Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Patrick Molnar is a passionate visual storyteller whose work embodies the authenticity of real-life moments. From portraits and lifestyle to sports and military, Patrick has worked around the globe with clients including Disney, the Marines, Allstate, USAA, Wells Fargo, and more.
Introduction by Donna Grossman, Casting Director, Donna Grossman Casting, Inc.
Patrick Molnar is an extraordinary documentarian and storyteller. With his camera, Patrick captures poignant moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. He allows the viewer to think about what preceded his photos and what followed after the camera’s shutter closed. He finds the true heroes in our complicated world. Patrick shows us who they are: heroes in the sky, on the ground, in uniform, holding a gun or carrying a dog on their shoulders, in street clothes on roller skates, seated at a table feeding a baby, or simply playing a guitar. Patrick finds the hero in everyone. As casting directors, it is a privilege to participate in any of Patrick’s projects. His trust in our casting process inspires us to help Patrick bring his visions and stories to life.
What inspired or motivated you in your career?
My aunt Betsy is a photographer. I saw what she did when I was a kid and thought it was the coolest thing ever.
What is your work philosophy?
Don’t get too comfortable.
Who is or was your greatest mentor?
My grandmother, Mary Ratcliffe. She was a badass.
What is it about photography that you are most passionate about?
It is recording a beat of time that will never happen the same way again, ever.
What is your favorite type of photograph to take?
The best shoots have the longest safety briefs.
Much of your work is portraiture or has people in it. What draws you to photographing others?
Human beings are unique, weird, and wonderful.
What is a recent photographic project of yours that you’re proud of?
I am currently working on a personal series here in Atlanta with some of the people who make the city what it is. It has been a lot of fun, and I have made some great friends.
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve overcome to reach your current position?
Being my own worst critic.
Who were some of your most significant past influences?
Albert Watson, Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, and Aretha Franklin.
Who among your contemporaries today do you most admire?
Albert Watson, although I definitely would not qualify as a contemporary.
What would be your dream assignment?
I have always wanted to photograph Chuck D from Public Enemy.
Who have been some of your favorite people or clients you have worked with?
I have been lucky enough to work with some of the most brilliant folks out there—creative directors, copywriters, producers, cinematographers, editors, etc. It is incredible just to be in the same room with them. There are way too many to name.
What are the most important ingredients you require from a client to work successfully?
Collaboration, trust, a little creative freedom… and a nice budget never hurt anyone.
You’ve done much work with the military, like the USMC and the Army. How did you get to take photos of them?
Over the years, we have shot recruiting campaigns for the USMC, the Army, and Homeland Security. It has been a blast and some of my favorite work. It is really hard to have a bad day when you are hanging out of a helicopter or blowing things up.
How do you receive commissions, and what steps do you take to fulfill them?
The ad agency working on the project usually contacts my agents. We then bring in the appropriate production company and start executing the concepts.
You’ve done a lot of work for companies like Toyota and Mastercard. What is it like shooting for advertising?
You get to go to work with the coolest people in the world, and you get to take pictures all day in great locations. It doesn’t suck.
Other than photography, you also do motion work. How did you start doing motion work, and how does your photography influence it?
Honestly… back in 2003, somebody said, “You should do film.” So I linked up with a great DP, and we went out and shot a few projects on 35mm. I see it the same as stills, just with more ways to tell a story.
What is your greatest professional achievement?
Working while raising two kids.
What is the greatest satisfaction you get from your work?
Wrapping up a long day at work and seeing clients, the agency, and crew happy.
What part of your work is the most demanding, considering your position?
Sprinting in body armor in the middle of August.
What professional goals do you still have for yourself?
To keep going, learning, and getting better.
What advice do you have for students starting out today?
Shoot, assist, listen, and soak up as much as possible. Shoot what you love, not what you think you should shoot.
What interests do you have outside of your work?
I spend time with my kids, my brilliant architect fiance, and her son, fishing, running, and trying to make better BBQ than my dad.
What do you value most?
My family and friends.
What would you change if you had to do it all over again?
Absolutely nothing.
Where do you seek inspiration?
Everywhere and anywhere I can.
How do you define success?
Being happy with who you are and what you do.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
Fishing and a nap.
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Patrick Molnar is a passionate visual storyteller whose work embodies the authenticity of real-life moments. With a no-nonsense approach and unwavering commitment, he consistently brings his A-game to every production. From portraits and lifestyle to sports and military, Pat has worked with clients all over the globe, including Disney, the Marines, Allstate, USAA, Wells Fargo, and more.
