Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Grassetti.
Anthony, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I began to study photography at School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston (Graduated 2009). From there, I completed graduate school at the University of Chicago. Surprisingly, my graduate degree was actually in humanities, with a focus on film history and the history of photography (as opposed to art practice).
Only upon moving back to the Boston area did I decide to practice photography full-time. Though I no longer work/study in academics, I do try to use my art history background in my current work with models and fashion – whether through lighting technique reminiscent of a painting, figure composition, or merely as a reference.
Over time I have developed a full-time photography business with studios in Charlestown and my home studio in Beverly.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The path to my current career has not always been clear-cut. As I touched upon earlier, I anticipated working in a variety of fields other than photography. Painting, filmmaking, teaching – these were just a few of the careers I had anticipated at points throughout my career.
In addition to figuring out what exactly I would do, I was then faced with the task of actually getting there once I had decided. The world of photography is full of immensely talented artists, all of whom deserve success and will compete to achieve it. I think the only way I was able to find success was to develop my own style, without concern for what others were doing in my area. I think having an element of your work that is unique among your peers is one of the keys to succeeding. To be clear, I am very much still in the process of attaining “success.”. I do not view success and failure as a linear path.
Anthony Grassetti Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I primarily work in the fashion and modeling industry. Though I work with all varieties of businesses and brands, I am primarily hired for my fashion-oriented style. As opposed to a “regional” aesthetic, I try to focus on imagery that works in any market, whether NYC, LA, or Boston.
In addition, I work regularly with established and aspiring models who need to update or create their portfolio. Working with models is one of my favorite parts of being a photographer, as each shoot is a new opportunity to create something different and free of creative restriction. I work with a team of hair and makeup and wardrobe stylists, in order to create high-end portfolios that will allow the model the best possible chance at success within the industry.
Lastly, I work with individual clients who are looking for modern fashion-based portraiture unlike what they might find at a traditional portrait studio.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I was asked to return to the School of the Museum of Fine Arts to give a talk about life as a working photographer. Being back in the school on the other side of the desk was a surreal and rewarding experience. I am happy to say I will be returning this year for another talk at Sandra Stark’s “Making a Picture” class. She is an excellent teacher and was a sort of mentor throughout my education.
Contact Info:
- Address: 59 Park St, Beverly MA 01915 (home studio)
- 50 Terminal St, Charlestown, MA 02129 (Charlestown studio)
- Website: www.AnthonyGrassetti.com
- Phone: (603) 930-7030
- Email: grassettiPhoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: grassettiPhoto
- Facebook: AnthonyGrassettiPhotography
Image Credit:
Christian Adams , Alicia Dane. Credits , Thom Solo.
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