Frank Gambino from Aperture Photography of Albany, NY started his career as a studio photographer in NYC. He has worked in the studios of such photographers of Francisco Scavullo. Before starting Aperture Photography in Upstate New York and the Hudson Valley he was a Fine Art photographer in Woodstock, NY.

What is your primary camera body?

Canon 1DS MKII

Two lenses you use the most

The 85 1.2 is a must. 70-200 IS and 24-70 get most of the shots.

Do you shoot RAW?

Yes RAW but the EXPODISC may change that.

How would you describe your photography style?

That is a hard question one I hope I never figure out. I try to reinvent myself every few years. I go for the moments and for passion.

Do you normally employ assistants or 2nd shooters?

I always have an assistant. My assistant pushes me to make sure that I also make the wedding the most important day of my life. I do not like to fiddle with equipment. I leave that up to my assistant. I want the camera to be a part of my body.

What do you remember about your first (or one of your first) wedding?

Nervous I was a studio photographer and thought it would be easy. It is both the most challenging and rewarding job there is. It was in the film manual focus medium format days. Counting shots on a Mamiya RZ back and focusing in the dark. It made you so conservative, F8 and do not run out of film. I could never go back. Digital and fast lenses opened up a new world not just for me but for my customers. I converted to digital in 2001 and have not looked back.

If you were getting married this year, who would you want to shoot your wedding?

John Michael Cooper, Bambi Cantrell or Joe Buissink. I could add 5 more to the list that are in that league.

What advice would you give to someone just beginning their career as a wedding photographer?

Study movies and film making and forget cameras and gear. Study light and emotions. Look at other photographer’s use of light. I started out in studios and still love them, but the cutting edge work in the wedding arena. These are great times! Break the rules! Learn early to take care of the business side. If you are not a natural business person get some help. Get a web designer like Big Folio to make your work shine. Offer quality and value and you will be fine. Most of all trust your self and go for it.