Meet Bradley Hart | Commercial Photographer

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

Hi Bradley, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Photography…for me it has always been a vocation, not a job. A true calling is rare, but I knew from the time I was a boy that creativity was going to play a central role in my career. So there really was no choice; I felt compelled to follow this path. A creative career was inevitable for me. Photography, as a medium, has a way of allowing one to capture fleeting moments, but more than that, it provides a unique lens through which to interpret the world. I’ve always been drawn to the challenge of telling stories visually, whether that’s through the elegance of fashion, the precision of product photography, or the complexity of architectural compositions. Every subject has its own personality and narrative, and photography is my way of translating that into something tangible; a sympathetic magic to control my world.

The diversity of fields I’ve worked in—fashion, product, architecture, e-commerce, editorial, and even scientific photography—has been a crucial part of why I stayed in this career. Each genre brings its own set of challenges, allowing me to think differently and expand my technical expertise. For instance, in fashion, the focus is on movement, style, and expression, while in scientific photography, it’s about precision, detail, and sometimes working with things invisible to the naked eye.

At the core of it, what drove me into this field, and what continues to drive me, is the constant evolution of both the industry and my own creative process. Photography offers a kind of freedom to explore, experiment, and reflect on the world from multiple perspectives. It’s not just about capturing an image, it’s about creating a mood, evoking an emotion, and offering a fresh perspective. Photography never stops challenging me, and in return, it gives me an outlet to express both the world around me and my own interpretation of it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Artists like to state what their work is meant to express, what it’s “about” or “dealing” with. Photographers tend to feel they shouldn’t have to explain their purpose when their work is–almost by definition–rooted in reality, plain for all to see (and understand). Pressed to do so, however, I could write that every image I make has been created with an intent: pre-visualized and executed with a purpose of feeling or conveyance of allegory; a concentrated, mechanized effort to shape a visual poetry from out of the depths of imagination. I hope to transform the spark of interest that caught my eye into a fixed, singular illustration for all to admire. And although all that would technically be true, I maintain that my photography is only meant to be a simple exploration of the power of images to fashion an emotional response from the viewer–whether elicited from a connection with content or execution (contrast, color, line, form). Images–and in particular photographs–have come to shape our modern (or if you prefer post-modern/electronic-modern?) society in ways I couldn’t have dreamt of when I chose to pursue the medium as a career more than 25 years ago. Then, cameras were highly technical, difficult mechanisms which required skill, training and practice to master. Today, devices to capture light in electronic form are truly accessible to all and have profoundly, exponentially saturated everyday life. The “decisive moment” is now every moment, “tapped” and shared instantly with the world. If my photographs (decisively momentous or not) can illicit a response amid that catastrophe of visual stimulation soaking western existence–then, artistic vindication aside, statements regarding purpose will have nothing to add to the viewer’s experience. My statement ultimately only must be this: just go look. Pause long enough to see and perhaps feel what I did behind the lens.
The world is, after all, only what we perceive it to be.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Akron, Ohio, I’d craft an itinerary that highlights the city’s unique mix of cultural spots, nature, food, and laid-back places to hang out. Over the course of a week, we’d explore everything from the artsy corners of the city to its hidden gems in the surrounding natural beauty. Here’s how I’d plan it:

Day 1: Introduction to Akron – Downtown Stroll and Nightcap

Morning:
– Breakfast at The Blue Door Café: A cozy spot known for its farm-to-table philosophy and freshly baked croissants. It’s a perfect first taste of Akron’s locally-sourced culinary scene.
– Visit Akron Art Museum: After breakfast, we’ll head downtown to the Akron Art Museum. The museum is known for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, set in a beautiful, architecturally striking space.
Afternoon:
– Lunch at Crave: A quirky downtown restaurant with eclectic decor, perfect for grabbing lunch. The menu blends flavors from around the world, so there’s always something creative to try.
– Walk through Lock 3 Park: Explore the heart of downtown Akron, especially if the weather’s good. Lock 3 is a historic and cultural hub, great for a post-lunch walk along the canal or catching any live events happening. If it’s summer, maybe there’s an outdoor concert or festival.
Evening:
– Dinner at The Lockview: This place has some of the best gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and a stellar beer selection. It’s a casual, fun spot to kick off the evening.
– Drinks at The Speakeasy: Akron’s hidden gem. Tucked away beneath Luigi’s Restaurant, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a craft cocktail in a cozy, low-lit atmosphere.

