Caitlin Cronenberg, daughter of famed director, David Cronenberg has definitely made a name for herself as a photographer.  Photography, along with fashion, has been Caitlin’s passion since she was very young.  In fact, during the summer she was 13, she shot a roll of film each day.

After completing high school , Caitlin went on to study fashion at Ryerson University.  In fourth year, she landed a job with a community newspaper as a photographer, a post she stayed for a year after she graduated.  Since then, Caitlin has landed many other projects, shooting the likes of Shenae Grimes (Annie on 90210) and at Fashion Week.  Caitlin’s work was recently exhibited at Toronto Alternative Arts and Fashion Week, held in the Distillery District in April. 

Spine

Since graduation, Caitlin has worked on a variety of projects, including a series of nudes photos, which she says is her favourite so far.  “I have just put so much time into it, I feel very close to it and I feel that it is an interesting project that others will enjoy.”  This project has been put into a book, called POSER (NOTE: the above picture is NOT in the book), which will be out in the fall.  Caitlin has also shot stills on film sets, and believes that it is a great way to “marry” her love of photography with the family business.

Caitlin on building her photography business:

I don’t feel like the business is anywhere close to being built. Photography has been my career since I graduated Ryerson in 2006, but building a business takes much more time than that. I feel that I have a solid foundation on which to build, but only time will tell.

On the challenges of having her own business:

Learning the business side while still trying to focus on doing your best creatively has been a challenge. I have had to learn about charging tax and invoicing and contracts etc, which is obviously very important to know. But coming from a creative background I’ve often had to learn through trial and error. I’m happy now that I can run both sides of my business.

On her influences:

I look to the work and dedication of photographers I admire for inspiration when I feel like I need a boost. Whether that inspiration comes from somebody as successful as Annie Leibovitz or a talented local photographer, it is always inspirational and makes me feel motivated to keep working hard.

On where she sees herself in five to 10 years:

In the next five-10 years I would like to continue on the road I have set out. I want to publish my book, begin new projects and put out more books hopefully. I’d love to do more big jobs and work for new beautiful magazines. Have the chance to work with more fantastic people and just work, work, work.

Caitlin’s tips for aspiring photographers:

Anything worth being successful at takes hard work and dedication. Nothing comes easily, but it is possible to accomplish the goals you set for yourself if you are willing to put in the time and effort.