We checked in with up-and-comer Garen Barsegian a few weeks ago, and we have a follow-up interview today, talking about how he’s getting his start in the industry.

Enjoy!

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Tell me a little about your background. How did you start shooting?

My background has nothing to do with photography. I have a degree in biology, and was in a competitive graduate program for computational biology. I would only put in about 40% of my full abilities into the program, and realized that if I ever wanted to become successful I would have to apply myself to something I’m passionate about. Film and Photography are two of those things. They consume every waking minute of mine.

My father was a mathematician in Armenia (where I was born and raised), and in the ’80s he had opened up one of the first color film
developing studios. When my family immigrated to New York in the 90s his work moved completely away from photography, but his passion remained. Although he passed away before he ever saw me develop as a photographer he was a huge influence on my decision. While my father influenced my technical development, my mother (a classically trained concert pianist) influenced my creative development.

I owe a great deal to my parents. They made huge sacrifices for my younger brother and me by leaving a country whose post communist regime made it impossible for its citizens to progress as individuals.

What’s your favorite/strongest body of work (or the work you feel most defines you)?

My work is constantly progressing, and I haven’t yet produced a piece that in its entirety is a definition of my style. My first year working as a commercial photographer I’m grateful to have worked with some incredible companies: Ports 1961, Halston, and Sosume are some of those.

Ports 1961 was the company that started it all for me, and I’m extremely grateful for Tony Alcindor’s help. He has been a mentor and instrumental in my progression both as a photographer and as a person.

Share one photo of yours that you particularly love.

Irina Shayk. Shot with film on the Nikon F3.

Share one photo of someone else’s that you are particularly excited about.

Anything by Tony Kelly… he’s incredible, the images are raw, at times tasteless, but he nails the story, the look and feel every time.

What’s next for you, in 2011 and beyond?

The last year has been spent working on short films, and film production in general. By January 2011, my new website will launch highlighting the first batch of work. Make sure to check back then!

See more from Garen Barsegian and his blog.