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

Hi Pepper, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I came from a background of waiting tables in Tulsa, Oklahoma before I moved to Dallas, Texas to pursue a full-time career of automotive photography. The thought process to make that switch was a brief process, as shooting high-end and fast cars full time versus the service industry was a clear no-brainer for myself. Of course, there are several challenges that come with starting your own business, and especially in the creative space; but those challenges are well worth pursuing your passion and having fun while doing it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been shooting cars for 15 years now, and thankfully every shoot is still a learning experience. What sets my work apart? I’ve built a bit of a niche for shooting for collectors, groups, and manufacturers around the world with a very surreal and vivid style. I’ve also taught editing courses for thousands of people around the world, shot in over 50 countries, for every car manufacturer I love, and even wound up racing a Lamborghini on a Netflix show “Fastest Car” thanks to my camera. I’d say it’s been a nice ride.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve called Dallas home for 15 years now, and my favorite spots in the city have of course evolved. Right now without a doubt my favorite area is Lower Greenville, and it aligns with my favorite hobby: going out to eat. My favorite restaurants? #1 without a doubt is Shoyo – best Omakasa sushi spot in Dallas hands down, and Chef Jimmy Park is a legend. Also love some Wabi House, Town Hearth, Goodfriends, E-Bar Tex Mex, and Fachini.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve got to shout out the automotive photographers that initially inspired me to begin shooting cars in the first place, and thankfully all of them have become friends by this point. The first shooter that caught my eye was Webb Bland (https://www.notbland.com/) – his style definitely inspired my own, and made me pursue this career seriously.

The next shooter that has taught me a lot of what I still implement to this day is the legend Richard Thompson (https://rvt3.net/) – not only an incredible human, but one of the most talented photographers alive.

Website: https://www.pepperyandell.com

Instagram: @pepperyandell

Image Credits
Pepper Yandell

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