Behind the Lens With Photographer Chase Pierson

By inside + out | October 25, 2023

Chase Pierson is renowned for his unique perspective on the Hudson Valley. His photographs offer a modern twist on the region’s timeless beauty, showcasing its picturesque landscapes through aerial views. With over 25 years of experience in photography and a background in film and production, Chase Pierson brings a distinctive and cinematic quality to his art. His work has garnered acclaim not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its ability to evoke a sense of place and emotion. He is excited about his upcoming opening at Made X Hudson which promises to be an immersive experience for attendees. Guests will have the opportunity to explore a curated collection of Chase Pierson’s massive-scale prints, each telling a unique story of the Hudson Valley. From the rolling hills to bucolic views, his art encapsulates the region’s essence in a way that conflates modernity and classic techniques. Let’s get to know more about Chase, a local Woodstock NY photographer in our exclusive interview below. But first, here is the information about his exhibit:

Chase Pierson’s Art Opening

Made X Hudson, 391 Main Street, Catskill, NY
Friday, October 27, 2023 until November 27th, 2023
Opening night is on Friday October 27th, 4pm-8pm

INSIDE+OUT: Where are you originally from, and how did you wind up in the Hudson Valley?

Chase Pierson: I was born in England, raised in the Berkshires and made Woodstock my home in the 90s. That said, over the past 25 years, my work in the entertainment business had me living on the road with touring bands in LA, NYC and Nashville at times.

When did you realize that you wanted to be a photographer, and what was your journey?

My interest in still photography started in 2018, although I have spent over two decades behind TV cameras as a cinematographer and broadcast video director.

You are both a commercial and fine art photographer. Tell us about your style and how that differs from personal to paid assignments.

Doing a high volume of commercial photography work is great to really master the tools and the process. This technical fluency creates more opportunities for creativity in artistic projects.

Describe your creative process.

My creative process is fairly simple: I choose a subject, take some pictures, pick the best ones and edit them. I don’t really have anything more elaborate than that.

How do you decide where you will shoot, and how do you prepare before you arrive?

It really depends on the type of shoot–are we using natural lighting, continuous lighting or high-speed strobes. Usually, I’m shooting on location at a building or an event, and I mostly try to capture people and things in their natural state. I get the people involved used to me just by going around and taking random shots, so they act more natural and forget I’m there.

What type of camera equipment do you use? Do you shoot videos as well?

I shoot on a Sony A7ii and A7iii. And yes, I also shoot a lot of videos.

Tell us about your most intimidating assignment and, on the other side – the most amusing?

When I am shooting for real estate or other jobs where I just show up without too much advance info about the property, it can be a challenge to determine the right coverage approach. Sometimes, when I leave a job, I wonder if I shot enough. Which is why I typically shoot way more than I need.

What is one question you’re constantly asked, or what’s the biggest misconception about your work?

The biggest misconception about my work is how long it takes to edit. Typically, it takes 2-4 times as long to edit as to shoot. Some people think the images that come out of the camera look great. Most of the time, they need light and color processing to get the intended look.

How do you grow your business / How do your clients find you?

Word of mouth — People like working with someone they had a good experience with. Having a website helps, but word of mouth grows the business.

Do you leverage social media to get work, and how is that working for you?

I am surprisingly bad at social media, but I’m working on it.

What would be your dream assignment?

I’m increasingly drawn to documentary-type photography, so anything in that realm.

What are you working on now that you’re excited about?

I’m excited about my debut gallery show coming up on October 27th at Made X Hudson in Catskill on 391 Main Street. I welcome art lovers, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of the Hudson Valley to join me for this special occasion. This collection is a celebration of the local scenery, but it’s particularly interesting because they are mostly shot from my drone, so they are sights most people never see. This collection is a reflection of my passion for the region, and an invitation to experience it through a perspective that often goes unseen. The gallery opening event will feature not only the art but also an opportunity to meet the artist himself. Attendees can engage in conversations about the creative process, inspirations, and the stories behind the locations in the photographs.

What is it about the Hudson Valley that makes it unique to live + work here?

The people and talent I get to work with.

What are some of your favorite places to shoot in the Hudson Valley?

Big Indian, NY and Shandaken, NY.

What impact does your business have on your community?

I’m constantly synergizing. Making new friends and connecting long-time friends with new connections is the most significant impact being a producer and photographer has given me. Bridging connections is the cornerstone of my work.

What local businesses do you rely on to be successful?

Halter Reality Associates, Win Morrison Reality, and Utopia Studio Bearsville.

What is missing in the area that you wish we had?

I wish we had a camera store.

Tell us something about yourself that people might be surprised to know?

I had a brief career as a country music songwriter in Nashville.

What is your current state of mind?

Enthusiastic, this show on Friday is a culmination of so much labor and love, and I’m so excited to share it with the community.

+ + +

Chase Pierson’s Art Opening

Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the grand spectacle of Chase Pierson and experience the Hudson Valley like never before. The gallery opening at Made X Hudson is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together creativity, culture, and the spirit of the Valley. Admission is Free and Open to Designers, Real Estate Stagers, and Patrons of the Arts. Desiring Guests must request to be placed on a list, as space is limited.

Made X Hudson, 391 Main Street, Catskill, NY
Friday, October 27, 2023 until November 27th, 2023
Opening night is on Friday October 27th, 4pm-8pm

About Chase Pierson
Chase Pierson is a photographer and artist with a passion for capturing the beauty of the Hudson Valley.
With over 25 years of experience, Chase’s work offers a fresh and modern perspective on the region’s
landscapes and events. His photography has been featured in various exhibitions and publications, and
he continues to inspire through his unique storytelling. Full artist bio here.

For more details about Chase Pierson and his work, you can visit his website at chasepierson.tv. (portfolio) or his photography services page farleypierson.com

via Website | Facebook | Instagram | INSIDE+OUT Member

+ + +

Search the Inside+Out Directory for Photographers, Stylists, Makeup Artists, Video Services + More!

By inside + out