Meet Mikel Conrad | Portrait Photographer & artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mikel Conrad and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mikel, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

My foundation of why I started my Portrait and Commercial portrait studio was first to create great images and memories that told a story of a family or for a marketing campaign. With that in mind, I began to lay the groundwork of where I would like to have a studio and how I could position myself as an expert in the field of portrait photography.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In the early days of portrait photography, those who wanted great images came to my studio where I would create images that were classic and timeless. As the digital age of photography came into play and everyone then became a “photographer” I had to elevate my work to be more artistic and creative in my style.

I then learned how to create composites for HS athletes and others. Playing around with graphic art techniques that began to separate me from everyone else. I then worked on my lighting to enhance and soften it. I looked to the old master artists to see their style in posing and lighting and began to formulate an artistic style of my own.

I am always learning and looking to stay sharp in my career. It is, at times overwhelming, but with discipline and an eagerness to learn and grow, I have learned to hold my style above those around me.

I consider myself more of a cinematographic type of photographer. There is a reason I light and pose my subjects the way.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Las Vegas has many great venues for shows, dining, and entertainment. Weh we have family or friends visit us, we may catch a show or eat out, but many times we take in the vast outdoor recreation spots the area has to offer.

Lake Mead, the Valley of Fire, Mtn. Charleston etc.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My wife Lisa bought me my first SLR camera just after getting married. She saw in me my passion and ability to look at people and scenery differently. She has been by my side the entire 30-year career that I have embarked on. Always supportive even during the tough years.

Website: MikelsPhotography.com

Instagram: _MikelsPhotography.com

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/mikel-conrad-776ab210

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikelsphotographyanddesign/

Image Credits
Mikel Conrad Photographer- Mikel’s Photography & Design