Drew Bly

Director of Photography @ Drew Bly Photography

About

Los Angeles–based creative professional working across photography, acting, and directing, with a background in editorial production and visual storytelling. I bring 17+ years of experience in creative production and 12 years as a U.S. Army officer, where I led teams in high-pressure, real-world environments. My work is character-driven and cinematic, grounded in discipline, collaboration, and execution. I’ve led and contributed to editorial campaigns, portrait work, and on-set creative direction, with a growing focus on narrative film and performance. I’m interested in projects that value clarity, craft, and storytelling with substance. Open to collaborations, creative partnerships, and conversations that lead to real work.

Country

United States

City

Los Angeles

Industry

Photography

Skill

Narrative Development/Storytelling, Production Leadership, Project Execution/Production Management, Visual Storytelling, Project Planning, Creative Director, Art Direction, Studio Photography, Creative Strategy, Visual Arts, Public Affairs, Social Media, Marketing Strategy, Planning, Operations Management, Fashion Photography, Editorial Photography, Director of Photography, Adobe Lightroom, Teamwork

Experience

Director of Photography

Drew Bly Photography

2009-1 - Present · 17 yrs 9 mos

Los Angeles, California, United States

Directed editorial and branded shoots from concept through delivery. Produced moodboards, shot lists, and lighting plans for campaign storytelling. Managed talent, styling, and crew coordination for on-set productions. Delivered visual content for print, digital, and social platforms, including IG and Reels. Built and maintained client relationships, pitching creative concepts for new projects.

Visual Artist / Digital Media Professional

LLWF (Live Life Without Fear)

2011-1 - Present · 15 yrs 9 mos

Los Angeles, California

Live Life Without Fear is a value-based lifestyle brand focused on visual storytelling. Our mission is to inspire other creatives, athletes, and public servants that no obstacle is too big to overcome.

Photographer

Clutch Pockets Wambli

2021-5 - Present · 5 yrs 5 mos

Los Angeles, California, United States

Portrait photographer and storyteller clutchpocketswambli.com

Freelance Photographer

ZUMA Press

2023-2 - Present · 3 yrs 8 mos

Los Angeles, California, United States

Event photographer, AP style captions. deliver edited photos the night of or by the following morning.

Photographer

Shutterstock

2023-4 - 2025-6 · 2 yrs 3 mos

Los Angeles, California, United States

Portrait, red carpet, and special events photographer. Writing descript photo captions, and submitting photos on the deadline.

Public Affairs Officer

United States Army Reserve

2012-1 - 2024-1 · 12 yrs 1 mo

Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, NY

Directed large-scale communication campaigns, aligning creative and strategic objectives. Managed logistics and scheduling for teams of 200+, ensuring seamless operations under pressure. Led multimedia production efforts (photo, video, editorial) for internal and external audiences. Developed press strategies, content plans, and event media coverage for high-visibility projects. Delivered leadership under tight deadlines, ensuring mission-critical success.

Teaching Assistant

Josephine Herrick Project

2019-9 - 2020-2 · 6 mos

New York, New York

Taught the basics of photography to 6th-grade students at New Design Middle School. Provided a sound voice, engaged with the students on their progress, and shared my experience as a photographer. Planned engaging activities for the students to participate and work together as a team.