Flash Masters Members Spotlight
Jeff Tisman
Where in the world are you based? Where is the most exciting location you have shot at?
I am based in the Hudson Valley, NY Most exciting location was climbing a mountain in Vermont for a sunrise elopement. It was perfect and what I love. Being in nature.
When did you set up your photography business and what genres of photography do you shoot?
I started my photography journey in 1987 as an assistant before going off on my own in 1995. Things were definitely different in terms of how photography careers went 'back in the day'. LOL!
What would you say has been your most memorable photography job and why?
Definitely working for Mark Weiss who was a rock n roll photographer. I remember working on my first day assisting with a Bon Jovi photo session that this guy gets paid to photograph rock stars!?!?! My mind was BLOWN!!! It literally launched my career and is very evident in my shooting style.
What is your all time favourite photograph you have taken and why?
A photo of the World Trade Center I took when I was younger. I remember being a kid and just going to NYC to photograph just for the love of photography. The Towers were just such a sight. Almost like a mythical creature rising to the sky. I loved photographing it and the city. For everything it stands for. For everything it means. I post it every 9/11. Never Forget.
Reveal one thing you keep in your camera bag that people may not expect to be there. Why is it there?
Food and snacks. I constantly eat throughout the day to keep my body functioning at optimum level. I carry a cooler bag with me to every wedding filled with healthy snacks including power cookies my wife makes from sweet potatoes and nut butter. Filled with flax seed, carrots, chocolate chips and nuts.
What is the biggest reason you like using off camera flash?
Very simply to create something that isn't there and challenge myself. I believe flash makes every photo better. Even if its balancing an image. It just makes everything pop.
What is the best part/biggest benefit of being a Flash Masters member?
Community and education. I am a life-long learner. I don't care how long you've been shooting. We all can learn from each other. You just need to be open.
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone starting out on their flash photography journey, what would it be?
Start slowly. Develop 'YOUR' style. Not what everyone is doing. Learn the rules then break them. Don't jump in using multiple flashes. Learn how one light can change your entire look and then add from there. And practice, practice and then when you think you have it practice some more.
Thank you so much Jeff for your incredible spotlight and being an amazing member of the Flash Masters community. Want to learn from Jeff? When joining Flash Masters you can watch a 'How I Shot It' interview with Jeff discussing exactly how he created many of these images including behind the scenes and straight out of camera images. You can also visit his Flash Masters profile which can link to his socials and website and you can find details of all his upcoming workshops!