Local Talent / Read McKendree
As a creative and social media agency, we understand the importance of surrounding yourself with talented creatives to collaborate with that will elevate your vision and bring out the best of your work. So we decided to start this series called Local Talent, highlighting Rhode Island-based creatives we've worked with on content creation and client projects. We're so excited to share these interviews with you. They're not only full of advice but also give you a glimpse into what makes each of these creatives tick. We hope you enjoy it!
First up is our friend and frequent collaborator interiors photographer Read McKendree. Read is a photographer specializing in architecture, interiors, and hospitality. He lives near the beach in Rhode Island but works all over the United States.
Read McKendree
What is the best thing about working with other creatives?
The collaborative process is so much fun. I don’t have a person to share an office with and bounce ideas off of so I use my time with clients to talk about design, production, productivity tricks, and trends. I’ve learned so much from the designers, architects, stylists, and hoteliers I work with. Although we creatives all use different tools to realize different end products, we all deal with constantly balancing inspiration and ideas with the reality of following through with it.
How do you prepare for your work days on set?
I make sure I know where the nearest coffee shop is, charge camera and computer batteries, tighten loose screws on tripods, and make sure the bluetooth speaker is working. While I often have a quick pre-production call with my clients about the specific project, so much of the preparation happens in person. Getting to know them, learning about their work, and understanding their philosophies and intentions really helps me distill a space into one or two shots.
What makes a shoot day better?
Definitely music and snacks (!) but equally important is being open to collaboration. I love being pushed to do a shot that I might not have thought of or thought was possible. Similarly, it’s important for a client to know that cameras can’t always capture everything the eye sees. Being flexible while on set in regard to shot angle and composition leads to stronger, more impactful images.
Image by Read McKendree for @mcbridearchitect, designed by @karimccabe as seen in @dwellmagazine styled by @olganaiman
What is your biggest pet peeve on shoot days?
Having to take a photo of a dog just to make the homeowner happy. It’s fine in brightly lit rooms but capturing a dog when the shutter speed is 2 seconds is a big ask.
How do you avoid burnout?
Good meals and comfortable hotels are really important. They are the reward for constant travel and long shoot days. And I like to do the occasional team stretch while on set.
Photography by Read McKendree @hannacreativeco studio shoot as seen in @dominomag styled by @francesfinds
How can your clients be more prepared for their shoot day?
Always have a few more accessories than you think you need. Grab two extra throws, 5 extra coffee table books, and two more armfuls of florals. The BEST advice though….hire a stylist!!
How do you get inspired?
Outside of work, I am inspired by downtime. My family and I live in a small-ish town in Rhode Island and being near the ocean and open space helps settle my mind. When it comes time to hit the road again, I am excited to be around people and the inspiration that their talent brings.
What is your advice to creative business owners trying to build their brands?
Be organized. I never thought I would say this, but spreadsheets are so helpful. I track clients, jobs, equipment, and ideas with them. I think it’s good to exercise that other part of your brain.
How much of your success would you consider luck, and how much would you consider hard work?
I once heard a quote - “hard work increases the surface area of luck”. My entire life, I have been very conscious to assess and take advantage of opportunities that have come my way. Saying yes to things, even if I don’t want to do them, has opened some incredibly exciting doors for me.
Image by Read McKendree for Carne Mare by NoHo Hospitality Group shot for Martin Brudnizki Design Studio
What is one thing you can’t live without?
Activities - mountain biking, surfing, skateboarding. These keep me (at least) feeling young.
Favorite song or music genre on set or location?
Depends on the time of day but I like to start off with Michael Nau Radio on Spotify. By midday, everyone is tired of my folk-indie nonsense and we switch to “fun” music.
Beverage of choice during a shoot.
Coffee, duh.
Beverage of choice after a shoot.
Coffee, then beer.
Favorite artist.
Andrew Wyeth
A place to unwind.
Ocean
A favorite hidden gem in Rhode Island.
Woody Hill- a mountain biking trail system in my hometown
Favorite book for inspiration.
Family Houses by the Sea (1993)
Favorite museum.
The Farnsworth Museum.
Favorite places to travel.
St. Barths and Block Island.
Dog or Cat lover?
We have a cat but dogs are cool too.