Swarbrick's subjects don't have to smile, just act natural

If photographer Lisa Swarbrick is shooting a teenager who loves to skateboard, she goes to a skate park. A family who spends a lot of time on its boat should be shot on the water.

The Barrington business owner believes putting her subjects in their surroundings will make a better picture.

"I generally do a traveling studio," Swarbrick said.

The Barrington High School graduate recently started Lisa Swarbrick Photography in which she takes a photojournalist approach in her work.

The business involves a corporate and personal side.

When working with the corporate client, Swarbrick handles everything from product photography to event coverage. For example, she'll cover a golf outing or a formal gala and then have photographs ready at the end of the event for participants to take home.

"People enjoy having something to take home with them to create the moment," she said.

Swarbrick has a master's degree from University of Chicago in market research. The business owner is a consumer insights specialist and conducts market research for companies, looking at competitors and other business areas to come up with a strategy or plan of attack for the client. She often uses graphic artists or works with video to create a complete package.

On the personal side, Swarbrick shoots a lot of weddings, also taking a photojournalist approach. Her work is contemporary, capturing more of the interactive and fun parts of the wedding.

She earned a degree in photojournalism at Ohio University. She charges $1,500 to $5,000 for weddings.

Family portraits are also a big part of her business. She first meets with her client to find the best setting for the family. Home gardens, a favorite park or in front of the fireplace are options.

"I want them to feel in their element," she said.

A portrait session starts at $300. She often turns her portraits into Christmas cards. Upscale portraits for seniors in high school are also part of her portfolio.

Swarbrick began her career when she moved to Barrington from Dublin, Ireland when she was 16. "I was on the yearbook staff at Barrington High School and took every photo class I could," she said.

While studying at Ohio University, she had the opportunity to travel to Edinburgh, Scotland and study the craft in a photographic field-school conducted by National Geographic photographers.

Swarbrick, 24, believes it's important to take the time to capture some of everyday life. "Life happens. We have to dedicate the time to getting these fun shots," she said.

For more information, call (847) 508-9502.

• Kim Mikus' column appears Tuesdays and Fridays. She can be reached at (847) 427-4567 or at kmikus@dailyherald.com.