Photography is without any doubt artistic, and only the skilled and talented continue to serve in this age-long endeavor that has evolved into many things over time. Photography at its core performs several functions—it can tell a story, capture moments in time, relive memories, or serve as a piece of art. The creativity and attention required of photographers make photography a top-tier artistic endeavor that only a few have excelled in.
Irrespective of what photography represents, Los Angeles-based photographer and videographer Brandon Lawless, founder and CEO of Lawless Media, believes taking photographs has been his calling right from the first time he encountered a camera, at the age of 13. Recalling his obsession, the now-established photographer realized early on the immensities attached to him holding a camera, the meaning he could give to things, the life he could restore or bring to objects through his use of a camera. Moreover, he was convinced without any doubt that being behind the camera gives him more power than being in front of it.
Brandon thus decided to pursue photography full-time as a self-taught photographer before enrolling in a film school to hone his photography skills further. There, he was able to take his knowledge and skills to the next level, especially in photography and graphic design.
“During my time at film school, I got into marketing and advertising to help me elevate my skills and support my ability to bring content that will advance my brand and business,” Brandon recalls. “By doing all that, I was able to run a social media account for a Division One football team, work with well-known producers, music artists, music labels, and more.”
While Brandon admits that success has been his major drive, he wasn’t always successful in his journey as an entrepreneur. He recalled his post-college years where he found himself in the pool of stagnation, with no idea how best to proceed, move forward, or operate. Until he met a friend, Dev, who worked at Atlantic Records as a mixer. According to Brandon, Dev’s invitation to Brandon to visit the studio changed his life forever because, after the visit, he simply became unstoppable.
Since he visited Atlantic Records, the Los Angeles native has worked with influential celebrities such as Big Sean, Dom Kennedy, Bino Rideaux, and more. In addition, he has also taken photos of the likes of Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Migos, Cardi B, Lil Uzi, and many more celebrated people.
But the Los Angeles-based freelancer isn’t just about photographing people from the music industry; he also had the privilege of working with people from the sports industry, personal trainers, influential brands, colossal music festivals and concerts, famous make-up artists, apparel brands, and more. As a result, his work has been featured on numerous platforms such as Apple Music, Complex & Complex Sports, FADER, Lyrical Lemonade, YSL (MUSIC), and Virgil Abloh, to name a few.
Although he is a freelance photographer, being in the right place at the right time in the right company is an essential ingredient for every magical photograph he has created.
“I love sharing my art with people, especially knowing that a lot of individuals love these certain artists and listen to them daily. Also, having the ability to take photos of celebrated figures and share them with the world is a great feeling,” Brandon shared.
