Today we’d like to introduce you to Zach Lewis.
Hi Zach, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve loved photography since I can remember. I started taking pictures with an old phone a while ago but never really got into it. About a year and a half ago I bought my first camera with money I had saved from a job. I spent hours watching tutorials, experimenting with lighting, and figuring out how to get the most out of my gear — even when it wasn’t top-of-the-line. I started doing my Cross Country and Track’s team photos for free just for fun. I also would do dance pictures for my friends. As time went on, I started meeting new people, networking, and even getting a few paid jobs. I have since worked for Corner Canyon, Herriman, American Fork, and multiple other high schools. My biggest job to date was State track this year, where I was hired by athletes from 5 different teams. I’ve been able to chase my passion of photography which has opened other doors like seeing some incredible cars which I’ve had the opportunity to shoot. I’m super grateful for all of the people that have helped me along my way.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There is always challenges, even with where I am now. At the beginning of my career, it was pretty discouraging because it was super tough to get paying gigs. Even now, there’s a lot of uncertainty and challenge getting consistent work. You just have to keep going. Another huge challenge is buying the gear. My budget to begin was just $500 which only got me basic gear. It’s also tough working with clients because you often will have disagreements or complaints.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My best real professional work is in the sports area. I got my first job shooting youth football and basketball games through a small photography agency. Later that year, I had a friend hire me to film for a majority of the Herriman JV Basketball games. My favorite sport to shoot is still track and cross country because that’s the sport that I do, so I have a pretty good connection with the coaches and the athletes. My favorite thing to photograph of everything is definitely cars. I’ve loved cars since I was a kid. Going to meets and talking to the car owners and other photographers is such a fun experience. I’m nowhere near professional in this area yet and need more experience. I have been lucky enough to get a few shoots together with friends and others that I’ve met in my time spent networking.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
The biggest supporter is definitely my mom. I’ve invested so much time and money into this life, and she’s been supportive the whole way. She even bought me my first lens for my birthday. I’ve also had so much support from my track team and the parents and coaches through words of encouragement, donations, and even helping me get some big jobs. I’ve also had friends that I mentioned earlier connect me to coaches and others in need of my services that have helped grow my aspirations into a real career.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachlewphoto
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@zachlewmedia
