We recently connected with Bud Ingram-Lile and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Bud thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

I’m a self-taught photographer. Over the years before I went professional, I took thousands of pictures of various subjects; from that experience, I already had some ideas of what made people or things look good.

When I decided to take the leap into professional work, I spent lots of time looking at other photographer’s products. I subscribed to every Youtube photo channel I could find about concert work. I took several Masterclasses on photography. It’s something I still do, especially when branching out into a new field of photography work.

Bud, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a photographer, specializing in concert and promotional photography. I started very young in the art of photography; I have had a camera of some sort in my hands since I was a child. Four years ago, while shooting a band with a “fan camera”, I decided to make the leap to professional work.

I am passionate about providing excellent images for local bands. While there are several great photographers in the area, I set myself apart by providing very clear images that “pop” on social media. Additionally, I provide the same professionalism that I apply to my day gig: I communicate, I show up, I follow through with what I say I will do. And, I provide advertising support on my page for local bands’ upcoming concerts.

I’m always proud and humbled when artists refer to me as the best photographer in the area! Potential clients should know that I’m a reliable and proven performer, aiming to provide extra value for the dollar.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

It was the moment where I decided to take the leap into professional work.

I went to one of my favorite venues with my fan camera (a very good point-and-shoot with a zoom lens). The band had given me permission to take pictures, including getting up on stage with them; I jumped at the chance and took some very good images.

However, there was a professional photographer there – with professional gear. As I saw his images roll out and compared them to mine, I came to a crossroads: he was getting similar images (he’s very good!), but his images were much better, standing out from mine.

I had reached the limits of what my little camera could do. The decision was to keep doing what I was doing (and remain more an enthusiast concert photographer) or invest the time and (a lot of money) into upgrading equipment. Well, I took the leap – and that was four years ago.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

The professionalism with which I approach my craft. I am a punctual person, showing up to shows or shoots when I’m supposed to. I do my best to get images done in a very reasonable time period. And, I aim to exceed expectations of my clients – be it with volume of images, hyping up their next show, or wowing them with the images I capture.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bilphoto.com
• Instagram: budingramlilephoto

Image Credits
Midnight Devils, The Issue, VIA, Other LA, Stormbreaker