Molly Steele
Molly Steele
Film Photographer
Los Angeles, CA
www.molly-steele.com
instagram.com/moristeele
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I’m a lifestyle photographer that specializes in reportage and editorial photography. Also, I shoot all analog film!”
What STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I took the intuitive route and have learned by trial and error. My work has gained popularity through my voice as most of my images are accompanied with writing.
FOR OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR FIELD, WHAT DO THEY USUALLY LACK?
My work is very honest. It stimulates a discourse of intimacy, nature, and alternative lifestyles separate from the commercial status-quo. I don't fabricate or curate any events, nor do I blatantly advertise commodities, so everything you see has a vibe to it that's timeless, accessible, and alluring.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I'm working on strengthening my writing and editorial voice to further contribute to conversations in both art and journalism.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I'd like to work on more art-driven projects that stimulate conversations, whether that be through photographs, film, or writing. I'd like to focus less on commercialism in it's most saturated forms.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
I'm frustrated by getting approached to work for trade or in exchange for more exposure. I hope people can see the value in what I do, as I'm only just getting started.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HOUR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Make me food and respond to emails. Also maybe more enticing tasks like cataloguing my archives.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Get off the internet and into the streets. That is where life is.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
I'd talk to an expert on happiness and social justice.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
I'm looking to work on creative projects that go beyond the concept of "brand-building" and instead are an expression of passion and integrity.
WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL CLIENT?
My favourite experiences so far have been with clients who understand the value in freedom. Whether that means creative freedom, or on a commercial shoot leaving room for models and moments to converge effortlessly and without scrutiny. For example, my recent job shooting a look-book for Michelle by Comune was bare bones but unfolded beautifully because the talent and crew all shared the same desire to have an adventure.
WHAT IS YOUR RATE?
For task-driven work, my rate starts at $50/hr. For photography, I prefer to handle this on a project-by-project basis depending on the criteria involved, but my day rate ranges wildly from $1500-$5000.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
I love an interaction that's straight to the point. What are you looking for, what is the budget, when is the time frame, and what do you expect to get from me? I'm a nice person and happy to work. The more efficient the emails, the less time we can spend back-and-forth and more we can spend it on the good stuff.
This member profile was originally published in September 2016.