Luke Raymond is a 24-year-old photographer from Southern California. After starting photography casually at just 15, Luke has now shot Charlotte Lawrence’s national tour, campaigns for Revice Denim, Cake Magazine covers, spreads for Nude Magazine, and even more incredible accomplishments. Luke Raymond thrives shooting photos of everyday moments with his friends in Los Angeles. With plenty of fun and edgy editorial looks in his portfolio, Luke’s photos will leave you full of inspiration on the daily.
Sheesh Magazine was lucky enough to talk with Luke Raymond about the start of his photography journey, what inspires him to continue, memorable moments within his career, and more.
What photography style do you enjoy the most, or what style do you specialize in?
LUKE RAYMOND: I feel the best when I’ve got some 35mm film and my Contax on me. I love shooting film, and the authenticity of the photos I’ve taken on film with models that I immediately connect with creatively. Some of the photos I’m most proud of were backed by very little preparation or ideas, they’re the byproduct of trying to make something out of nothing.
How did you get your start in photography? Were there any opportunities that you feel really catapulted your career forward?
LUKE RAYMOND: I was given a camera for Christmas when I was 15. I brought it everywhere with me in high school and started by taking pictures of anything that caught my eye, friends especially. As time went on I started taking the portraits more seriously and began building a portfolio that evolved from friends at parties to models on comp cards. I’d say my ability to not only take photos of the people in front of me, but to connect with them personally, greatly contributed to some of my greatest opportunities as a photographer. When I’m working with someone I’m not just their photographer, I’m their friend. This has been a major part of my process in capturing photos.
Can you tell us more about your creative method or process?
LUKE RAYMOND: I’d be lying if I said I had a process. I suppose my process is having no process. I meet someone, we talk, we shoot, we see what happens. I find it uncomfortable when I overthink doing anything creative because it takes away from the fun of it, and it forces me to produce something I think people want rather than something that just came about organically.
Do you feel as though you’ve had any career defining moments that made you feel like, “Wow I’m really doing this”?
LUKE RAYMOND: Touring with Charlotte Lawrence was one of those surreal experiences. I’ll hold onto those memories for the rest of my life.
What motivates you to continue taking photos in this chaotic and crazy year we’ve been living in?
LUKE RAYMOND: I’m the most chaotic person I know, I’m comfortable in chaos. I liked the break it forced upon me because it gave me a chance to sit back and reflect on my work, and assess what my long term goals are in this industry. I had time to get inspired and the inspiration is what motivates me to create new work everyday.
Is there any one piece of equipment you recommend for photographers just starting out?
LUKE RAYMOND: I wish someone emphasized the importance of a good portrait lens when I first started shooting. I was always worried about camera bodies and editing software, then I got a portrait lens and was stoked on the impact it had on my work.
How do you make your models feel comfortable in front of the camera?
LUKE RAYMOND: This comes down to communication and making them feel like the best versions of themselves. It’s why I like to repeatedly work with my friends, it’s less awkward and your relationship with them goes beyond whatever it is you’re shooting.
Nowadays almost everyone has access to devices with which it is possible to take photographs. What do you think is the difference between a professional photographer and any other hobby photographer?
LUKE RAYMOND: What a question! I think technology has made it so much easier for people to tap into creative headspaces which is awesome. I’m not sure I can define what a professional photographer is, but I guess that would come down to success. Although, people define success in so many different ways so who knows what the true meaning is.
What do you feel makes a good photo?
LUKE RAYMOND: When you look at it, you feel something. It’s a cliché, but it’s a universal truth.
Who are some of your influences or inspirations when it comes to art and photography?
LUKE RAYMOND: Grimes, she’s a true artist because she’s not just the face of the things she creates but she’s the one creating them as well. Some of my favorite photographers with styles that are familiar to me and I identify with are Juergen Teller, Terry Richardson, Mario Sorrenti, Alasdair Mcllenan, and Sasha Samsonova.
Keep up with Luke Raymond and his photography on Instagram!
This article has been edited and condensed for clarity.
