Eric prioritizes STORY first, and that is exactly what makes his photos shine. Each submission feels curated with intention, blending his unique sense of humor with real technical skill. Eric does not lean on one particular style either. His techniques are varied, moving between different lighting setups, color grades, and subject choices with ease. Every frame feels deliberate. A true masterclass in storytelling. This week marks Eric’s 318th frame in the project!
-Yosef
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Name: Eric West
Current All-Time Streak: 291
Joined 52Frames: Dec 2019
Your “walk-around” gear right now:
Nikon Z6iii, 28mm f/1.8
The place you call home:
Boston, Massachusetts, US
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Your life in 30 words or less
Life-long interest in art in general, and have been taking photographs since I was given a Kodak Brownie film camera circa 1960s. I reside in Boston with my wife and 2 well-fed cats.
Can you share 2 images, one from your past, and one more recent, that show your evolution as a photographer?
What has been your favorite style of shooting lately?
I enjoy shooting a variety of subjects and styles (street, portrait, studio, events, and more) in a manner that tells a story and/or presents a “different” view. I am not shy about using photo editing tools to achieve the final image. Note that however, that my use of AI is very limited – photo cleanup, a bit of border extension only.
What was the first photo you ever submitted to 52Frames?
How did you find out about 52Frames?
That was years ago.. I suppose I read an article or saw a posting about 52Frames.”
What submission are you most proud of and why?
I think this image demonstrates aspects of my approach to studio photography, the use of lighting and post-processing.
Here, I was aiming for a bit of the surreal.
Before shooting in the controlled space of a studio for this type of image, I will plan out the shot with sketches and perhaps a few “draft shots” with my cell phone. Lights and background are chosen and the shooting session begins.
As this is a composite image, the pre-planning was key. The mannequin and I were shot separately from the cat. Posing Toad, the cat, required a bit of feline wrangling with dangling things. The final image was post-processed in Lightroom and Photoshop.
One tip you’d like to share?
Keep shooting! Not every picture will be an award winner. Per 52Frames “embrace imperfection” – I know I, for one, have taken my share of imperfect photos. With the weekly cadence of challenges and submissions, your photo skillset will improve – as if by magic! 🙂
Why is 52Frames meaningful to you?
I enjoy being part of this global community of photographers with a range of experience and backgrounds. I think the ability to interact with and correspond with other members is a vital part of 52Frames. Above all, 52Frames has proven to be a warm and welcoming community.
To view Eric’s profile on 52Frames, click here:
Hurrah! I rushed to this blog. I’m a great fan of Eric’s. So happy to have you part of 52frames sir, you enrich it so wonderfully. I look forward to all of your photos. (You and Mickey warm my heart). Heidi M.
I am such a fan of Eric’s as both a human and an artist. It’s fun to read a little more of the background on your journey!
Eric is the epitome of what makes 52F unique and compelling. You just never know what’s going to pop up on his profile!