Day 2: Nature & History – Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Morning:
– Breakfast at Angel Falls Coffee Company: A casual café in the Highland Square neighborhood, ideal for grabbing coffee and a quick bite before heading out for the day.
– Hike in Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Just a short drive from Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers stunning hiking trails. Brandywine Falls is a must-see, or we could bike along the Towpath Trail.
Afternoon:
– Lunch at Winking Lizard Tavern in Peninsula: A great stop within the park. Classic American fare and a wide variety of beers make for a solid lunch after hiking.
– Visit the Hale Farm & Village: If you’re into history, this living history museum offers an experience of 19th-century rural life in Ohio. From blacksmithing to glassblowing, it’s a step back in time.
Evening:
– Dinner at the Merchant Tavern: Back in Akron, this restaurant in Merriman Valley serves upscale pub food with a local twist. Their locally sourced ingredients and craft beers will end the day on a high note.

Day 3: Art, Music, and Local Culture

Morning:
– Breakfast at Fred’s Diner: This old-school, no-frills diner serves up a hearty breakfast. Perfect to fuel up for a day of exploration.
– Visit Summit Artspace: A downtown community hub for local artists. We’ll wander through galleries featuring everything from painting to sculpture, all by Akron-area artists.
Afternoon:
– Lunch at Aladdin’s Eatery: A healthy, fresh Mediterranean meal would be ideal before an afternoon of music and art. Their hummus and tabbouleh are always a hit.
– Visit the Akron Civic Theatre: This historic theater is an architectural marvel, known for its atmospheric interior. If there’s a show, concert, or performance that fits our schedule, we’ll grab tickets.
Evening:
– Dinner at Luigi’s Restaurant: No visit to Akron is complete without stopping by Luigi’s. This iconic Italian-American restaurant is famous for its pizza and salads—simple, old-school comfort food done right.
– Live Music at Musica: Musica is a cool, intimate venue downtown, known for showcasing local and regional bands. We’ll catch a live show to end the night on a lively note.

Day 4: Explore Highland Square & Akron’s Quirky Side

Morning:
– Breakfast at Nervous Dog Coffee Bar: Located in Montrose and Highland Square, this local café is perfect for grabbing a great cup of coffee.
– Explore Highland Square: Highland Square has a funky, eclectic vibe. We’ll visit Revival for some vintage clothing shopping, check out Square Records for vinyl, and stop by the Mustard Seed Market for a unique grocery experience.
Afternoon:
– Lunch at The Square Scullery: A food truck-turned-brick-and-mortar spot that offers innovative takes on comfort food. Their creative menu is always changing, which makes it exciting every time.
– Akron Zoo: A smaller zoo but packed with interesting exhibits. It’s an enjoyable, low-key way to spend a relaxed afternoon.
Evening:
– Dinner at Bricco: Bricco is a sleek, contemporary restaurant downtown with a broad menu of American and Italian dishes. The cocktails and stylish atmosphere make it a great choice for dinner.
– Drinks at Baxter’s Speakeasy: Another underground spot for a quiet nightcap. Baxter’s offers a cool, retro vibe with great cocktails.

Day 5: A Day in Nearby Cleveland

Akron’s close enough to Cleveland that a day trip is a must.
Morning:
– Breakfast at West Side Market: This iconic market in Cleveland offers endless options for breakfast. We’ll grab a coffee and sample some pastries as we stroll through the bustling stalls.
Afternoon:
– Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art: One of the best in the country, this museum has an extraordinary collection ranging from ancient to contemporary art.
– Lunch at Mabel’s BBQ: Chef Michael Symon’s Cleveland BBQ joint offers a Midwest take on classic barbecue, perfect for an indulgent lunch.
– Explore The Flats or Edgewater Park: Depending on the mood, we’ll either walk along the water and grab drinks at The Flats or relax at Edgewater Park for some lakeside views.
Evening:
– Dinner at Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar: For an unforgettable dining experience, we’ll head to Marble Room in downtown Cleveland. The space, housed in an old bank, is as impressive as the food.
– Drinks in the Warehouse District: Finish off with drinks at one of Cleveland’s lively downtown bars.

