Editorial Photographer + Director/DP
📍MINNESOTA + MIDWEST U.S.
ABOUT ME
I’m Ben Brewer — a Minneapolis-based Photographer and Director/DP focused on authentic, engaging, story-driven photography and video. My work blends cinematic style with journalistic instinct for brands and agencies that value visuals with purpose.
As a Photographer and Director/DP, I’ve built my career around crafting visuals that connect on a deeply human level — bringing authenticity and nuance to every story I tell. I’ve had the privilege of creating stories for some of the world’s most recognized brands and agencies, as well as editorial giants like The New York Times, Reuters, Bloomberg and more. I create work that reflects real people and true experiences, driven by a commitment to bold visual storytelling.
My path to photography might seem unconventional. With a degree in Biochemistry and Neuroscience, I learned early to approach every project with both curiosity and precision — qualities that became the foundation of my work. My creative approach combines careful observation and responsiveness of photojournalism with the strategic and structured thinking required for brand and agency work.
From brand documentaries to commercial campaigns and in-depth editorial features, my work consistently centers on one goal: to craft visuals that are genuine and artfully refined. Put simply, I capture real moments and peak expressions — whether it’s a powerful portrait, a brand story with authenticity at its core, or a documentary piece that challenges perspectives. Additionally, as an FAA Part 107 certified drone pilot, I bring a unique aerial perspective to storytelling projects for my clients.
Currently based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, I’m available for freelance and contract work worldwide. When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll often find me exploring the Midwest, pursuing new creative ideas and personal projects, or simply enjoying the quieter moments of life in nature or on one of Minnesota’s 10,000 Lakes.
Reach out if you’re ready for visuals that stand out, connect deeply, and capture not just what’s seen but what’s felt.
My CLIENTS
Allina Health
American Legion
Avoq
Associated Press
Bloomberg News
Children’s Miracle Network
Chronicle of Higher Education
CNBC
Colgate-Palmolive
Der Spiegel
FanDuel
Getty Sports
Gillette Children’s
Goodwill Easter Seals
Grinnell College
Guthrie Theater
Habitat for Humanity International
Human Society of the United States
Madison Chamber of Commerce
National Public Radio
National Credit Union Foundation
NBC News
NCAA (National Collegiate Athletics Association)
NY Daily News
The New York Times
Piper Sandler
Royal Bank of Canada
Reuters
Slate Magazine
Star Tribune
Scorpion
Target
University of Minnesota
University of Wisconsin
University of Michigan
Washington Post
WeWork
Wisconsin State Journal
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Yes — I work in both still photography and motion, and I often contribute both to a single project. But in most cases, I don’t shoot them simultaneously. While I can pivot between the two efficiently, each requires a different mindset, setup, and technical approach. I’m always thinking strategically about when to prioritize one over the other so that the final result — whether stills, video, or both — is intentional and high-quality.
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I’ve worked with a wide range of clients — from national editorial outlets and mission-driven nonprofits to healthcare systems and regional brands. My work spans industries, but the throughline is always the same: clear storytelling, emotional intelligence, and bold visuals.
While I’ve built a strong foundation in editorial and documentary-style work, I’m increasingly partnering with creative agencies, brand teams, and organizations looking to elevate their visual content. If you’re after visuals that connect — not just perform — that’s where I bring the most value.
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Absolutely — but it depends on what the project needs. For some clients, I offer early-stage input on story structure, visuals, or interview design. For others, I’m stepping into a creative vision that’s already been built, and bringing it to life on camera. I’m comfortable doing both — and especially effective when there’s space for collaboration between creative and execution.
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I’m based in Minneapolis and work throughout the Midwest — but travel is a core part of my practice. I take on assignments across the U.S. and internationally, scaling each production to fit the creative scope and team structure.
Whether I’m hired by an agency to direct or shoot within an existing concept, or brought on by a brand or editorial outlet to lead the visual storytelling, I’m equipped to collaborate across a wide range of environments — from lean doc-style shoots to full-scale campaigns.
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My work blends a journalistic instinct — grounded in real human moments — with cinematic technique and structure. I’m drawn to visuals that connect emotionally, but I build them with intention: using light, space, timing, and movement to deepen the story.
Whether I’m working within a creative brief or helping shape the visual direction from the ground up, I aim to create imagery that’s as strategic as it is striking.