Seyed Ahmad Beheshti
1. Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
My name is Seyed Ahmad Beheshti, AKA Arash Beheshti. I am a multi-awarded photographer/designer. While I was studying for my B.A. in Design, I discovered the strong relationship between advertising and photography. With the help of my prior knowledge of film photography, I soon learned and mastered digital commercial photography.
2. Where did you study photography?
I graduated from a technical high school in Graphic Design. That was where I learned film photography and was the beginning of my journey to get into photography. After high school, I studied digital photography and studio lighting on my own and became a self-taught commercial photographer.
3. Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
It was a shot of my classmate holding his camera and taking pictures of me at the same time.
4. What equipment do you use?
I love studio photography, and I mostly use studio strobes to control light. My lighting kits are all made by Profoto, and I use a Sony camera and lenses in my studio.
5. What do you hope to achieve?
I hope to create such photographs that will stay in people's hearts forever. That is the greatest achievement I could ever get.
6. What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
I try not to let compliments or criticisms bother me too much. I believe that is all ego. Instead, I focus on my goals and on what makes me happy.
7. What inspires your unique storytelling?
My ideas are drawn mainly from Listening to music. Colors also play an essential role in the process of my creation.
8. What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Neat, saturated, and obvious.
9. Congratulations! As the winner of the New York Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
Thank you! It is an absolute honor to win this award, along with many other incredible photographers.
10. Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2022 New York Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
It is a commercial/product shot of a watch, visually promoting its brand slogan: Speed And Intelligence. It is one of my most-awarded works, so I wanted to take my chance and enter it in the NY Photography Awards and see what it can achieve in this competition.
11. How has winning an award developed your career?
It can take your career to the next level? and raise your expectations to achieve more.
12. Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Joe McNally
Karl Taylor
Tim Wallace
13. What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
The best camera is the one that is with you.
14. What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
I would suggest investing more in education rather than photography gear. Equipment is worthless if you don't know how to shoot or how to deal with your clients.
15. What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
I never stop learning.
16. How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
I am barely satisfied with my photography. This habitude makes me eager to gain more knowledge and improve my photography every day. As Henri Cartier-Bresson said: “Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.”
17. Anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I would like to thank NY Photography Awards and its amazing jury for selecting my photo as the Silver Winner, so I could have this interview with you.
