Please tell us about your start. What got you interested in photography?
Photography has always been of interest to me from a young age. What initially started my journey into photography was the interest of learning how the camera worked. I have a photo I took of a friend holding a grape and the camera was focused on the grape and he was blurred. Why were certain elements in focus and others not? How did the lighting work? These were questions I asked myself when wanting to further my knowledge.
What led you to commercial photography?
I have taken commercial photography courses at Langara College in Vancouver and that gave me the skills to build my portfolio. From there my network pointed me in the direction to get where I am now.
Tell us about shooting high profile subjects. Do you have a favorite celebrity you have worked with?
I have been lucky and honored to work with amazing people like Steve Nash on the marketing for his gyms in Canada, Lori Loughlin for a Celebrity magazine, and dancer/choreographer Louis Van Amstel.
Lori was so nice to work with and really down to earth and easy going. We shot her for a celebrity magazine out of New York. She came to the studio in Gastown and we shot inside as well as outdoors in the rustic areas close to the studio.
What do you enjoy photographing the most when you are not shooting an assignment?
When I’m not on an assignment I tend to lean toward more creative photography whether it’s architecture, cityscape or landscape.
Do you have any words of wisdom for photographers who are just getting started?
The best advice I can offer a fellow photographer would be to look at everything as a learning opportunity and help those around you rise within the industry. I believe in surrounding yourself with great people and there is always something to be learned from all levels in the business. My assistants surprise me all the time.
Erich Saide is an award-winning photographer whose clients come back to him time and time again for his crisp, highly polished imagery. From soft and sensual to edgy and dramatic, his stylized, cleanly executed photos use incredible lighting to capture a diverse range of moods. After more than 15 years in the business, Erich’s body of work spans an impressive breadth of styles and industries. Highly motivated, energetic and full of passion for his craft, whether it’s in the studio, on location, or by the side of a film set, Erich is happiest when he’s creating powerful and dynamic images. See more of his work at his website.