Today we’d like to introduce you to Thom Vollenweider.
Thom, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I knew at a young age, before high school that I was going to be a professional photographer. The camera has allowed me to travel the world as a photojournalist. I’ve covered news events as staff photographer for United Press International in Europe to working as a NFL team photographer for the San Diego Chargers, covering 3 Super Bowls. For over 45 years, my work has been published on a regular basis with the Union-Tribune. My first U-T front page cover was in 1978 of the Balboa Park fire.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I’ve always been passionate my work. With the new wave of digital photographers, experience has always kept me one step ahead of the newest trends. My creative approach starts by making my art unique-no two photographs are ever the same and I strive for concepts that are original.
The stereotype of a starving artist scares away many potentially talented artists from pursuing art – any advice or thoughts about how to deal with the financial concerns an aspiring artist might be concerned about?
There will always be financial as well as personal struggles, it’s all a part of the lessons in life. It’s learning how to adapt to these crisis that will define your life’s goals. Photography is expensive.
Know what your time is worth. Most photographers are just happy to get a job, but they don’t put value on their time.
I’ve noticed that photographers today give their work away for free just by posting it on the internet.
In a profession that is being saturated with photographers that settle for “it’s good enough”, I wish I could give you sound advice on this subject.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
As a contributing photographer, my work is published on a regular basis in the Union-Tribune. Yesterday, I photographed a feature story on the Phantom of the Opera and two football games. I’m currently working on an ESPN documentary about Junior Seau, who I worked with as his personal photographer during his playing years with the Chargers.
You can also view some of my work at www.studiovportraits.com
Contact Info:
- Website: www.studiovportraits.com
- Phone: 619.589.1970
- Email: thomvollenweider@gmail.com
- Instagram: @thomvollenweider
- Facebook: Thom Vollenweider
Image Credit:
© Thom Vollenweider Photography
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