A seasoned lifestyle and healthcare photographer whose lens goes beyond capturing moments to telling compelling stories. Discover the secrets behind Gregory’s ability to blend real experiences with improvisation, creating images that make you feel part of the moment. Join us as we unravel the craft, passion, and personal adventures that shape this photographer’s unique perspective on commercial photography.
Website: gregorymillerpictures.com
Instagram: @gregorymillerpictures
Describe your signature style or approach to photography.
I primarily shoot people on location for healthcare and financial groups. Sometimes I’m working with real people to tell testimonial stories and sometimes I’m working with pro talent – either way, I keep things conversational while I shoot, providing some direction and leaning on the real experiences or the improvisational skills of the pro talent I’m photographing.
How do you typically prepare for a commercial shoot to ensure success?
If I’m working with real people (like the impacts of medication on a patient’s quality of life, for example), I like to have a call with them beforehand to understand their experience and how their medical condition impacts their daily life. I also want to hear about how the medication has impacted them. We craft a sort of day-in-the-life shot list together so that when I’m shooting, we all understand what the goals are.
If I’m working with pro talent, I have close conversations with the CD/AD to understand what it is we’re trying to communicate. Often, during those discussions, I’ll come up with some ideas the creative team hadn’t considered.
What advice do you have for someone aspiring to become a successful commercial photographer?
Shoot what you love as often as you can and show it to as many people as possible! Somehow, there’s going to be a connection made that will bring you the kind of work you like shooting.
What motivates you pick up your camera each day?
I don’t necessarily pick up my camera every day, but I continue to fall in love with photography over and over again. Currently, I’m loving shooting 4X5 landscapes. I put together a 4X5 field camera kit in October with 4 lenses. I’ve taken it to the Scottish highlands, the rural farmlands of Iowa, the deserts of New Mexico and next week I’m going to the swamps of southern Georgia. I just sent my film off for processing and can’t wait for it to be returned.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
The personal work I’ve been shooting this year (aside from the 4X5 landscapes) has focused on adventure and solo sports. I’m currently up for a photo/video shoot for an adventure footwear brand. In five years, I’d like to be doing much more of that kind of work and possibly have had a couple gallery shows featuring my 4X5 landscape work.
Do you pay for listings in places like Workbook, or Found? If so, do you have a favorite? Have any of them garnered work?
I’ve been with Wonderful Machine for more than a decade. I do get a few jobs each year from their directory service. I’ve also had good luck with Workbook. I think it’s important to have a presence on platforms such as these because creatives really do search for photographers using their directory services.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day?
I love dinner dates with my wife! Atlanta has a great food scene, and we love getting out and seeing what’s new – so long as we can break out of our regular rotation.
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