Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandon Lenzmeier.
Hi Brandon, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
About two years ago, I picked up a camera and immediately fell in love. I started taking pictures of everything I could. I read books, took classes, and watched YouTube videos on all things camera related from basic camera functionality, to lighting, composition, and photo editing. What really got me going was when I was able to photograph my niece as a freshman gymnast at the University of Minnesota.
After the gymnastics season, I moved on to capturing high school baseball. I then wanted to combine my newfound love for the camera with my longtime love for music. I brought my camera to a local music festival and came across the amazingly talented Mae Simpson. Mae and her band have brought me on board to be their official photographer and through them, I have been able to work with other local bands such as Pert Near Sandstone, Annie and the Bang Bang, The Foxgloves, Maygen and the Birdwatcher, and The 4 on the Floor.
I have had the privilege to shoot at incredible venues like First Avenue, The Dakota Jazz Club, Blue Ox Festival, Majestic Theater, and many more. I am also currently a team photographer for Minneapolis Lens, a local music publication. In addition to live music and sports photography, I have also branched out to portrait and still photography such as family portraits, artist promotional material, senior portraits, and headshots. I recently started Photography by Brandon Michael LLC and work to maintain my growth and knowledge in multiple aspects of photography from live music to portraits and stills.
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?
Smooth road? Yes, and no. Working with a camera has at times come very easy to me. I picked up a lot of things very quickly and many doors and opportunities have fallen on my lap sooner than I ever imagined. The universe has undoubtedly been pushing me in this direction. However, you are your own worst critic, and the artist in me can be very subjective about my work. Putting yourself out there isn’t always an easy task.
Learning new editing tricks and making sure you are trying new artistic approaches is of course fun but also challenging if not in the right mindset. Photography is a very expensive career and I am always craving the next new lens or piece of equipment. Learning and staying on top of marketing yourself to reach new clients is an everyday learning experience.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Most of my work to date has been through live music and concert/show photography. I love catching the emotion, the moments, and the feeling of the show. I am most proud of the talented bands I have been able to work with and some of the amazing venues and festivals I have been able to shoot at.
I am working hard at growing the portrait side of the business. I really want to capture moments for my clients and create images that they can frame, make graduation announcements, share with friends and family, or add to a website. There is no greater feeling than seeing your work being shown out in the world by happy clients! So if you are reading this and would like some portrait work done, look me up!
I am proud that a lot of this has happened in what feels like a short period of time. I strive to be a well-versed photographer in multiple aspects of the field. What might set me apart is my approach to a project and my calm demeanor when working on projects. I am easy to work with and comfortable to communicate with.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
Nothing specific. Just support from friends and family. Inspiration from other photographers.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.brandonlenzmeier.com
- Instagram: @photography_by_brandon_michael
- Facebook: Photography by Brandon Michael
