The Rhinebeck photographer’s collaborative art approach takes clients out of the traditional studio setting. Gone are the days of matching sweaters, awkward smiles, and artificial backgrounds. Instead, clients find themselves in the midst of surreal scenes inspired by great painters, whether it be frolicking in the woods, skiing on a faux slope, or hosting a well-dressed gathering complete with live chickens and tea service. According to Gild, the photographer, it’s an incredibly fun and interactive experience. Each session involves creating five extraordinary scenes that result in breathtaking portraits perfect for hanging prominently in homes or using as mind-blowing holiday cards. If this sounds like something you’re interested in, book now!
Gild’s photography business originally launched in New York City, but it didn’t truly take off until he made the move to Rhinebeck. Following a successful show in Millbrook last September, his work began to gain attention, leading to more bookings. His business grew even further after his portraits were displayed at the Hundred Mile Gallery in Rhinebeck starting in February. Aimée Steele and her family were among those captivated by his work. After seeing his photos at the gallery, they knew they had to work with him. Steele described being taken aback by the intensity, vibrant colors, and captivating scenes in Gild’s portraits. Although Gild has received inquiries from as far as London, for now, he has chosen to focus solely on the Hudson Valley area.
Gild’s passion has always been to create high-end portraits of everyday people looking for a unique experience. His first attempt at launching his business, Rebel Portraits, involved working as a commercial photographer in entertainment and advertising while also pursuing his portrait photography. Initially, his proof of concept consisted of group shots featuring celebrities like Bon Jovi and Shaun White. However, he struggled to find immediate success. It wasn’t until the pandemic hit and Gild relocated to the Hudson Valley with his family that he decided to give his family photography idea another shot. This time, he reimagined his approach as a creator and artist, showcasing his niche portraits in a show at Studio 44 in Millbrook. The goal was not to sell the photos on the walls but to sell himself and his unique vision.
Gild’s unconventional process with families starts with getting to know them and their individual preferences. He aims to find their voice within his own artistic style. Each family receives five distinctive scenes, tailored specifically to their personalities. The scenes range from comical to intense to eerie. Gild meticulously plans out every detail, sketching out the sets and determining where each individual will stand. Once the planning is complete, he assembles a team that includes props, crew members, gear, and hair and makeup artists. The families usually provide their own clothing, although Gild has been known to incorporate unique items, such as a carefully curated wardrobe rack he discovered in a client’s home. While originally planning to photograph an equestrian family with a horse in their living room, Gild had to pivot when their trainer rejected the idea. They ended up using chickens instead, resulting in a perfect and unexpected solution – although it did make quite the mess!
The Steele family, consisting of Aimée Steele, her husband, and their three children, were no strangers to family photos. However, they always felt that the photos looked stiff and unnatural. That all changed when they discovered Gild’s work. Aimée Steele described the experience of working with Gild as magical. The family is eagerly awaiting a large blow-up of their favorite portrait, titled “The Planting,” which depicts a whimsical gardening scene. The family’s Dutch heritage inspired another scene where they don traditional clothing from the 1800s and pose in a boat on a lake, symbolizing their connection to their motherland. Yet another scene features Aimée Steele’s daughter in a disco jacket and roller skates sitting atop a piano in their driveway, while her son learns to sing and her husband, dressed in a 1970s suit, helps pull the piano with a rope. The family considers these portraits an investment, capturing a unique moment in their lives that will never be the same again.
It’s important to note that Gild’s portraits are not cheap, with prices ranging from $9,000 to $15,000. However, clients like Aimée Steele believe that the investment is well worth it. These portraits are not just photographs; they are pieces of art that capture the essence of a family and a moment in time.
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