2017 GANYC Apple Awards Nominee: Mike McLaughlin

Each year, GANYC proudly honors organizations and individuals that encourage and promote New York City tourism, culture and preservation, while supporting the work and contributions of professional New York City tour guides. The 2017 GANYC Apple Awards is coming up, on Monday, March 6, 2017. This year there are 44 nominees. Below, is an interview with one of them.

Nomination: Mike McLaughlin, Manhattan Bridge, Curbed Photo Pool, Outstanding Achievement in New York City Photography (singular image, published October 1, 2015 - September 30, 2016)

Like others in the industry, Mike McLaughlin, didn't start out as a professional photographer. With a day job as a research analyst, he taught himself photography skills that have since developed into his signature “spare and clean style.” Mike has a love affair with the East End of Long Island, but his subjects also include much of NYC and are viewable on his website.

What is the main source of inspiration for your photography?

I’m inspired by creating images that bring a sense of peace and orderliness to New York City and other places. My work is most influenced by photographers like William Eggleston who were able to find poignance in everyday, even mundane scenes.

Please describe, briefly, what your process is like for creating your work?

When I find a subject that interests me I will visit that location a number of times under different light and weather conditions until I capture what I feel is its essence.

What’s been a highlight of your work or a particular event or happenstance that has kept you motivated to continue doing it?

The excitement I feel when I’m able to capture with the camera exactly what was in my mind’s eye is enough to keep me motivated. Beyond that, the recognition that I’ve received for my work and the camaraderie of the photographic community keep me driven.

For our professional GANYC tour guide members, what things about your work might we share with the thousands of visitors to NYC we meet every year?

Perhaps some of my architectural tableaus can help people see a more graceful side of the city.

Favorite tour you've taken in NYC, or if you haven't taken a tour, where in NYC would you next like to have a tour (preferably led by one of our GANYC members)?

I’m interested in architectural walking tours, particularly ones that include some of our significant buildings from the modern era.

What is your favorite place in NYC and why?

My favorite place to be in New York is the new Hudson River Park because of its beauty and the views. Lately, my favorite places to shoot have been the World Trade Center and Hudson Yards.

If you could be any one of the five NYC boroughs or a particular store/restaurant in NYC, what would you be and why?

I would be Brooklyn because it has my favorite views of Manhattan.

Anything else you'd like to share?

I enjoy living in a place where people from around the world want to come and visit. I’m glad there’s an organization like GANYC, where visitors can find expert help in getting to know us better!