About Carl

I am a professional photographer and graphic designer in San Mateo, California. I was trained at Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara from which I graduated with a B.A. in Professional Photography in 2006. My studies focused primarily on commercial photography and portraiture.

In 2006, I moved to Clement St. in San Francisco and opened a studio where I excelled in non-comercial and commercial photography. I started by shooting for magazines such as 7X7 and 944 and fashion photography for Look Model Agency and other fashion agencies in the City. I also specialized in advertising and marketing for small and large companies like Paolo Shoes, Duke Et Duchess, Zirab Restaurant, Palomino Restaurant, Tyco Electronics, Wi-Gear, City of San Francisco, St. Vincent DePaul Society, Vanguard Realty and many more. My activities in Graphic Design and Photography led me to open a studio in San Mateo where I could better serve my clients on the Peninsula and Silicon Valley while still maintaining ties to the City. Shortly after opening, I was asked to participate in a major promotional campaign for Downtown San Mateo. I took the photographs and performed graphic design for what became the biggest marketing project the mid-Peninsula has ever seen: 22 billboards, 41 buses, 60 bus stops, 120 banners plus multi-marketing in newspapers, magazines, flyers, mailers, and web site banners and blasts. I then was asked to join the Downtown San Mateo Association Events Board to continue the effort of marketing Downtown San Mateo as a center of activity where people can come and have a wonderful time. I have established excellent relationships with many of the local schools including Notre Dame Belmont and Mercy Burlingame where I photograph and video special events. Another major part of my practice is “in studio” and “on location” portrait photography of individuals and groups for business, social and family occasions.

I truly enjoy the creativity of my craft. Through ownership of my own photography business in Downtown San Mateo, I have found joy in giving back to the community. I accomplish this by providing my services to worthwhile projects, helping students and interns with counseling in pursuit of their goals and working with several non profit organizations. Through Photography SF and Carl Ward Photography, I provide workshops that teach adults and young adults photography fundamentals up to advanced photography methods. I also work with schools around the Bay Area to offer internship opportunities to students on the college level. I have received great reviews for my teaching abilities that are equal to the passion that I have for the art and business side of photography. I have been entrusted by top magazines and major organizations to deliver photographs and graphic design of the highest quality for a multitude of projects.

I look forward to having the opportunity to devote my talents, education and passion to your next assignment in portrait photography – be it in my fully equipped studio or on location. A well planned, professionally produced photo is a keepsake forever.

Call me at: (650) 303-6554