You create your own challenges. To what level do you want to take it?
Brett Schauf
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Brett Schauf’s story is one of adaptability, passion, and pursuing growth through creativity. What began as a hobby in high school became a career spanning over two decades, where Brett explored various genres of photography, from weddings to commercial portraits, and ultimately found a deep connection to aviation photography.
With roots in the film era, Brett transitioned his craft and studio into the digital world, all while maintaining a focus on the artistry and technical precision that define his work. His Wichita-based studio, T&J Studios, has become a hub for corporate clients, branding campaigns, and even fine art projects, reflecting his belief in blending business acumen with creative expression.
Brett’s fascination with aviation photography reflects his passion for climbing to new heights—both literally and figuratively. Whether photographing airplanes in flight, restoring a B-29 bomber to its glory, or capturing the intimate details of an aircraft interior, his work pushes the boundaries of storytelling through visuals.
His philosophy is simple yet profound—keep learning, keep improving, and always stay open to new challenges. Brett has mastered balancing unplanned, candid moments with carefully structured photo sessions, showing a rare versatility that is key to his craft.
Here are three major highlights from our conversation:
- Brett shared his evolution from a part-time photographer to a skilled professional at the forefront of corporate and aviation photography.
- We explored his creative process and how he balances on-the-fly shoots with highly detailed, planned photo sessions.
- Brett offered insights into continuous learning, how photographers can leverage the tools they have, and why staying curious is crucial for growth.
Talking to Brett was equal parts inspiring and enlightening. His dedication to refining his craft while fostering meaningful industry connections serves as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Enjoy the episode.
Q: Has photography been in your family or did you just kind of stumble upon it when you were younger?
Brett: It’s always been something I’m familiar with, family vacations and things for example. My father and grandfather always had cameras. So that it was always there. But the thought of doing it as a career was never really present. It was always as a hobby-based perspective.
Q: How did your background in marketing influence your approach to photography, both creatively and as a business owner?
Brett: I think more as a business owner, photography was the creative outlet. It started as a hobby. It turned into a recognition that there was a way to create an income and maybe build a livelihood. From an education standpoint, the marketing degree has come into play with how you run the business side of it. It’s two very distinct aspects of being a studio or commercial photographer. There’s the creative side, the behind the camera, the editing that is just almost innate. But then the business side of it is the contractual side, dealing with clients, negotiations, and sales, and just the everyday running a business aspect of doing it, which is where the education from Wichita State’s really been beneficial.
Q: How does aviation fit into all this? Because I know that’s a big part of who you are as a photographer. Tell me a little bit about how that started.
Brett: Aviation has always been something I’ve been very interested in that has certainly grown into a passion. Growing up, you know, father, grandfather, uncles were all involved with the aviation industry in some shape or form. Growing up in Wichita, of course, we had three large manufacturers at the time I was growing up building airplanes. And so it’s just kind of a very ingrained process or just something you’re around and got used to.
Key Links and Mentions from the Episode
Connect with Brett Schauf:
Website
Instagram
People Mentioned:
- Joel Grimes: Renowned photographer and educator: Website.
- Edwin Remsburg: Agricultural and aviation photographer from Maryland: Instagram.
- Josh Wells: Collaborator on the B-29 Doc project.
Places and Locations:
- Wichita, Kansas: Brett’s hometown and a major hub for aviation manufacturing.
- Wichita State University: Brett earned his degree in marketing at Wichita State University.
- Hoover Dam, Nevada: Mentioned as a setting for aerial photography from the B-29 Doc.
- Maryland: Mentioned in relation to photographer Edwin Remsburg.
Tools and Gear:
- Hasselblad Cameras: These were mentioned for use during Brett’s early film photography days: Website.
- Mamiya Cameras: Early film cameras used by Brett: Website.
- Mavic Mini SE2: Discussed by Perrin as a drone used for photography: Website.
Projects and Opportunities:
- T&J Studios: Brett’s commercial photography business specializing in corporate portraits and aviation photography: Website.
- B-29 Doc Restoration Project: Brett served as the lead photographer, documenting milestone moments and tours for the restored aircraft.
- Video Services Expansion: A recent addition to T&J Studios to provide comprehensive visual content for clients.
Key Themes Discussed:
- Transition from Hobby to Career: Brett’s journey from a passionate hobbyist to a full-time professional photographer and studio owner.
- Challenges of Running a Photography Business: Balancing creativity with the demands of business operations and adapting to industry changes.
- Aviation Photography: Combining technical skill, coordination, and spontaneity for air-to-air and on-ground shoots.
- Evolving with Technology: The balance between embracing new tools and maximizing the potential of older equipment.
- Importance of Passion Projects: Using personal endeavors to maintain creativity and avoid stagnation.
- Flexibility in Photography: Adapting to challenges like weather or mechanical issues during complex shoots.
- Mentorship and Teaching: Brett’s involvement in workshops and his aspirations to expand educational opportunities in photography.
