Brandon Michael Young
Brandon Michael Young
Photographer / Creative Director
Los Angeles, CA
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I am a visual artist who creates photo and film content for artists and brands. ”
Film is my main medium of use and with that I try to evoke and tell stories through my photographs.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I grew up in a small desert town called Apple Valley two hours from LA, then moved to South Pasadena for my studies. I obtained my BA in Telecommunications and Film/Photography at Cal State LA and it was really there where I delved into my creativity visually.
I was given the resources I needed to hone in on my craft and immediately fell in love with cinema and the analog film photography process. In school I always took the leadership role where I would direct film projects and give the best constructive criticism to the best of my ability. Alongside working on school projects with my colleagues, I reached out to local LA photographers and began assisting them in their studio with various film and photo projects.
Now, having gained the knowledge and skills I needed, I am a freelance film photographer who focuses on portraiture and creative direction for artists.
How do you stand out in your field?
I would say the answer to that question lies in the hands of the viewer. Whenever I’m working on a project, a goal of mine is to always create the best atmosphere and experience for my clients. I think when doing so, you can truly capture that energy and feeling in a photograph.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Right now, I’m working on building my creative network and portfolio. I just finished photographing and designing an artist’s EP cover, which I’m really excited for. I’m also photographing a few artists and in the talks about directing my first music video.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
Since starting my photography journey in a darkroom, I would say my style and taste are definitely inspired by the analog film process. Through my photographs, I emote a very minimal, intimate, and timeless look. Whether that’s with rich black and white tones or by using a very muted-natural color palette.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
Since my shoots are usually on location, I would love to focus more on photographing in a studio where the lighting is controlled by me and not Mother Nature. For me, I personally want to really harness those skills to elevate my work.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
For me, it’s time management. With so many moving pieces it’s sometimes frustrating trying to stay on top of everything efficiently and effectively.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Help out with organization and outreach! I have too many distractions!
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
I would have told my younger self to be patient, more experimental, and have more confidence with my medium. Since we live in an ‘instantaneous’ society, I always try to remind myself that good things take time and if you want something you have to go out and get it.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Let’s just say if I ever get the chance to sit down with Bruce Weber or Annie Leibovitz, the conversation would be based around having longevity and how they were able blend art, fashion, and photojournalism so seamlessly.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Creative direction for artists and brand collaborations.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
For both parties to see eye to eye when it comes to budget, artistic vision, and execution. I find it vital for both to trust each other and be open to new ideas.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
It varies from project to project. I usually charge a day rate that’s based on complexity of shoot, hours, and amount of photos delivered.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
You email me at, branndonyoung@gmail.com, visit my website brandonmichaelyoung.com, or send me a message on instagram. I always appreciate a simple and clear idea of what you’re looking for, then we can start outlining and go from there.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
I dive into music, art, and cinema.
This member profile was originally published in February 2020.