Photographer Ken Morris – AAAAImage

Ken is the first winning Photographer of the GlamGurls Competition (Photographers Category). Ken was invaluable to us at GlamModelz Magazine as a beta tester on the site and has a unique and artistic look as well.

GlamModelz; Tell me Ken, How did you get your start in photography?
Ken; I started enjoying the art of photography the moment my father handed me a brownie camera, when I was five and have been into photography ever since. In early 2005 I purchased a Canon 20-D and joined the Digital age. I’m comfortable behind any type of camera as I’ve used 8×10, 4×5 and varied other medium format film and Digital cameras. I started shooting professionally in 2007 as AAAA Image. I work in many different aspects of commercial photography, I love working with people and often shoot large family reunions, weddings, portraits, and portfolio development for Fashion, Glamour, Beauty Models.

GlamModelz: Why Glamour and Beauty?  What other genre’s and styles interest you? Ken: I have to say that Fashion or Glamor is not one of my forte’s I am more of a nature photographer , my good friend John Valerio has inspired to shoot  more of the glamor stuff which resides on some of my portfolio’s I really like shooting live bands and the emotion that they show while performing.  I also enjoy Nature , Landscapes, Motorsports and Architecture. I do get a kick out of the models when they see themselves in a shot that tuned out well and they get all giddy, that is very satisfying.   One girl that I shot was one that never wore makeup and after our shoot I’ll never forget her saying “I really am hot” that is the stuff that keeps me inspired.

GlamModelz: What or who inspires you as a photographer? Ken: Frizzy Cube, Rolando Gomez, Vincent Versace, William Neil, Ansel Adams, Brian Peterson.  RIP.  Many other  great  and relatively  unknown  Photographers  and Photoshop Wizards  have inspired me.  One in particular with no camera scanned  a seed pod  and created a work of art that was hung in a local Gallery and won an award from  (CCA )California Commission of Artists.
GlamModelz: What challenges do you face in this industry?  What would you change about it, if you could? Ken:  In the Glamor and Fashion Industry only a very select few enjoy making a decent living from their work. I plan on being published at least once and build on it from there.  If I could change anything would be to see more talent developed at local levels that give the “Big Boys” a run for their money.

GlamModelz: What equipment is essential for you as a glamor photographer, to capture your “best shot”? Ken:  Large sources of soft light is essential to create a pleasing shot.  I really like shooting outdoors when there is high solid overcast with large apertures.
Also very helpful is an assistant who knows light and can properly assist you in the best use of light.  I always say Light is to photography as blood is to the heart. The hype about which Camera is best is a bunch of hogwash, the 12” behind the camera is the most important.   I’ve taken outstanding shots with an oatmeal box, tinfoil and a sheet of unexposed photo paper and some people asked if it was from a 4×5 camera. I proudly state it was a Quaker tube camera and they look puzzled.

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GlamModelz: Paid vs. TF* shoots – What are your views and preferences? Ken:  Although I prefer paid shoots, TF work with the right concept can really enhance your range as a photographer and let you push the limits of your skills and help you develop new ones.  I embrace TF work with the right creative people, brainstorming and creating the concept is almost as much fun as the shoot itself.

GlamModelz: How would you best describe your personal style? Ken: I’ve been described by others as a classical portrait guy, I feel I am still growing as I get older different styles appeal to me ..  One of my strong points I believe is head shots  and the eyes.  Eyes are the window to the soul and the most amazing human organ. The human Eye can see millions of shades of white, grey and black with every color in between.

GlamModelz: What are your goals for your photography?  Other goals? Ken:  Currently I’m working on the Wedding market utilizing trade work with local business’s to create complimentary promotional pieces. In todays economy you have to have something special to attract work.
Other goals… To be a better person, to those of you who know what I did for the past 28 years will understand why I’m a bit stand offish.  To be a better husband  to my beautiful wife; and the best father I can be to my two children.  They are the center of my life.

GlamModelz: What qualities should  Models/MUA’s/Stylists, etc have to work with you? Ken:  I think dependability is the biggest factor with an eye for what works, if I’m shooting and a stylist or MUA sees something  that needs to be fixed or adjusted then they should hop right in and fix the issue. If I discover it before they do, on a regular basis, to me they are not into the business.  I have had some great ideas that came from MUA’s and Stylist’s. Being on time is another factor that I must insist on, I understand that problems do arise but not for three times in a row. That would not be acceptable.

GlamModelz: Tell us about your biggest accomplishment to date or what makes you most proud. Ken:  Being selected as a GlamGurls Photographer is a big deal at this point in my career. This hummingbird shot was selected as third place in an online competition of the Modesto Bee Newspaper readers.  The best is yet to come. 

GlamModelz: What advice do you have for new/amateur photographers who want to shoot glamour? Ken:  Study other great Glamor Photographers and pair up and assist on a shoot with a good one or many.  Every time I watch another photographer shoot I pick up pointers that will work for me and put them into practice. Don’t be afraid to try something new And last but not least don’t be afraid to ask others for help and advice.  I have always bounced ideas and my work off others and received sound advice.
GlamModelz: Any advice for models? Ken:  Yes I do: Be Professional and do not burn bridges!  I also highly recommend reading the guide for all models : http://aaaaimage.com/models.htm
A couple of pages long but worth reading if they want to step up their game.

GlamModelz: In addition to photography, do you have other skills/interests/talents in which you excel? Ken:  I enjoy Riding, Building, Motorcycles and Competitive shooting, In 1999 I was on a team that won a gold medal in Practical Pistol at the Police and Fire Games.

GlamModelz: What other interesting facts would you like GlamModelz readers to know about you? Ken: My birthday is the same as Jack Nicholson!  I was raised on a ranch and I hate Bell Peppers.  I also would like them to realize that no matter where you go there you are! Yes I have a sense of humor too!

GlamModelz: Where can we see more of your work? Ken: My main website, AAAImage ModelMayhem, UjenaTalent, Model Brigade,or send me a message at ken@aaaaimage.com