If there is a cool spot for lifestyle photography in Los Angeles, Caleb Kuhl will find it.
His vibe for this campaign shot for Chrysler Pacifica with Sapient Agency was crafted with a lakeside “friends night out” in a neighborhood clubhouse story in mind.
When it comes to creating commercial car photography, Caleb doesn’t stop at a beautiful product photo. He crafts the brand’s story through comprehensive lifestyle imagery that pulls the viewer into a storyboard-like vision.
It makes sense that his favorite photos from this shoot are ones that highlight the feeling behind the brand’s message.
“I’m personally drawn to the images of just kids on the clubhouse screaming,” he said. “I know it’s not a car image, but I just love the energy in that one.”
Energy is a key component in Caleb’s shots, and a key component to fueling the adventures he has behind the camera. When it comes to life on set, he says some of his favorite foods to run into are “prime rib” and “cheesecake, always, PLEASE!”
When it comes to cameras, Caleb uses a Nikon d850 for lifestyle images and a Phase One medium format for others.
Caleb says he approaches car photography differently than any other lifestyle shoot, taking extra care to ensure the car is highlighted both as the product itself and through the talent placed around it.
“Cars are always a little different,” said Caleb. “It’s very much shooting a product. You’re dealing with reflections and not just lighting… I usually ‘plate’ the car in a locked off position. Then I introduce the talent and lifestyle. It’s always a composite of both.”
With job perks like cheesecake and open air shoots, Caleb feels he is living his best life at work.
“I’m living the dream!” said Caleb. “Honestly I’m so happy to be doing what I’m doing.”
See more of Caleb Kuhl’s work at www.calebkuhl.com.