Clay Blackmore - Batting 1.000

This Conversation with Jed Taufer

Clay Blackmore was blessed to have worked with a photographic legend in Monte Zucker and one of the things he learned was how to bat 1.000 with his clients. Clay is an enthusiastic leader in the photographic industry. Not only is he revered for his development of innovative lighting and portrait techniques, but he is highly sought after as an instructor and considered one of the most passionate photographers working in the country today.

Clay meticulously developed his photographic, teaching, and business skills during his 25-year association with Monte Zucker, first as an assistant, then as a co-educator and business partner. His clientele has included celebrities such as Tiger Woods, Forest Whitaker, Jenna Elfman, Maria Sharapova, and many of Washington D.C.’s top families.

Clay is a champion of innovation and growth in the photography industry, pushing the boundaries of storytelling with the latest innovations in technology. In addition to his mastery of lighting and classic portraiture, Clay was among the first to test and evaluate new products for photography and HD-DSLR cinematography.

As a Distinguished Canon Print Master, Clay has been part of the Canon team for over 20 years. In 2018, he received the Tom McDonald Award from the Professional Photographers of America for supporting photographic education. He is also part of the Westcott Pro Team, a member of the elite Cameracraftsmen of America. His Rockville, Maryland, studio supports a team of passionate photographers and filmmakers working with the most cutting-edge technologies in the field.

In addition, Clay is active in ministry and his local community, volunteering his time to help others through photography. He believes that the best way to teach is by example. “Confidence comes from success, and success comes from practice,” he says.