IN THE STUDIO with George Barberis
It is with real pleasure that I showcase my long time friend and professional collaborator George Barberis on the journal today. George is the photographer behind all of Standard Affair’s gorgeous lifestyle imagery. Wide ranging in ability, George has a particular talent for rich, moody, and romantically leaning light reminiscent of Dutch Masters still life paintings.
Over the years he and I have worked together on numerous photo shoots for nationally recognized companies, George shooting and me styling. To now also get to work with such a trusted, visionary friend to bring my collection to life through inspiring imagery is so meaningful to me, a relationship I am so grateful for.
George also loves to garden and cook- further things we share in common! For a peek into this native New Yorker’s creative journey, his thoughts on beauty (and his new Standard Affair dishes), and what he cooks for a dinner party (including wine pairing) read on...
-Kira
You can find George at www.georgebarberis.com and on instagram.
How do you describe what you do?
I've been working as a photographer for the last 20 years, give or take, for businesses and independent designers. I’m hired to present and interpret their work the best I can. I always try to arrive with fresh eyes and present their work through my own unique lens, so to speak, whether with photographs or short-form video.
Did you always want to be a professional creative?
No, actually, not at all. In my childhood I had ambitions to be either a surgeon or professional soccer player! A far cry from where I landed. I had no idea that creative jobs existed. I came from a Greek immigrant family that always had to hustle to survive. My parents were not supportive when I started studying music and classical guitar, my first creative endeavor.
What are your favorite kinds of jobs?
My favorite jobs are the ones where I’m allowed creative control. I also love it when there’s lots of play and interaction with the client and the stylist. Those jobs really light me up!
What has been inspiring you lately?
Lately I've been inspired by sculptural work. In Paris, I had the pleasure of seeing both Rodin and Picasso sculptures in person. I'm always inspired by my own community of artists, of course, who are always playing and creating. I'm also inspired by all the brave people fighting against systems of injustice in our world.
How do you reconnect to your creativity?
Slowing down and traveling are the keys to reconnection for me. Slowing down gives me the space my mind needs to breathe. Less anxiety and stress while in new environments tend to allow my imagination to blossom.
Do you believe that beauty is important?
I am certainly drawn to and take delight in things of beauty. But my definition of the word is constantly in flux, and I think it’s vital to understand how cultural perspective and biases inform an individual’s perspective.
What’s a typical day for you?
When working from home, it’s coffee, cooking up a storm, and listening to radio. Editing, self promotion, and staying in contact with clients is omnipresent. When I'm on set or at a location shoot, well I'm busy working!
What hobbies do you enjoy outside of your work?
I have so many! Currently building and sculpting with clay. Mostly human figures. I'm cultivating an edible and decorative garden always. Argentine tango is a new one that is truly bringing me new life. Lastly, volunteering in my community!
How do you put together your menus for dinner parties or hosting?
With spontaneity. I will jog my memory for dishes I've successfully executed in the past, and pepper in an aspirational side dish similar to something I've recently been served or seen online. The farmers market, of course, will often inspire a dish.
What’s your favorite thing to serve at a dinner party?
The humble chicken. The freshest salad. The crustiest baguette. Probably a Sancerre.
Any tips for setting the table?
Let it tell your story. I love having a candle on the table, one with a color representative of the season. Flowers in your favorite vase. With clippings from the garden. Always a cellar of flaky sea salt, because your guests deserve to customize their experience.
How does it feel to have Standard Affair pieces in your home?
It's been such a pleasure serving on my new dishware. The finish is perfect for allowing food to really stand out. The size of the large pasta bowl allows me to present an entire meal perfectly. They are also surprisingly sturdy and easy to clean, considering their delicate and refined appearance.
Find George at www.georgebarberis.com and on instagram.
