From Programmer to Photographer: Eric Hason's Journey of Passion and Adaptability

We recently sat down with Eric Hason, a 63-year-old Brooklyn-based photographer with 22 years of professional experience, to discuss his remarkable journey and insights into the ever-evolving world of photography. Eric's story is a powerful testament to pursuing one's passion and the critical importance of staying current in a rapidly changing industry.

A Third Career and a Therapeutic Pursuit

Eric's path to photography was anything but direct. After college, he spent three years as a computer programmer, a career he quickly realized wasn't for him. This led him into a second career in real estate, working with a partner for 17 years. However, the business became "very difficult" and "contentious," and he found himself burnt out and disliking both the business and his partner.

During the final five years of his real estate career, photography, which had always been a hobby, became a therapeutic escape. He focused on "creating" and realized he "couldn't sustain being in the business". This pivotal moment led him to a profound decision: "I decided I never want to do anything I don't like ever again. What do I like doing? I like taking pictures. Let me see if I can make my avocation my vocation".

Making the Leap at 40

At the age of 40, Eric sold his real estate business, took six months off to go fishing, and then in February 2002, began developing his photography portfolio. He had a financial cushion from selling his business and the support of his wife's full-time job. He initially gave himself five years to develop his portfolio and evaluate his progress. While he was making some money after five years, it wasn't a full living. It was in his sixth year that he realized he was making enough to sustain his new career, even if it wasn't "real estate money".

Finding His Niche in Fashion and Beauty

Initially, Eric planned to focus on lifestyle photography as a commercial photographer. However, during an appointment at a modeling agency, he was told they needed "fashion and Beauty" if he wanted to test their models. He agreed, intending to shoot lifestyle for himself, but soon discovered he genuinely enjoyed shooting fashion and beauty. He liked the collaboration and found it easier to identify clients (apparel and beauty companies) compared to the more agency-driven lifestyle market, especially when shooting film and breaking in as a new photographer.

The Self-Taught Approach and Howard Schatz's Advice

Eric largely taught himself photography, gathering "tidbits of advice" but without a formal mentor. He initially sought to assist famous photographers he admired, but it was incredibly difficult to secure such opportunities, often requiring navigating through agents. A chance encounter led him to a woman who had assisted Howard Schatz, a renowned photographer. After several calls, Schatz finally told Eric, "Don't assist, shoot," and promptly hung up. Eric took this advice to heart, developing his skills independently.

Despite his success, Eric now reflects, "in retrospect I wish I assisted... I wish I had that experience of seeing how other people solve problems". From assisting a food photographer before selling his business, Eric learned a crucial lesson: "it's only photography," meaning while you take it seriously, you're ultimately making pictures, not life-and-death decisions.

A Deep-Seated Work Ethic and the Joy of Creation

Eric's strong work ethic dates back to his childhood, influenced by his immigrant grandfather and a family culture centered on business and hard work. He's always loved working and emphatically states he won't retire because "I love what I do, I love shooting". For him, a good Saturday or Sunday involves being in the studio working or creating personal work. He views personal projects as continuous learning opportunities, whether it's coaching expressions from a new model or maintaining perspective when people cancel. He finds joy in problem-solving and having fun, believing stress is only present "if you let it be".

What truly excites Eric in the fashion industry is not just the clothing, but connecting with people and getting them to help him create "exciting compelling images".

Iconic Moments and Evolving Style

Among his career highlights, Eric fondly recalls shooting a cover story for Neo2 magazine with supermodel Amyra, describing her as incredibly dynamic and "remarkable". Another memorable moment was photographing The Beach Boys (Mike Love's touring band) in Las Vegas, even joining in on a falsetto note during their soundcheck.

Regarding his style, Eric primarily uses natural light and minimal strobes (one or two key lights with bounce fill) in the studio. On location, he prefers natural light but will use fill for commercial jobs. He also emphasizes the importance of pushing himself with model direction. He's always been drawn to "interesting looking people" who "look like they can tell a story" and values collaboration with models to create shared narratives.

The Challenges of Staying Current in a Rapidly Changing Industry

One of Eric's initial challenges, starting at 40, was the lack of industry connections that younger photographers build through art school and early assisting roles. He had to build his network from the ground up, celebrating every client as an achievement.

Today, at 63, the challenge is "staying focused and keeping current". He shares an anecdote about digital marketing experts asking if he was on TikTok. His initial skepticism ("that's for girls making videos...") quickly turned into an embrace of the platform, with some videos even going viral. His mantra to his wife when she questioned his TikTok use was: "how many 59-year-old photographers are still working?".

He notes how digital photography has lowered the barrier to entry, contrasting it with the expensive and difficult film days. While a 15-year-old can now create a "cooler" portfolio with a DSLR, Eric stresses the need for established photographers to "stay current" on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

The AI Game-Changer and the Future of Photography

Eric believes AI is going to be a "real game changer" for the industry and beyond. His advice is clear: "if you don't have a Midjourney account, get one and just put in some prompts and see what it generates". He warns that photographers might become "buggy whips" – a reference to an obsolete industry – if they don't adapt.

He posits that photographers must think of themselves not just as photographers, but as "creative directors" and "prompt artists," staying on top of new technology and being ready to change. The days of campaigns running for months or a year are gone; in the social media era, an image needs to be "memorable in a second". He laments that some talented "old school" photographers couldn't maintain their studios because they failed to adapt.

Advice for New Photographers: Embrace the Beginner's Mind

Eric's core advice for new photographers: "keep a beginner's mind" and "always learning". The industry is constantly changing, and pivoting is essential. He encourages embracing new technologies like AI and understanding their potential impact.

Eric Hason's career exemplifies how passion, hard work, and a commitment to continuous learning can lead to a fulfilling professional life, regardless of when you start. His journey is a powerful reminder that adaptability is the true lens through which we view future success.