Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I currently live in Los Angeles but spent the first three decade of my life living all over the greater Boston area. I went to school for accounting and had a successful job as a forensic and litigation consultant. I investigated various types of corporate frauds such as earnings manipulation, insider trading, money laundering and terrorist financing. I would create a story based off of financial transactions, calculations, emails and interviews. Now I create stories with a camera.
When did you realize your passion for photography?
There was a combination of things happening in my life when I first started taking pictures. I had recently returned from working in Afghanistan for 6 months and had a much different view of the world around me. I felt like I had taken so much for granted and had let so much pass me by. I didn’t know how to stop this feeling. Then I came across a picture on Instagram that said #iphoneonly. I always loved photography but felt that you needed a professional camera to take decent pictures. I then began taking pictures as a way to appreciate all of the life and beauty around me. It started as a therapy and then became a passion.
How has becoming an Instagram influencer impacted your life or career?
Instagram has given me a platform to share issues that I find important. For example, at the end of 2015 I spearheaded a project with the American Wind Energy Association to create more awareness for wind farms and the positive impacts they have on our communities and our planet. It’s projects like this that I find to be the most important and rewarding.
What is your advice to aspiring photographers on Instagram?
Take pictures of what you like and the rest will follow. Also, study the old greats. They’re the greats for a reason.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Two important questions to ask yourself when you’re out shooting is “Why am I taking this picture?” and “What story does this picture tell?”
Instagram: @bradromano | Website: bradromano.tumbler.com
