Meet the Team - Kim Mahair

Join us as we speak with Food Service Direct's in-house photographer, Kim Mahair, and discuss her start and passion for photography and capturing the perfect moment on camera.

Q: How and when did your passion for photography begin?

A: I think it really started when I was a kid. I loved getting disposable cameras and taking them to school and shooting everyone in my classroom or doing little photoshoots with friends. I didn't really consider it as a career until later in life. I was living in LA and a friend who I would often cook dinner for suggested I start a food blog featuring my recipes. I started shooting them on my phone until another friend bought me my first DSLR; a Canon Rebel T3i. From there I built my portfolio and began shooting food and interiors of restaurants in Los Angeles as well as managing social media for local businesses.

Q: Aside from food, have you done other types of photography in the past?

A: Yes, I worked for Instagram/Facebook shooting celebrities and influencers at events. Usually capturing behind the scenes shots and footage.?

Q: What is the most difficult part of doing professional photography?

A: I think it's having the patience to get THE shot. The harder I try to rush a creative shoot, the more difficult it is to find the magic. There is definitely a moment when the light, props, and angles come together and it feels right, but getting there is more challenging?on some days and with certain items.?

Q: Who are some of your favorite photographers and/or photographic styles? What is it about them/it that resonates with you?

A: It's probably cliche but I'd have to say Herb Ritts. The era of the 90's supermodels continues to inspire me. So sexy. So elegant. I love his use of shape, light, and darkness in photos and video. I have a strong connection to the desert and ocean, and when I think of his work, I think sand and water. As a kid, I quietly reenacted Madonna's Cherish video on the sandy shore at Spring Lake. Obviously, he had a great eye and a particular style, but I think he was also part of a time that was really special.? Had he not passed and continued his work, I don't know that it would have had the same effect on me.?

Q: What advice do you have for individuals looking to get started in doing professional photography?

A: Take all of the art classes you can and learn to really see.?