STUDIO FOCUS: MATHEW ZUCKER
Mathew Zucker
(mathewzucker.com) offers his advice on maintaining studio efficiency
HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR OWN STUDIO?
I have had my own studio for almost 20 years, located in Manhattan for a bit of that time. In 2007 I had the opportunity to move into a larger space in Brooklyn where I would have more natural light and a larger equipment room to store props.
WHAT ARE YOUR SPECIALISMS?
I specialise in still life and product photography, but have extensive experience working with models. I have worked with many well-known companies, photographing a diverse range of items including cosmetics, fashion, clothing and accessories, automotives, household appliances amongst many other products and gadgets. Most of my work is used in advertising, social media and e-commerce.
HOW MUCH OF YOUR TIME DO YOU SPEND IN THE STUDIO?
90 per cent of my work is done indoors. The majority of that is done in my studio. About 40 per cent is done in rental studios, when the shoot requires a lot of props, the product I’m shooting is too large such as an automobile, or the shoot requires a large set and/or too many people to make shooting in my studio practical. The ten per cent that I shoot outside is usually because I find a particular environment to be the perfect backdrop for the product I am shooting.
HOW DO YOU MAKE THE BEST USE OF YOUR STUDIO SPACE?
I learned that the best way to maximise space and work most efficiently is to keep my studio clean. I always put my toys away when I am done using them and always put them back in the same place every time. Not only does this keep the majority of my studio space clear and ready to use at all times, but I can grab any prop or piece of equipment without giving a second thought as to where it is.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ANYONE LOOKING TO SET UP A NEW STUDIO?
Firstly, find a space that you feel very comfortable in. Think of it as a second home and you will be much happier and more productive there. Secondly, please read and re-read my answer to the previous question. The amount of time and energy this habit saves me is incalculable. If a client knocked on my door at three in the morning, I would be ready to work in ten minutes – and I would be spending those ten minutes making a cup of coffee.