The Photek Softlighter II Umbrella… the Best $115 You’ll Ever Spend

Chicago Photographer John Gress using a Photek Softlighter II Umbrella

When I received a Photek Softlighter II for Christmas in 2015, it quickly became one of my most treasured tools. I first became aware of this miraculous modifier when I discovered my favorite photographer, Art Streiber’s work on Instagram and I noticed him using a ten sided umbrella while shooting Placido Domingo for Vanity Fair. I loved the way it looked and rather than just asking him in a comment what he was using, I went on a day long journey to find it and once I did I never looked back.

Chicago Actor Headshot photoshoot Amir Y

Chicago Actor headshot photographer John Gress Rogers Park

I met Chicago Actor and Model Amir Y while doing a photoshoot for another client, which will be released soon. He was so wonderful to work with that I asked him if he would be willing to do a actor headshot test shoot and thankfully for me, he said yes. The shoot wouldn’t have been a success without the hard work of stylist Isaac King.

Steady Focused Interview: Going Full Circle

Chicago Photographer John Gress Steady Focused Interview

A few weeks ago I had the great pleasure and honor of spending the lunch hour chatting with Simeon Hendrix, and recording an interview for his Steady Focused web series. Which covers photography, filmmaking, lighting, lenses, cameras, etc…. discussing how to identify weak points, overcome struggles, how to succeed and how to live a fulfilled life. Their most important rule is to work hard, love yourself and have fun!

The Making of Marcus Matteo’s Boomerang Music Video

Chicago Music Video Director

As a Chicago music video director, I am always striving to hone my craft by using news tools and techniques. My latest music video for Marcus Matteo was my first 4k project and I shot it almost exclusively in 4k DCI with a Canon 1D X Mark II camera.