Anjali Pinto, a CoEdit photographer for the "Spotlight Chicago" collection, splits her time between freelance work and in-house photography for a bustling restaurant group in the city. Here, Pinto answers ten questions about working in the industry.

1. What was your first big break into photography? 

As a junior in college, I was accepted to Eddie Adams Workshop. It was a huge surprise and great honor to be surrounded by world-class journalists and storytellers. The level of talent inspired and terrified me. It was my first chance to introduce myself to people I admired, and a glimpse at how connecting with a fellow photographer as a friend is more valuable than passing a business card.

2. What is your favorite genre of photography and why?

I’ve always admired photographers who can commit to long-term documentary projects. True stories and real people draw me in, but I love portraiture and editorial work in any capacity. 

3. Did anyone give you any advice you've kept with you? If so, what was it?

In 2011, the year I moved to Chicago, I attended the Strictly Business conference held by the American Society of Media Photographers. Susan Carr was a speaker and coordinator of the event, and she led a workshop on licensing and rights. 

Having a photojournalism background, I was so naïve to the value of work and the impact of photography on sales and business. She sat us down and told us to never give our rights away for free. In her photography book, she writes, “To find your calling is a gift.  A purpose provides the drive to pursue excellence along with an unwavering belief that your work is of value.” I really connected with her values and knowledge, and it filled me with the confidence to make educated estimates for clients, which in turn has given me a chance at making a living as a photographer.

4. What advice would you give to someone you wish you would have gotten?

Don’t be intimidated to reach out to the people you admire. They may be busy, or they may not respond, but there’s also a chance they will take the time to get coffee, brainstorm, be an advocate. 

5. Whose work has inspired and influenced you the most?

My fellow friends and photographers I’ve met through Phoot Camp. We are rowdy and fun-loving, but also dedicated and passionate artists. It’s invigorating to be surrounded by people who want to be better, to collaborate and to be open.

6. How has the industry changed since you started?

It was an assumption when I enrolled in school for photojournalism that there would plenty of staff photography jobs by the time I graduated. But through those 4 years, the options became bleak. I was not prepared to live in small towns across America and work my way up to a low salary at a better paper full time. So I moved to Chicago, started bartending, and tried to get freelance work. My food/event work got noticed, and shortly after was hired by a bustling restaurant group to document openings and create photography for advertising. 

7. What steps have you taken to stay relevant?

To stay relevant in my freelance side business, I work on personal projects. I think people notice and pay attention when you’re shooting something you love.

8. Name one anecdote from a memorable photo shoot.

I was recently on a shoot for a Chicago publication, highlighting a renowned wine distributor before his 80^th birthday. The shoot took place in the suburbs at the company’s enormous estate, full of historic architecture and expensive artwork. It can at times be intimidating to photograph a man of stature and prestige, but I never let my trepidation show. I just exude confidence and warmth and get through the shoot. Luckily, the subject had no ego, he listened to my direction and he told me he trusted me to do a great job. When the shoot wrapped, he invited me to stay for lunch. I had no idea it would be a 4 course meal with wine pairings, dessert, and espresso. We ate clams in white wine and butter with a glass of champagne, and that day I felt truly privileged to be a photographer. 

9. What makes a good photo or photographer stand out from the average?

I think a consistency in quality and vision can make a photographer stand out. I often look through portfolios and get stuck on an image I really dislike. You remember that sometimes more than the images that are great.  A great photo to me sets a mood, makes you feel something.

10. What do you want your viewers to take away from your work?

I hope my audience can find a sense of calm and serenity in my images. Especially in the water series, featured by CoEdit, there are pictures from all over the country and world where I basked in nature’s beauty for a moment. Being a photographer to me means being a keen observer and I hope that my work can inspire others to see more beauty around them.

Check out Anjali's work in the Spotlight Chicago collection and on her website.