Today we’d like to introduce you to Erik Banks.
Hi Erik, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
So I pretty much stumbled into photography. After many years of going through the motions and trying to figure my life out, I decided to finish college and pursue the field I always wanted-graphic design. During my degree program, one of the requirements was basic photography and I had to purchase a camera. Cameras, as I soon found out, are not cheap in the slightest! So it was at that point I told myself, “I guess I’m a photographer now!” Fast forward a year out of college and I’ve made the decision to take my photography more than a hobby. Graphic design is still my thing but I leaned heavily into photo work ever since COVID changed all of our lives.
Professionally I’m the rather new kid on the block. I’ve pestered countless family and friends to let me practice on them and this year I finally felt ready to make this a career. I chose the name 1Lite in memoriam to the cheap DIY setup I used for my assignments in school. Even though my gear has upgraded substantially, I still try to nail the look of a shoot with only one light if I can manage it.
Interestingly enough, I originally only wanted to shoot products and refrained from taking portraits but I learned that I really enjoy interacting with new faces and having fun on set. Classic portraiture is in my toolbox but I also enjoy the more creative, funky ideas. I figure why not have fun and get crazy with it. Let’s brainstorm and make literal magic!
It’s been a blast getting out there. I’ve had some encouraging successes and quite a few humbling setbacks but it’s all a part of the ride. The main goal is to work with many different kinds of people, both creative and not so much. I want to help bring visions to life in photo and, as cheesy as it sounds, help people capture the fun, awesome memories they’ll look back on and smile.
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?
Oh, it has not been smooth at all! I will say most of my struggles stemmed from not having enough courage to fail. In this digital age, it’s so easy to pull up your peers’ page and crush your self-esteem by comparing your work to theirs. For a long time, I put off showcasing my work or trying to sell myself because I thought I wasn’t ready. I hate cliches as much as the next person but everyone truly does start somewhere. My work may not be where I want it yet but that’s okay. I truly am having a blast in the meantime.
A more recent struggle, though is the business aspect of everything. Stepping outside of the art and seeing the brand from a different perspective is a tough adjustment but I’m quickly learning practices for marketing, sales, customer experience, etc.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about 1 Lite Studio?
1 Lite Studio is a new small photography studio. Our photography focuses on portraiture ranging from what you would normally expect like birthday, headshot, soft glamour, lifestyle but also completely up for more creative sessions. If you can think, let’s try to make it real! 1 Lite is still very small so emphasis on the client is the number goal. I really do enjoy helping clients get the best of themselves captured on (digital) film. You want a friendly, slightly goofy, fun upstart, we’re your photographer!
Our favorite achievement so far would be being having one of our first beauty shoots requested to be used as the cover for a native author set to be released later this month (June)! Absolutely bonkers to have your work recognized and trusted to represent their work as well. As of right now, 1 Lite Studio is taking portrait sessions for June and July. Again we would really enjoy helping bring out your best.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Photography is an expensive hobby for sure! I would say be wary of top photogs that try to sell you everything and do your own research on what you need for your photography. A $1300 lens is just a bad as a $200 one if you have no idea what you’re doing. Invest in education over everything, engage with your subjects, and be forever learning.
If you can find a mentor, do it. Ask questions and learn everything you can, it’ll only make you a better artist. Lastly, there is enough out here for all of us to eat! By that, I mean your peers aren’t your enemy. Competition is great for driving creativity and productivity but don’t ever feel like you can’t carve a space out for yourself. Be encouraged and always rejoice in the small victories. Try your best to network with your peers and win together. That being said, I’m always down to link up with other creatives and bounce ideas, hit me up.
Pricing:
- Portrait Sessions start at $120 for 1 hr, 25 images
Contact Info:
- Email: Mrtzgdp@gmail.com
- Website: 1litestudio.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/mrtz_gdp
