SALAD Spotlight: Naomi Vance
Welcome to the second instalment of our new interview series, SALAD Spotlight! Here we’ll be shining a light on and getting to know our industry friends and clients. And next up, we’re delighted to feature incredible Scottish photographer and owner of Vance Studios, Naomi Vance.
What was your first big break in the industry?
Taking burger pics for my bestie, Nick Watkins for El Perro Negro. We’ve known each other for over 10 years and I used to help him out before he had his restaurants and we’ve worked together ever since. P.s. He’s smashing it!
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned so far in your career?
Just because you can, doesn't mean you should. When you go freelance or start your own company, there will always be different ways to make money. However, if you follow a path you don’t love, ultimately it won’t last. And you won’t get enjoyment from it. When you do what you love, it shows in the quality of your work and it’s important to stay true to that.
Is there a project or campaign that’s particularly close to your heart? Why?
Jimmy Lee’s cookbook. I’ve worked with Jimmy for about 5 years and have talked to him about doing a book ever since we met. So when he was approached to make a cookbook, he came to me for the photos. I’ve always wanted to shoot a cookbook, and getting to do it with someone who’s a longtime client and friend was very special.
What’s something about your industry that people might find surprising?
You don’t need a degree or to have completed a specific course to be a photographer. I learned mostly from youtube videos, a lot of practice and so much food.
What’s your creative process like - structured or spontaneous?
Each dish of food has it’s own wee story and I shoot it in a way that will make my mouth water just by looking at it. Pinterest is one of my favourite tools for inspiration. I genuinely love images of food and find other creatives in my field utterly incredible, so I spend a lot of time pouring over and analysing food and drink imagery. This gives me a solid bank to draw from when I have to apply it to different brands, subjects and locations.
What role does collaboration play in your work, and how do you make it successful?
Working with other creative specialists allows you to level up your output. It’s important to give each person involved a voice, so I like to create a friendly and open set to allow for true collaboration. Just because you are the lead creative on a project, doesn’t mean you have all the answers. And it’s just as much of a skill to effectively lean on others and bring the best out of them.
In your opinion, what makes a brand or campaign truly stand out?
Staying true to their brand. Having a unique, authentic visual identity will outlast any trend or brand that lacks substance.
What challenges have you encountered (if any) while working from Scotland, and how did you overcome them?
Often creatives outside of London are looked upon as lesser than. The question is asked why you wouldn’t move to London because the opportunity is so much greater. Finding companies and individuals that value you and working hard for them will always provide the opportunities and so much satisfaction.
What advice would you give to someone new to the creative industry in Scotland about building relationships with brands?
Be bold, be proactive, be yourself. Opportunities aren’t going to fall in your lap, you need to go and make them. Get creative about how to reach out. Find good contact information and get yourself in front of people who make decisions about hiring or projects. Find your niche and stick to it. You need to give a brand a reason to want to work with you. Stand out by working on what makes you special.
You can check out Naomi’s amazing work over on instagram at @vance.studios.
