Max Benedict first discovered his love for art during a drawing class at an alternative school that boasted a hippie Seattle spirit. When he’d go skiing with his father, he’d enjoy the journey just as much as the destination. They’d listen to Jimi Hendrix and Tower of Power CDs while he’d practice his sketches in the back seat. In high school, he took a film photography class and found his true creative calling.
Benedict went on to specialize in portraits, products, music, and lifestyle photography. In each photo he strives to capture his subjects immersed in their surroundings. Although photos are still images, he somehow “instills a sense of motion in his work,” as his goal is to convey a unique perspective.
One can specialize in photography yet still be a multifaceted creative, he says. Years after taking the drawing and film photography classes of his youth, he has evolved into visual, interactive, web, and UX design. His aesthetic is showcased on his online portfolio, MaxBenedict.Photo. 
When it comes to working with clients, he enjoys working with companies and individuals dedicated to building a distinct visual identity. No matter the assignment, Benedict strives to create memorable content-driven experiences across all digital realms, from web, to social and print formats. But choosing the creative path also requires some strategic business decisions. From drawing inspiration to setting pricing structures, Benedict shares more about navigating his career as an independent creative.
What is your mission as a photographer and creative professional?
My mission is to connect with people through my work, explore interesting parts of the world, and document love and beauty as I see it. I'm inspired by creators, musicians, lovers... anyone who lives authentically and stands behind what they do. Those are the kind of people I want to photograph and connect with, and my dream is to do that on a wider scale so that I can travel the world and be fulfilled in my career.
What is the biggest challenge you face as an online entrepreneur?
Finding a consistent and sustainable pricing structure is a constant struggle. I do a lot of different kinds of photography and my rates are always changing depending on the project. I want to keep my prices accessible to creatives who are on a budget, but I also don't want to undersell myself. There have been times in the past where I've undercharged larger clients simply because there's not a lot of information out there on industry standard pricing for photography work. So answering the "what are your rates" question is always hard for me.
From the web design to the photos you display, your business website is beautiful. What’s a smart move for branding yourself online?
The .photo domain is just one example. I just wanted something a little different! It has a nice ring to it and I think it makes me stand out a bit.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your career?
I get a real rush when I send out photos from more personal portrait sessions and receive an overwhelmingly positive or emotional response. It feels amazing when I hit the mark and capture others in the way they want to be seen. When visions align and I can connect with people on that level it's truly special and makes the hard parts of being a freelancer worth it.