Day 6: Akron’s Creative Scene

Morning:
– Breakfast at Sweet Mary’s Bakery: The best place for fresh-baked goods and coffee. Their croissants and cinnamon rolls are addictive.
– Visit Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens: This historic estate, with its mansion and meticulously maintained gardens, offers a glimpse into Akron’s industrial past and is a photographer’s dream.
Afternoon:
– Lunch at Lock 15 Brewing Co.: Akron’s growing brewery scene is best sampled here. We’ll grab lunch and sample some craft brews before taking a short stroll by the river.
– Head to Northside Marketplace: A unique local retail space with pop-up shops featuring Akron’s makers and entrepreneurs. It’s a fun way to support local businesses and find something one-of-a-kind.
Evening:
– Dinner at El Patron Tequilería & Cuisine: Modern Mexican cuisine, with a wide selection of tequilas and cocktails. The vibe is energetic and perfect for kicking off the night.
– Drinks at Mr. Zub’s Deli & Bar: Known for its late-night scene, quirky decor, and massive sandwiches named after movies, Mr. Zub’s is a favorite spot for winding down a day.

Day 7: Wrapping Up with Nature and Comfort

Morning:
– Breakfast at Artisan Coffee: A small but cozy spot with excellent coffee and pastries.
– Visit F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm: Spend the last morning soaking up Akron’s natural beauty. The gardens and hiking trails here offer a peaceful escape from the city.
Afternoon:
– Lunch at Swensons Drive-In: Akron’s classic burger joint is the perfect final meal. We’ll order from our car, get their iconic Galley Boy burger, and maybe a peanut butter milkshake for the ultimate nostalgic Akron experience.
Evening:
– Farewell Drinks at The Merchant Tavern: For the final night, we’ll keep it low-key and head back to one of my favorite local haunts. We’ll grab a drink, reminisce about the week, and toast to good times in Akron.
This itinerary blends Akron’s nature, art, food, and local quirks, ensuring my best friend would leave with a rich, well-rounded experience of what the area has to offer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As I reflect on my 35-year journey in photography, I am filled with immense gratitude for the incredible individuals who have walked alongside me. Success in any career is never a solitary achievement, and my story is no exception. It has been shaped and nurtured by the support, encouragement, and collaboration of so many talented and generous people.

To my professors Greg Moore & Dale Dengerd, who first opened my eyes to the possibilities of photography, thank you for giving me the foundation and inspiration to pursue this craft. Your belief in my potential set me on a path that I might not have had the courage to walk alone.

To my employers, who gave me opportunities, challenges, and the freedom to explore my voice as a photographer, your trust allowed me to grow not just as a professional but as an artist.

To the photographers I have had the privilege of working with, including Dale Dengerd, David Samiec, and Charlie Hudson, I owe a great deal. Your technical brilliance, creative minds, and friendship pushed me to elevate my own work and never stop learning. Each of you, in your own way, has profoundly impacted my approach to photography and life.

Atticus Pamer, Jenn Rostauscher, Emily Josephine, and Kelleye Bugara—thank you for your collaboration and professionalism. Whether we were in the studio, on location, or managing the controlled chaos of a major project, your dedication and expertise were key to turning visions into reality. You have been more than just collaborators; you’ve been essential to my journey, and I treasure the moments we’ve shared creating something bigger than ourselves.

To the models, stylists, assistants, and producers who have worked with me over the years, your collective talent, patience, and willingness to push boundaries have been indispensable. Together, we’ve brought ideas to life, captured moments of beauty, and, in many cases, pushed the envelope of what photography can communicate.

This dedication is to all of you, for your mentorship, guidance, creativity, and for believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. My career is a reflection of not just my vision but the countless hands that helped shape it. Thank you, deeply and sincerely.

Website: http://www.bradleyhart.com/figurative

Instagram: @multigraffica

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hartphotographic/

Image Credits
Isla Delucca, Emily Josephine, Paisley, Most Ghost