Local StoriesDecember 18, 2023

Check Out Brandon Ratliff’s Story

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandon Ratliff.

Brandon Ratliff

Hi Brandon, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hey, thanks for having me. I became interested in photography around 2017 when random scenes in nature would catch my eye. I only shot cell phone photos for a while until I got my first camera – a Canon Rebel T6 – for Christmas in 2018. It took me about a year before I started taking it seriously, and then when COVID hit, I was stuck alone for months as I was working from home for my former programming job, so I used my free time to study everything I could about photography; I’d edit photos several times over to learn new things. During that time, I also had a lot of friends who were laid off of their jobs and turned to selling photos to help keep their bills paid, so I got heavy into that as well. I still do it from time to time, but I’ve certainly settled into my role as a nightlife and low-light photographer since I started shooting for Aura in May 2021. I was recruited there by Tay Pascalar, one of their bottle girls and my (now) best friend. It would be fair to say that she’s the reason I’m able to do this for a living.

Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Not at all. It’s an expensive, time-consuming profession, and photographers are a-dime-a-dozen. It’s nearly impossible to do as a career; it’s a little cliché to say, but I’m married to my work because of it. If I’m out, it’s for a shoot, or a meeting with a client. My “free time” at home is spent editing photos. I don’t sleep much either, as it’s what I must do to keep up with this life. But… it’s the one I chose and I’d do it again.

I also make it a point not to chase clients. Often, someone will post on social media that they’re looking for a photographer, and a friend will tag me. That truly means the world to me, but typically, a sea of others will jump in as well, and it turns into the Hunger Games (because “starving artists,” get it? I’m hilarious, obviously) of photogs vying for the business. I get it, but like with tattoo artists, I’ve always felt that one should hire a photographer whose style or specialty fits the project. I’m known for catching action in low light, for example. I’ve turned down work because it didn’t match my skillset, and I want to do right by the client. I know that’s a little pragmatic for an industry that’s so competitive, but you don’t do anyone any favors by shoehorning yourself as an artist into a job that you won’t do well, just the same as you wouldn’t hire a plumber to fix your car.

I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As I mentioned, my primary specialization is nightlife and low-light photography. I’ve also spent years as a boudoir and content photographer – something I still do a fair amount of these days. But most people definitely know me for my low-light photos. Working at Aura, a very high-profile nightclub here in Kansas City, has put me on the map for that and has since led to me shooting at myriad clubs and bars throughout the area, and occasionally, beyond. Additionally, I’ve connected with DJ Mic KC, a karaoke and wedding DJ who has me cover many of his events. Shooting karaoke shows has been a lot of fun – we even recently had the maiden voyage for his monthly karaoke party bus. Though I have to say, that might have been the single most challenging shoot I’ve ever done. Standing, trying to brace myself on a moving bus as people bounced around, drank, and sang under low, colored lighting? I kept telling myself, “You can do this, you can do this,” repeatedly. Positive affirmation matters!

I’ll also say that being able to help drive business through photos means a lot to me, and when I do my modeling and boudoir work, knowing that clients get to see themselves in such a positive manner that builds their confidence is a feeling like no other. When I send photos back, especially after a session with someone that hasn’t been doing well for one reason or another, and having them react positively – I live for that. I get to help people feel and look their best, and that’s such a cool thing for me.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Being approachable, friendly, personable, and communicative all matter in this business, but the most essential facet is the feeling of safety. Whether shooting in a club, karaoke, boudoir, or nude, I have to project a calming presence to my clients. They need to know they can be comfortable with me, as I often catch them when they might feel physically or emotionally exposed. They need to be able to feel safe with me, and confident in what they’re doing. Discomfort will show in photos; but more importantly, it’s just the right thing to do. A photoshoot should always be a positive, empowering experience.

Contact Info:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atelisphoto
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelisbr/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atelisphoto

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