Meet Ryan Bringas of Ryan Bringas Photography in West Chicago

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Bringas.

Ryan, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I picked up photography in college in my early 20s and quickly learned I was drawn to it. I was lucky enough to learn how to develop film and digital which became the base of my technical knowledge. Through the help of a few professors, Elizabeth Ernst and John Morrison, I got my foot in the door by assisting. I interned with Paul Elledge for half a year and worked at Bang Bang Pie Shop in Logan Square. Both of these experiences allowed me to network and move into freelance full time. I knew then I wanted to pursue food photography and people. Though the industry seems large at times, connections and references pay off in the long run. People recognize that without the work of everyone’s talents, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

Has it been a smooth road?
By habit, I always take the hard road. If I don’t know how to do something I ask questions and research a lot. I think freelance can be amazing when your busy, but I never feel comfortable. That little feeling is what makes work more enjoyable.

The most trying time for me was when the moment came to decide to be freelance full time. It feels like you just put your whole life savings on a bet and the odds are not in your favor.

Second to that, creating my first big estimate for a job with a crew of colleagues that I admire and respect and not knowing how it might turn out. Being creative alone is a lot different than it is in front of your peers.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Ryan Bringas Photography – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Transparency is not often found in the creative world as well as cost. There’s a big emphasis on rate, usage and time. I like to be upfront with how I spend my time and why I bill at said rate. If a project is small, I estimate accordingly. I never take on more than I feel comfortable with.

I have a great appreciation for story and experience. I am open to collaboration and try and connect to a clients journey. I think communication is key. The most satisfying part of a job is finding the unexpected. A moment, an idea that’s spontaneous.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Chicago is a food centered town. It’s full of creatives from all different backrounds. Having just won food city of the year from Bon Appetit, I’m excited to see what the future has in store. Summer is the best time to be in Chicago, but pure Chicago is a year round job.

Travel outside of using public transportation, commuting through the city can be hard. I think that’s a battle that can’t be won!

Contact Info:

• Website: Ryanbringas.com
• Email: ryan@ryanbringas.com
• Instagram: @ryanbringasphotography

Image Credit:
Samantha Hylla

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