Born in the Czech Republic, raised in England and when at home, now resides in Canada. When not at home, most frequently works in the Caribbean and Mexico shooting resorts.
Ever since I was a teenager living in London I have been fascinated by hotels. I used to hang out in the lobby at places like Claridge's and The Dorchester, people watching for fun. Who knew that one could actually make a living photographing such places? Not me, that's for sure.
Now, decades later, I still get a buzz checking in at reception. Promises to be fulfilled await. It's fair to say that I didn't choose to be a Resort Photographer, Resort Photography chose me and I'm grateful it did.
Of course it's work and frequently hard work, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Each assignment, whether large or small, is given the same care and attention and the body of work always comes first. Every location is unique and finding the core of what makes each place what it is becomes the first step in crafting the story.
Social media has opened a flood of snapshots and some of them are surprisingly good, but it takes more than "likes and followers" to convey the emotion that a resort property can induce. Therein lies the challenge and the reason I get up every morning.
Thanks for stopping by. We look forward to hearing from you.
E: andy@andrewptak.com
T: 416-524-7367
PS: I added a new portfolio page during a very long Covid lockdown to show what I had been up to. It's not my usual type of work but I live in the city and not a resort community - alas - so the subjects are done in a more traditional architectural photography style. No pools, beaches or palm trees, but enjoyable none the less. Hope you like them.