Ron Wash is a USC graduate with a BFA in Fine Arts specializing in photography. He lives in Los Angeles with his dog, Sandy.
Ron Wash was a senior level "All Star" apparel designer turned photographer who has worked in the US and aboard. He has won photography awards, been shown in galleries, and his images are part of (CAAM) California African American Museum in Exposition Park. He says with a smile: "You don't need to reinvent the wheel... just create a better one".
He is a member of PhotoShelter, the leader in portfolio websites, photo sales, marketing and archiving tools for photographers.
Why photography?
I've always had a camera. I can remember in my early years doing portraits of relatives such as my great grandmother, Adlena Woodfin. She was a stunning looking woman in her late 90’s at the time. There was something in her eyes I managed to capture (maybe it was life). I was hooked.
What does the medium mean to you?
I use photography to express myself. I like to capture something special about a person with the camera.
When did you get started?
I studied photography at USC in their Fine Arts program as an undergrad. My family thought this was the same as basketweaving! They had bigger dreams for me such as being a doctor or lawyer. During this time only film and darkrooms existed, no photoshop, digital cameras, computers. I spent hours in the darkroom learning. I am thankful for that education as it honed my eye. Plus, I had a great instructor in Robbert Flick, who believed in me and pushed me forward.
What goes into making a great portrait?
I believe everyone has something to offer. If I am intrigued, most often the viewer will be too. This is how I approach a portrait. Each person is different. Every portrait needs to be personalized.
Tell us your most memorable shoot?
I find the shoots where nothing is working are the ones I find most memorable. I have to make it work and try to get a stunning photo anyway. These moments tend to produce my best work. I am forced to rise above the situation.
Do you have a philosophy?
Let the photos do the talking.
What is on your photography bucket list?
(1) A magazine cover for L'Officiel. (2) An adventure with National Geographic in Africa.
Who would you like to do a portrait of?
Megan Markell, Duchess of Sussex; outdoors at Buckingham Palace in a tiara.
