Meet John McCrary | Photographer & Materiel Stock Clerk, MTA

We had the good fortune of connecting with John McCrary and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi John, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Once upon a time, i was a concert promoter in Los Angeles, working to help develop local bands in the heavier music scene, as well as offer touring bands a place to play regardless of the size of the band, or style. I did this for 16 years, and when that came to an end, i was left without an outlet to create, build, and showcase my work ethic and creative skill.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started my photography journey out of necessity. Back in 2012, I was a concert promoter here in Los Angeles, and I needed someone to capture photos of my shows, show off the crowds, live bands, etc. Unfortunately, all the photographers I personally knew were either busy touring with bands, or just didn’t have the time to do so. I ended up buying a camera package, and started photographing the shows myself, since most of my work at shows was done before the show started and afterwards.

I did that for about 6 more years, than opted to stop promoting shows and got out of that industry altogether. In 2019 I purchased a new camera for myself, and started shooting photos of members of the Crossfit gym that I was a member of.

Crossfit photos turned into portraits of my friends and family, and slowly the wheels turned into full on portraiture and working with anyone and everyone I could.

Photography, for myself, has been more about a rediscovery of being able to be creative, while also capturing moments for an individual or business. I love being able to photograph anything I can, but relish most when I can get someone into my home studio, and work with my gear and give that person something traditionally non-traditional.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m lucky enough that my girlfriend IS my best friend. But even so, I love for people to see unique spots in the city of Los Angeles. For walking around and just taking in the sights, I stay away from the common touristy spots, and head to places like Downtown Los Angeles, where you can explore older architecture of old Los Angeles. Nearby, you can visit the Grand Central Market, as well as an awesome place called The Last Bookstore. Another day could be spent exploring the beaches of Southern California. If you want to check out art and unique characters, check out Venice Beach. If you want a little peace and quiet, Charlie Beach in Marina Del Rey is great. The photographer in me heads to either Manhattan Beach, or the small inlet beaches in San Pedro / Ranchos Palos Verdes. San Pedro is another great location for sightseeing and exploring, especially Sunken City or my personal favorite, the USS Iowa. Eateries, I tend to stick to a few favorites of mine. If I’m in the mood for sushi (Always), my all time spot is Masarina Pizza in Bell Gardens. Sushi spot that makes low-key the best simple pizza, as well. I love the Gyu-Kaku restaurants, Ugly Roll in Palms, or El Tarasco in Redondo Beach. I tend to venture everywhere for food.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The people that have always been both supportive and nurturing to my photography has been Ambar Lafaurie, my girlfriend and best friend., as well as my photography mentor and all around classy dude Michel Lim. Ambar has been there to help me with projects and really been a strong person for me when i was doubting a shoot, a style, or anything i thought may not be right. Michel has helped me broaden my skill and scope with photography, by helping me get started and pushing both creativity, as well as my work ethic.

Website: www.johnshootsit.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/johnshootsit

Facebook: www.facebook.com/johnshootsit