Meet Michael Sanville | Fashion and Portrait photographer
We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Sanville and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Michael, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I knew I didn’t want to work a 9-5 for someone else. My father ran his own business and he told me when I was a young teen that working for yourself can be more difficult at times because of the hours necessary to become successful, but it is also so much more rewarding! I took that advice and never looked back. And he was right.. the hours are longer and sometimes it feels like its a 24/7 gig but if its something you love to do, then it doesnt even seem like work!
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Once I became a professional working photographer I have always tried to follow my instincts and shoot what appeals to me artistically. Obviously when hired for a job/campaign it’s imperative to follow what the client seeks and wants and what we have discussed however, they have also hired me for MY vision as well. The combination seems to always work out perfectly. Communication is imperative. Having conversations and meetings prior to the shoot is imperative. As is choosing the right model(s) that understand the vision and can bring that energy playfulness or intensity to the shoot. Surrounding yourself with a solid team is just as important. The photographer always gets the attention and credit however none of it can be accomplished without the right hair person, make-up person, assistants, stylists, and as stated above, model.
They are the foundation of the work and without them no vision can be accomplished correctly and professionally. They simply do not receive nearly enough credit! It takes a team. I’ve learned over the years that you aren’t a perfect fit for everyone.. and if you stick to your vision and artistic integrity eventually and inevitably you will connect with the clients that share those same ideals.
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?
I would more than likely start with The Getty Museum. Taking the rail up the mountain is a joy in and of itself. Once you arrive you’re greeted with the most inviting architecture mostly made of stone and they always have inspiring exhibitions. The surrounding grounds are magnificent as well and spending the day there is easy to do. Afterwards I would head to the beach to catch the sunset. Dinner back in town at CrossRoads, one of the finer vegan restaurants in town in my opinion.
The next day off to Laurel Canyon where musical history abounds! Simply driving around the hills looking at the different homes and architecture and points of interest is something that I have found out of owners truly enjoy- whether its Jim Morrisons old home or where Joni Mitchell lived or even where Crosby Still Nash an Young wrote so many of their hits.
Pace for dinner and of course a stop at The Canyon Country Store to say hi to Tommy and grab a piece of their carrot cake with with a big slice of white chocolate placed atop the slice!
And what trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Malibu to paddle out in arguably one of the most famous surf spots in California! After a good morning workout it’s off to Johns Garden for a delicious lunch.. then a drive up the coast with the top down to take in the sun and salt air!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
As a preface, I would be remiss if I didnt acknowledge the countless people that have helped… from agents to bookers to clients to models to makeup and hair people to sylists- all of whom have helped to raise the bar with me and for me… but not the least of which is my wife Yvette for her love, encouragement, and support.
I worked as an assistant for a fashion photographer out of London named Johnny Rozsa for a time. I met him at a Christmas party when I was floundering and uncertain in which direction to turn. He took me under his wing and like a sponge I soaked up his knowledge and work ethic and slowly but surely began to shoot my own stuff. One of the greatest words of advise from him came at a time when I was putting my first book together… He looked through my book and said to me this all looks good however, its boring. I dont see YOU in here. Technically its good, the lighting is good, the models are good but YOU are missing in these images! It was brutal to hear… but it changed the game for me. I realized that I had to shoot what I loved, what turned me on, what came out through my sensitivities, passions, ideas and instincts…. not what I thought other people were going to like!
Website: michael sanville.com
Instagram: @michaelsanville
Linkedin: Michael Sanville
Image Credits
All credits to Michael Sanville
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
