Self portrait of Chris Zdarko — Photograph by Zdarko Photography

Hey friends! Chris here.

In this edition, I showcase a bit about myself in an “Ask Me Anything” style blog. I’ve reached out, got some great responses & questions, so you can all learn more about me below!

Have a question not asked? Hit me up in the comments section at the bottom of the page!

Questions:

You know, I've always had a passion for art and creativity. I may be dating myself a bit here, but the first "camera" I remember owning was a Game Boy Camera. Even had the printer! Over the years, I have learned more about art without ever realizing it. Reading superhero comic books, immersing myself into video games and paying attention to the details. I even went to school for Computer Animation.
Then one day I thought to myself, you know what? I am going to get a nice camera and pick it up as a hobby. I offered to do a few shoots for friends and family and realized I had something beyond a creative touch.
I had found a hidden passion.
Tough call, there are so many aspects to this, the creativity, the art, the memories created... But probably the best part is working with unique clients. Learning about them and their individual stories is pretty rewarding in itself.
Wildlife. They never complain about their photos. JK JK.
Honestly, it's less of a "niche" and more of the clients I serve. When my client is passionate about their craft, their family, or themselves, it really conveys a true sense of life into the images.
Ah man, I don't think I could really describe the answer to the fullest extent here, but briefly:
Branding
Branding is a lot of fun, getting to create photos and video content for other business owners. Branding clients are their own breed, really. They understand the value of networking, communication, and business. And each of their brands are so unique to them, it becomes a fun and creative challenge to put together a design and plan that will showcase them in such a way that will talk directly to their clients.
Lifestyle
So lifestyle can be branding in a sense, but this pertains more to families, beauty, bff shoots, themed shoots, etc. These are always a lot of fun, too. Showcasing the love and bond between a family - especially when someone in the family is always behind their own lens and never get to see themselves interacting with their family. I love working with goofy families with funny personalities. There is always a moment within the hour of laughter, chaos, and savage-ness that just breaks down to a true blissful moment of emotion. These moments speak to my soul.
As for BFFs, they tend to have the same moments as the families but in their own unique dynamic way.
Beauty is always fun being able to help people see they are more than just an image, and that they have amazing qualities that stem beyond skin-level.
I don't know, just really at the core of it, just simply empowering people to be the best version of themselves in the very moment. And that's all I try to do.
Great question! - but a tough one!
There is something I really enjoyed about every project I have worked on, and something I have learned as a takeaway from each one.
Book a session with me and give me a reason to change this answer! 😜
I really love my 85mm sigma dg dn 1.4 lens, it's just not always the best option depending on the space in the project.
My current primary body is a Mirrorless Sony Alpha 7iv.
Easy - being colorblind. I plan on diving deeper into this topic in another blog post, so stay tuned!
Start with passion and learning the craft. Learn what the camera settings do and definitely study the exposure triangle.
If you are looking to stem beyond being a hobby and turn it into a business, reach out and say Hi! I would love to help you get your start and help guide you. Owning a business is tough, but it is rewarding when you get to work with amazing people.
There have been a number of "not great matches" for projects I have been approached with. And that's okay! I have referred these individuals to other photographers that would better serve them.
The niches I have turned down and have not yet done to date is Newborns & Weddings. (Don't get me wrong, I love weddings & babies)
It's not to say that I won't ever do weddings or elopements, it's just not something I actively pursue.
I doubt I will ever do a newborn session, in spite of how cute they are. If you are looking for a newborn or wedding photographer though, reach out! I know some wonderful recommendations. 💞
Simple. My next one!