We recently connected with Larry Braun and have shared our conversation below.
Larry, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
How did you learn to do what you do?
I acquired my skills through a multifaceted approach, leveraging three primary avenues to learn my trade.
Firstly, I enrolled in an online course in professional photography. This course served as my foundation, equipping me with fundamental knowledge of the craft and providing insights into the various types of photography. I gained a comprehensive understanding of composition, lighting techniques, camera settings, and post-processing, which formed the bedrock of my technical expertise.
Secondly, I delved into studying renowned photographers online to learn about the practical aspects of creative photography. By examining their work and analyzing their techniques, I gained valuable insights into the artistry and storytelling elements that contribute to captivating images. This exploration allowed me to expand my creative vision and develop my own unique style.
Thirdly, I adopted a hands-on approach to learning by immersing myself in capturing countless photographs and critically evaluating the results. With each shot, I asked myself what could have been done differently to make it more captivating or compelling. This iterative process of self-teaching and self-reflection has been instrumental in honing my skills and refining my ability to capture the essence of a subject.
Over time, my critical review process has become more focused as I’ve honed in on the specific elements I aim to capture in my photography. While the volume of photos taken has been reduced, the quality and intentionality behind each shot has significantly increased.
Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process?
This is really a hard question to answer. Learning comes in small steps, Each step must be taken to advance to the next. It’s the mistakes that really teach you. Becoming a creative artist takes time, there are no short cuts. I have some suggestions to offer that I did that helped me on my path,
Seeking mentorship. I became friends with and studied some our our areas best artistic photographers.
Focus on projects. Instead of just taking random photos, use a theme and take photos related to this theme.
Experiment with different styles. There will be one style that resonates with you. Discover this style and employ it.
Continue Learning. As technology changes new skills will be needed to stay current.
What skills do you think were most essential?
Photography skills needed are…
Fundamental knowledge of the operation of the camera.
Processing skills are also important. It’s rare to have a professional photo straight out of the camera.
Developing a good eye, knowing what something will look like on a print.
Learning how to be spontaneous. Some of my best photos were taken while shooting something else.
What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
Equipment cost, knowledge of how to become established, knowing what types of photos are marketable etc. are all important however for me, knowledge about what is required to make a professional photo. What does a professional photo have and not have. Knowing what needs to be removed, Learning to straighten the horizons, removing trash from the scene, Producing high resolution images that can be enlarged without loosing clarity. Just a host of technical items that must be addressed that will take a photo from a snapshot to a fine art print. Awareness of these items will help produce a professional product.
Larry, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I grew up in Saint Mary, a small town in south Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri. Despite its historical significance as a Mississippi River town, the river’s course shifted in the late 19th century, causing the town to lose its bustling river trade. During my childhood, I developed a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors through long hikes with my grandfather, Braun. His influence instilled in me a love for the beauty found in the natural world.
After graduating from St. Vincent High School in Perryville, I found myself exploring various temporary jobs without a clear career path. Seeking new experiences, personal growth, and a means to save money for college, I decided to join the US Navy in 1971. During my four-year enlistment, I served aboard the USS Midway, an aircraft carrier that has since been transformed into a museum in San Diego Harbor. It was during this time that I purchased my first professional 35mm camera, embarking on a journey into the realm of photography.
Without prior knowledge of the different genres of photography, I began capturing images that could be described as street photography. During port visits, I wandered the streets, photographing subjects that caught my attention and resonated with me. Unbeknownst to me at the time, this passion would shape my future endeavors.
Upon completion of my military service, I returned to Missouri and enrolled at Southeast Missouri State University, where I pursued a degree in Chemistry. After graduation, I spent 34 years working as a chemist for a local business. However, as retirement approached, I felt a yearning to revisit my love for photography, especially with the advent of digital technology.
Initially, I focused on capturing local landscapes. Living in close proximity to the Missouri Ozarks and the Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois, I was blessed with an abundance of natural beauty to explore. Over time, I honed my skills and began seeking opportunities for exhibition. I joined local artist groups and participated in various art events, showcasing my photographs. Recognizing the limitations of physical exhibitions due to the vast number of images I had captured, I also started sharing my work online, establishing a digital presence.
As my reputation grew, local newspapers took notice and featured several articles on my work and journey as a photographer. In 2015, I made a connection with a photo printing company that supplied artwork to hospitals and hotels. This led to collaborations with several health facilities and a hotel, expanding the reach of my photography.
One of the most significant milestones in my photography career occurred in 2020 when I received an email from the United States Postal Service. They had chosen one of my photographs, showcasing the Mississippi River from the bluffs in Kentucky, to be featured on a postage stamp as part of a series highlighting states bordering the river. It was a tremendous honor and a testament to the quality and appeal of my work.
Throughout the years, I have built an extensive collection of high-resolution photos, capturing the essence of local landscapes, landmarks, and small towns. My images can now be found adorning the walls of health facilities, banks, and other establishments throughout Southeast Missouri.
I take pride in being the go-to artist for providing captivating, high-quality images that showcase the beauty and charm of the local region. My goal is to continue sharing my passion for photography, offering glimpses of the natural and rural scenes that surround us, and preserving the unique character of these landscapes through my lens.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the recognition and notoriety I have received for my photography, as well as the impact and comfort it brings to people who have viewed my photos. The fact that my work has been featured in numerous newspaper articles and television news segments is a source of great pride, as it signifies the value and appeal of my artistic endeavors.
What truly brings me joy is when people in my community recognize me as the photographer and express their enjoyment and appreciation for my work. It’s incredibly gratifying to know that my photos have become a part of their daily lives and have resonated with them on an emotional level.
However, the most fulfilling experience for me is when my work is displayed in hospitals. Providing a small dose of comfort to individuals who may be facing physical ailments is an incredibly rewarding and humbling experience. Knowing that my photographs can bring a sense of solace and serve as a source of inspiration during challenging times is what drives me to continue creating.
In summary, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and photographer for me is the recognition I have received, the joy it brings to people’s lives, and the opportunity to provide comfort and inspiration through my images.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
A lesson I had to unlearn was my initial perception of the art world. Like many others, before delving into the process of creating and selling art, I had preconceived notions about how it worked. However, I quickly realized that my assumptions were incorrect. The art world, particularly when it comes to selling art for profit, is a business that operates under certain market dynamics.
I had to let go of the idea that I could simply create whatever art I wanted and expect it to sell effortlessly. It took time and experience for me to understand what kind of art resonates with people and what they are willing to purchase. I learned that successful artists pay close attention to the preferences and interests of their audience, taking note of the pieces that people are most drawn to and willing to invest in.
Through this process, I discovered the importance of finding a balance between artistic expression and market demand. While it is crucial to stay true to my creative vision, I also need to adapt and create artwork that aligns with what people want to buy. This realization has been a valuable lesson that has shaped my artistic journey.
In essence, unlearning my misconceptions about the art world and embracing the need to create art that resonates with potential buyers has been a pivotal lesson for me. It has allowed me to navigate the art market more effectively and strike a balance between creative expression and commercial success. 
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.larrybraunphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larry_braun_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LarryB52/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-braun-315b0740/
Image Credits
All photos were taken by Larry Braun