Today we’d like to introduce you to Thomas LeClair.
Hi Thomas, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The allure of capturing the power, beauty, and essence of automobiles through the photographic lens has been my passion for many years. As a child, I was drawn to cars and soon found myself on the path of constructing custom Porsches, working in vintage racing, and securing an eleven-year tenure at Bentley Motors, Inc. including a 3-year assignment at the factory in England.
While I initially relished this work, I gradually found myself yearning for a different path. As a lifelong lover of motorsports, particularly the breathtaking road racing vehicles that raced like the one I saw at Road America as a kid, I felt a deep desire to explore the art of automobile photography. It was not an easy decision to leave the security and success I had built in my previous work behind, but I was determined to pursue my dreams. The road ahead was long and fraught with challenges, yet I was willing to invest countless hours and significant resources into honing my craft.
Through tireless practice and unyielding dedication, my skills grew and my confidence soared. Soon, I was capturing images for major brands, sanctioning bodies, and collectors alike. But the journey was far from over. It was a fortuitous twist of fate that led me to an in-house photography role at an aftermarket suspension manufacturer.
Here, I was granted access to some of the world’s most exquisite muscle cars, allowing me to capture their magnificence in ways I never thought possible. It was during my second shoot at this position that my work was featured on the cover of a high-end automotive magazine, and my success only continued to grow from there. Yet, as gratifying as these accomplishments were, they were merely milestones along the never-ending road of growth and improvement.
As I move forward, I remain committed to the art of automobile photography, always striving to refine my skills and push the boundaries of what is possible. It is a journey that is both challenging and exhilarating, a lifelong pursuit of the craft that has captured my heart. Through the lens of my camera, I can share my passion with the world, to capture the awe-inspiring power and beauty of these remarkable machines.
It is an honor to be able to bring my vision to life, to share my love of automobiles and photography with others, and to keep pushing myself to explore new possibilities and reach new heights.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey has had its fair share of challenges. One of the major struggles I encountered was the significant financial commitment required to acquire all the necessary photography equipment.
Luckily, I was still working for a large corporation when I started investing in gear. However, the industry underwent a significant shift from SLR-style digital cameras to mirrorless cameras, rendering much of my equipment obsolete. This sudden change meant facing the daunting task of transitioning to mirrorless and essentially starting from scratch with my equipment.
Additionally, venturing into a different line of work at a young age can be challenging. However, when you’re in your 50s, it requires a great deal of bravery, networking, and the unwavering support of friends and family. Embracing a new career path later in life can be intimidating, but it’s a testament to the resilience and determination that propels me forward.
Despite these obstacles, I firmly believe that challenges are inherent in any worthwhile endeavor. They have not deterred me but rather have served as valuable learning experiences and opportunities for growth. As I continue along this path, I anticipate encountering further hurdles, but I am confident that my passion for photography and the support system around me will propel me forward.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a photographer with a specialization in automotive and racing photography. My work primarily revolves around capturing the essence of cars in motion. One of my key strengths lies in my ability to create captivating slow shutter panning shots that convey a sense of dynamic movement within a still image. This technique allows me to freeze the action while preserving the energy and excitement of the racing or automotive moment.
In addition to my skills in capturing motion, I pay meticulous attention to the composition and setting of my static shots. I strive to find locations that complement the character of the cars I photograph. Whether it’s through matching colors, and shapes, or capturing the essence of the car’s age or unique features, I aim to ensure a harmonious blend between the car and its surroundings. This attention to detail adds depth and context to my photographs, creating a more immersive experience for viewers.
Furthermore, I take pride in developing a distinct editing style that has become synonymous with my work. This signature look is a result of my artistic choices during the editing process and helps to make my images instantly recognizable as my own. While I consistently apply this style to my work, I am always open to adapting it when necessary, based on contractual requirements or specific client preferences.
Ultimately, what sets me apart from others is the combination of my specialized focus on automotive and racing photography, my ability to convey motion in a still image, my careful attention to composition and settings, and the unique editing style that defines my work. It is this blend of technical expertise, artistic vision, and a distinctive aesthetic that I believe distinguishes me in the world of photography.
We all have different ways of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
To me, success is not a destination but rather an ongoing journey. It is a continuous process of growth, learning, and improvement. While I may not have a fixed definition of success, I believe it lies in constantly looking ahead, planning my next move, and creating opportunities. Success is not something that can be completely achieved or checked off a list, but rather a pursuit that fuels my drive to continuously strive for more.
For me, success goes beyond mere accomplishments or reaching specific goals. It involves building meaningful connections, networking, and nurturing relationships within the industry and community. Creating a strong professional network not only opens doors to new opportunities but also allows for collaborations and shared knowledge, which ultimately contribute to personal and professional growth.
Integrity is another essential element of success in my eyes. Upholding high ethical standards, being true to oneself, and maintaining a sense of honesty and authenticity are crucial. Success is not solely about personal gain but also about how I impact others and the world around me. It is about leaving a positive imprint through my work, relationships, and actions.
Furthermore, success is intrinsically tied to a desire for self-improvement. It is about continuously pushing boundaries, expanding skills, and honing my craft. Each achievement becomes a stepping stone toward the next goal, to surpass past accomplishments and continuously elevate my work.
In summary, success to me is a dynamic process that involves a combination of networking, building relationships, maintaining integrity, and having a persistent desire to improve oneself every day. It is a continuous journey that keeps me motivated, driven, and always striving for greater heights.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tleclair.com/motoring
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tlp_motoring_photography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TomLeClairsMotoringPhotography
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomleclairphotography/
Image Credits
Thomas A. LeClair
