Born near Chicago, and raised in Kenya, Uganda and Colorado, Paul Steinke brings a global, humanistic perspective to his work as an event and portrait photographer. His understanding and empathy for people of all cultural, situational and ethnic backgrounds informs not just his creative “eye” for the perfect shot but also his ability to communicate with – and understand the needs of – a diverse range of clients.

When asked about his approach to art, Paul speaks of his appreciation for the “raw moments.” He shoots in a photojournalistic style, capturing the honesty of how his subjects are relating to each other and the events occurring around them. At the same time, his photographs are never gritty or unpolished…just real. A grandmother’s hands lacing up a bride’s silk corset, a couple giggling with each other in excitement and anticipation, a flower girl gaping at the proceedings…these are the vignettes that bring joy to the day; these are the photographs that bring life to memories.

“Because the best shots – the shots that truly capture what a person is all about – are taken when the barriers come down, I try to create an intimate and trusting relationship with each person I work with,” Paul says. “To be honest, shooting unique and wonderful people is so enjoyable that it often doesn’t even feel like a job.”

When examining Paul’s background, which includes two years teaching the English language in Kyrgyzstan, it’s easy to see why he has a chosen a career in the field of visual communication.

“Photography speaks when there are no words; it can cross boundaries and create bonds among people who have no obvious commonalities,” he says. “During my time traveling, living and taking pictures all over the world, I realized the impact of this incredible medium and the important ways it allows us to share our worlds.”

Based in Denver, Colorado – but available to travel to any location – Paul offers a number of both traditional and artistic photography services tailored to suit each client’s individual desires, constraints and budgets.