break into. It’s highly competitive and constantly evolving. But I really think that the challenges I’ve experienced along the way have been valuable lessons that have shaped me as an artist.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance and continuous self-improvement. I constantly face rejections and setbacks, but I really try and view them as opportunities to get better and I try to invest most of my time in becoming a better photographer and not listen to the other stuff. It’s hard to not get upset when something you think is amazing completely flops, but the only thing you can do is keep pushing forward and not let the opinions of others shape the kind of art you want to create.
Another huge lesson for me was learning just how important networking and building relationships can help you grow. This one aspect has opened so many doors and given me so many opportunities, that I can’t stress enough how important that’s been. Just having the opportunity is half the battle and I’m so thankful I’ve been given so many.

In terms of my brand and story, I want the world to know that my photography is rooted in my deep appreciation for the art of cinema. I aim to transport viewers into another world, much like movies do. I aim to create things that allow people an escape or outlet, even for just the split second they see my work. I really hope to inspire others to embrace their imagination and to create things that bring them enjoyment.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh wow, ok. So, in a place like LA this is super tough! My first piece of advice is to never buy one of those scams “star maps” or the Hollywood bus tours. But if I had a week to show someone around, here’s what I would do: I would start by showing them the classics. Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Downtown LA, etc. Hit all the good spots like Rodeo Drive, Sunset Strip, and stuff like that. Just a bit of sightseeing. Got to get some food at Pink’s hot dogs or Phillipe’s for a French dip sandwich, those two are a must. Then, got to get out to the bar for a couple drinks at Harvard & Stone. In my opinion, they make the best whiskey sour ever. If you don’t get it with raw egg white, we can’t be friends haha.
Then we hit the beach! Spend some time playing games and hanging out on the Santa Monica Pier and head down to Venice beach and hit the boardwalk. That place is not what it used to be but still a must. You’ll see some things there that you won’t be able to unsee. But hey, that’s LA. Maybe drive over the hill and hit the Getty Museum? That’s always cool too. After that, take a drive up the coast and check out Malibu and relax on the beach. Could even do some surfing too!
In Ventura, I would absolutely take someone down to main street a couple times. The vibe there is very different from day to night, so you must experience both for sure. Hit the pier and get some tacos at Beach House and a beer at Made West. Then it’s back out for the nightlife. Hop around to a few bars and see how the city is at night. It’s always a good time down there for sure! Then grab a slice of pizza at Jimmy’s Slice to cap the night off right.
Basically, a lot of great food, drinks, and taking in the sights! Oh, and the obligatory breakfast burrito from Los Comales, can’t forget that!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! There are so many people that come to mind. First and foremost, I would like to dedicate a heartfelt shoutout to my family and friends. Their unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in my passion for photography have been instrumental in my growth and success. They have always been there for me and given me all the support in the world. I would never be where I am today without them.
I am also grateful to the other photographers I’ve met along the way. Learning, sharing experiences, and having that guidance has played a huge role in shaping my style and vision. There are a few select people that have hugely helped me refine my skills and continue to grow.
I also really need to thank all the models and clients that I’ve had the pleasure of working with thus far! I will be forever grateful to everyone who has given me a chance to do what I love. I have been inspired by so many people that it’s hard to think of them all. The fact that people trust me enough to capture these moments means the world to me.
Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t say a huge thank you to this publication and all the others that have given me a chance to share my voice with the world. I always try to be as open and honest as I can, and I am super grateful to those who’ve allowed me to be my authentic self.

Website: https://www.jakebphotos.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakebogartzphoto/

Other: Tik Tok : https://www.tiktok.com/@jakebogartzphoto Email: jakebphoto92@gmail.com

Image Credits
BMW Javier Oliva Jalleen Lexa Jade Ava Chicheportiche Hana Hope Mercedes