Alex Kleyner is a masterful real estate photographer and an ardent architectural enthusiast renowned for his exceptional talent in capturing the inherent beauty of structures. At age 45, with a rich educational background holding a Bachelor’s degree in Photography and Architecture, Alex has nurtured his craft into a distinguished artistry. Operating from Miami, Florida, and extending his prowess to New York City, his business, Alex Kleyner Photography & Design, showcases the varied architectural wonders of these vibrant cities. His photography is not just about capturing spaces but about immortalizing the character and soul of each structure. Through his lens, the sleek high-rises of Miami’s downtown and the stately brownstones of New York are presented with a new narrative, often gracing the pages of esteemed real estate listings and architectural periodicals. His portfolio is a canvas where the artistry of design and the precision of architecture meet, engaging observers and educating them on the marvels of the constructed world. Alex’s deep-seated passion for architecture drives him to engage with community forums, reflecting a dedication that transcends the act of photography. Embodied by his motto, “Through the lens, I capture the stories that buildings tell, bridging the gap between art and architecture,” Alex Kleyner is not just a photographer; he is a storyteller whose chapters are etched in the skyline.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My typical day starts with the sunrise, capturing buildings in that soft, golden light. I stay productive by planning my shoots meticulously, dedicating time for editing, and scheduling client meetings efficiently. I make lists and prioritize tasks to stay on track and ensure each project receives the attention it deserves.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I bring ideas to life by first envisioning the final photograph in my mind. I consider the building’s unique features, the light, and the angles that will best tell its story. Then, I use my technical skills and creativity to capture that vision with my camera, followed by careful post-processing to perfect the image.
What’s one trend that excites you?
One trend that really excites me is the growing appreciation for sustainable architecture. It’s thrilling to capture buildings designed with the environment in mind, and I’m eager to highlight these innovative structures through my photography.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
A habit that significantly boosts my productivity is waking up early. This gives me a head start on the day, allows me to capitalize on the best lighting for photography, and provides uninterrupted time to focus on my most important tasks.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self to trust the process and not to be discouraged by the slow periods. Building a business takes time, and every experience is a stepping stone to success.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe that the most overlooked buildings often have the most intriguing stories. Many might disagree, favoring grander architecture, but I find beauty in the simplicity and history of more modest structures.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Networking is something I do repeatedly. It’s essential to connect with clients, fellow photographers, and architects. Building relationships is key to growth in this industry, and I’d recommend it to anyone in entrepreneurship.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I feel overwhelmed or unfocused, I take a step back and reconnect with nature. A walk along the beach or a moment in a quiet park helps clear my mind. I also practice mindfulness to regain focus. These methods help me realign with my creative energy and the essence of my work in photography.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Focusing on a niche market has helped my business grow. By specializing in real estate and architectural photography, I have positioned myself as an expert in a specific field, which has attracted clients looking for that level of specialized service.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early on, I took on too many diverse projects, which diluted my brand and focus. I overcame this by streamlining my services, emphasizing my unique selling points, and targeting my marketing efforts to attract the right clientele.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A virtual staging service for real estate that uses augmented reality to help potential buyers visualize a space with different designs and furnishings could revolutionize the industry.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Adobe Lightroom is indispensable for my workflow. It streamlines my editing process, allowing me to adjust lighting, color, and details to bring out the best in my photographs.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
“Architectural Photography, 3rd Edition: Composition, Capture, and Digital Image Processing” by Adrian Schulz is a must-read. It provides valuable insights into the technical and artistic aspects of architectural photography.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Recently, I watched the series “Abstract: The Art of Design” on Netflix, and it truly captivated me. Each episode delves into the creative process of leading figures in design across various disciplines, including architecture, which is close to my heart. What I particularly enjoyed was seeing how the principles of design are universally applied, yet uniquely interpreted by each artist. It was inspiring to see the passion, innovation, and sheer dedication these individuals have towards their craft. This series resonated with me because it mirrors my belief in the power of creativity to transform and tell stories, much like my own approach to architectural photography.
Key learnings
- Pursue Your Passion with Precision: From capturing the essence of architecture to managing a business, success lies in both the creative vision and the strategic execution.
- Adaptability Is Crucial: Whether it’s transitioning from the vibrant streets of Miami to the grandeur of New York or evolving with the digital age, adaptability has been key.
- Networking and Specialization Drive Growth: Building relationships and focusing on a niche market have been pivotal. Networking within the architectural and real estate communities has opened doors.
- Learn from Every Experience: Setbacks, such as over-diversifying my projects early on, teach the value of focus and brand coherence. Every experience, good or bad, is an opportunity for growth.
- Mindfulness Enhances Creativity: Taking time to reconnect with oneself and nature not only combats the feeling of being overwhelmed but also fosters creativity.