Focus on photographer André Sousa
Photography is more important than ever to get your bar, brand or cocktail noticed. There are some outstanding photographers out there and I want to interview all of them, but let’s start with a dude from Portugal who caught my eye.
Who is this man and why are we asking him questions?
My interview with André
Hi, can you introduce yourself?
My name is André Sousa, I was born in Madeira, Portugal and I currently live in Barcelona.
How did you get your start in photography?
I’ve always been interested in photography and film, but it was when I was working as an instructor for the European Bartender School, that I had the opportunity to take photos of people and drinks on a daily basis. That really got the wheels turning and got me started in this industry.
Did you do any special training?
I studied arts with the focus on multimedia, which involved design, photography and film.
Have you ever been a bartender?
Yes, I’ve been a bartender for the past 10 years, and I’m part of the education team for European Bartender School, which allows me to stay in the business, but with normal sleeping hours.
What attracted you to do drinks photography?
I really enjoy capturing motion behind the bar. In the process of making a drink, there are so many things that happen in a blink of an eye, and that most times we don’t even realise it, like how a liquid pours from a pour spout just before the bartender “cuts”, the way light reflects on a spray, or the ripples on the surface of the cocktail when you drop a cherry. Once I figured out how to capture those moments, I was immediately hooked. Also, my “models” never get tired.
What special skills do you need when photographing drinks?
First and foremost, to understand light. Light is the most important thing in photography, without it, there is nothing to show. The way light can pass through a liquid and take on different colors and shapes really allows for amazing and creative photos. Light helps you to transmit emotion, temperature, and motion.
Secondly, composition. A well composed photo is something that just feels right when you look at it, and it’s the task of the photographer to guide the eye of the viewer to the point of interest in the image, whether that’s the cocktail, the bottle or the bartender.
Lastly, understanding the process. Although this is something the you learn with time, understanding the process that goes into making the drink really helps to create dynamic photos.
How did you build up your portfolio?
Photography and videography is something that I have been doing alongside with my main job for quite some time now. I’ve done a lot of product/studio photography with EBS and I was lucky enough to meet with great people in the industry doing that. I’ve been working with Paradiso in Barcelona for the last 3 years, which being part of the World 50 Best Bars list, opened a lot of opportunities for me to work with brands and renowned bartenders.
Tell us about your most challenging bar shoot.
I don’t want to ruin my lucky streak but I haven’t had a shoot that I can say that it was challenging in the sense of having any difficulties. I’ve recently done a shoot for a big brand in the industry, and I suppose I can say it was challenging in the sense that I put a bit of pressure on myself. The job was to create promotional photos for the brand that will be used in marketing campaigns worldwide, and there was some expectations from them due to some work I’ve done before for other brands. I definitely felt the pressure, but in then end the photos came out great and the client was very happy.
Have you decided to specialize in drinks photography only?
No, drinks photography is something that I really enjoy doing because it’s my comfort zone. I also love shooting food and events, and it’s something that I’ve been doing with more frequency lately.
How did you use your time in your business during the lockdown?
To invest in my portfolio, update my website and really find the purpose of what I like doing.
Are you working on any special projects now?
Yes, I am working on a few long-term projects that I’m really enjoying. All of them involve video work, from working with pastry chefs, to bartenders and brands. There are some really exciting times ahead in terms of innovation and sustainability in the industry, and I’m happy to be able to document it.
Have you or do you plan to publish a book?
I have never thought about printing a book and I have no desire to do so for now.
But the thought of doing an exhibition has definitely been in my mind for a while.
How do you deal with low lighting in bars?
That is the story of my life… My first two regular clients were both speakeasy bars, with no windows and very dimmed lights. Right from the early days I learned to use all the lights available in the bar to help get a good photo. Before I decided to experiment with flashes, I was using candles to back light the drinks, or find spotlights in the bar that would help me light the subject. Now I use flashes in very low light shoots.
Do you work with video too?
Yes, I work with video as much as I do with photography.
What changes have you seen him drinks photography since you started?
There are trends that come and go, a few year ago everything was smoked, then dry ice came around, then at some point everything was stirred brown and bitter.
But now I’m seeing some amazing and colourful creations, and I think it’s due to the fact that bars were closed for so long due to the lockdown. This allowed bartenders to really develop those ideas that they’ve been brewing for a while, and I see some great custom glassware instead of standard rocks or coupe glasses, or crazy garnishes made in house.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I would like to think that within five years I will still be doing what I love, which is photography and film. I have some personal projects in the pipeline such as a short film and a documentary series.
Five questions for André
Real or fake ice?
Fake ice.
Studio shots or on location?
On location.
Fave drink after a shoot?
Beer.
One bar accessory you love to use in shoots?
Spray.
Fave super hero?
The Flash.
Photographer mentor or idol?
Where you can find André
Website: overproofmedia.com
Instagram: @overproofmedia
Email: overproofmedia@gmail.com