Product Photography with the SL-System

07/24/2025
Photographer from behind in a photo studio photographing a man

Two Creative Voices:
Kristian Dowling & Alex Drewniak

Join us as we follow Kristian Dowling and Alex Drewniak – two of Australia’s most exciting young photographers – as they provide a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process and approach to photography.

Working in the creative industry as a photographer is both exciting and challenging. You’re constantly looking for new ways to see and capture the world. It’s about more than just knowing how to use a camera. It’s about storytelling, emotion, and understanding the power of visual language.

The SL3-S is available in a number of kits tailored to your own shooting style.

Photographer Alex Drewniak with a Man model

Alex Drewniak

In her approach to photography, Alex emphasises, “Understand the technical side of things – the lighting – but then get on set, relax, have some fun and just play into your creativity.” 

Alex is using the SL3-S with the Summicron-SL 50 f/2 ASPH. and the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASPH.

Alex on the Creative Process

Each project presents a new opportunity to explore different styles, techniques, and perspectives. Creativity is at the core of everything, guiding decisions around lighting, composition, color, and mood. It’s what transforms a simple image into something memorable and meaningful.
On shoot, there's an energy – an openness to experimentation and a desire to be original. At the same time, you’re constantly building your reputation and honing your own personal style. Learning to balance this artistic expression with the needs and expectations of the client is key. Bringing a client’s vision to life is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the job. Every client has a unique story. Every shoot is an opportunity to interpret that vision visually. This process often involves detailed conversations, mood boards, location scouting, and planning - all of which are rooted in collaboration. The objective is to merge the client’s needs with your creative insight, producing something that not only meets expectations but exceeds them.

Kristian Dowling

Kristian Dowling

“Experience is everything,” explains Kristian, “and having the perspective of looking at your work as well, and going through your images and not just looking through all the good ones but looking at the ones that didn’t quite work out and asking yourself ‘what went wrong?’”

Kristian is shooting with the SL3-S and three lenses on this shoot: the Summicron-SL 35 f/2 ASPH., the new Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70 ASPH. f/2.8 and the Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200 f/2.8 ASPH.

Developing a Voice: Kristian’s Perspective

Communication is crucial: listening carefully, asking the right questions, and sharing creative ideas that elevate the initial concept. It’s not just about taking a good photo; it’s about striking a balance to achieve an experience that feels true to both the client’s goals and your own creative standards.
As a younger professional, there’s often an assumption that you’ll bring fresh perspectives – especially when it comes to aesthetics, social content, or trending shooting techniques. That expectation can be motivating. It pushes you to stay ahead of the mainstream and refine your own signature style. But it also means proving yourself in every interaction: showing that you’re not just creative but reliable, organized, and capable of executing a commercial project from concept to final delivery.

Ultimately, being a young creative in photography is about building trust through your portfolio, your process, and your ability to connect with people. Each project adds to your story and expands your network, helping you grow both as an artist and as a businessperson. Whether you're shooting portraits, products, events, or editorials, the most meaningful work tends to come from genuine collaboration and shared excitement about turning ideas into compelling images.