Capturing the Essence of Luxury and Legacy
Photographing vintage luxury cars is about more than just taking pictures—it’s about telling stories. Each curve, detail, and finish holds history, artistry, and craftsmanship that call for a skillful eye to showcase their character. Nowhere is this more evident than in Scottsdale, a hub for high-end car collectors and enthusiasts.
During a recent photo session, I had the opportunity to work with Janet Cussler, renowned Scottsdale car collector and widow of bestselling author Clive Cussler. Her near-museum-level collection is a testament to automotive history, community, and personal passion. From the 1902 Curved Dash Oldsmobile to a stunning 1959 Cadillac Eldorado, every detail carried stories that could fill volumes. My task as a Scottsdale luxury brand photographer? To encapsulate those stories through stunning visuals while honoring the cars’ historical and artistic significance.
Scottsdale Luxury Photography and Storytelling
Scottsdale has a natural affinity for luxury, from upscale resorts to Barrett-Jackson auctions featuring multimillion-dollar vehicles. But when it comes to luxury car photography, the stakes are higher than ever.
Photographing a classic car is not just about lens expertise but about understanding its place in history. Janet Cussler’s collection, for example, doesn’t just feature high-end vehicles—it represents decades of innovation and elegance. Janet describes her cars as “rolling pieces of art” that reflect moments in societal progress, from the industrial revolution to changes in women’s rights. And she doesn’t just preserve them; she drives them, using cars like her 1917 Ahrens-Fox fire engine to bring joy at charity events.
The challenge for the photographer is to capture that energy—those snapshots of history—in a way that resonates with collectors, car lovers, and history buffs alike.
Key Tips for Luxury Car Photography
1. Lighting is Everything
Luxury cars are all about curves, textures, and eye-catching finishes. The right lighting elevates these elements. Soft natural light, used around sunrise or sunset, accentuates highlights and reduces harsh reflections on sleek surfaces. For interiors, subtle directional lights ensure every stitch in the leather or sleek dashboard is showcased. Shadows, too, are just as important, adding depth and movement to the composition.
2. Highlight the Details
Each detail, from gleaming hood ornaments to vintage upholstery, tells a story. Janet’s collection, for example, features handwoven seating in a 1907 Mitchell Model E Runabout, contrasting dramatically with the polished chrome engine of her 1916 Pierce Arrow. Close-ups of these features make the cars feel alive, connecting the viewers to their craftsmanship.
3. Use Composition to Capture the Story
It’s not just about the cars—it’s about their legacy. Take Janet at the wheel of the 1902 Curved Dash Oldsmobile, for instance. This wasn’t merely a car—it was a symbol of a turning point in human ingenuity, being one of the first mass-produced automobiles. Using cinematic framing techniques, I placed her in the driver’s seat and included the surrounding background to emphasize the juxtaposition of the classic car beside modern Scottsdale elegance.
4. Pair People with Vehicles for Personality
When photographing luxurious vehicles, adding context with the owner creates a deeper connection. I’ve always believed you can’t separate the soul of the collector from their collection. Janet’s passion for her cars made her the living voice of her collection. By capturing her in candid moments—like affectionately describing the first car Clive gifted her—a sense of intimacy and emotion emerged that added dimension to the images.
Why Scottsdale Car Collectors Love Brand Photography
Collectors can see the value of professional Scottsdale brand photography for reasons far beyond aesthetics. Whether it’s showcasing their collection to car clubs, presenting visuals for Barrett-Jackson auctions, or displaying these works of art for personal enjoyment, the right images are crucial. Here’s why top collectors and brands rely on luxury photography to highlight their high-end vehicles:
1. Preserving History
With so much history embedded in vintage vehicles, high-resolution, detail-rich photography becomes a time capsule, preserving the essence of each car for future generations.
2. Telling Unique Stories
Luxury cars are bought as much for their background and exclusivity as their beauty. Visual storytelling in photography ties these elements together, enhancing appeal for buyers and collectors alike.
3. Creating Points of Connection
For many, Janet’s cars are more than objects—they’re a bridge to another era. Whether thrilling audiences at charity events or personalizing the car’s backstory, luxury photography conveys that connection in a way that words alone cannot.
A Subject With Heart and Community
What impressed me most about Janet and her collection was her commitment to sharing these “rolling masterpieces” with the community. Beyond Barrett-Jackson or closed museum spaces, she brings joy to local events like charity fundraisers, ensuring her collection plays a role in Scottsdale’s modern cultural fabric.
Reflecting this philosophy in photography isn’t easy—it requires a balance of technical prowess, artistic sensibility, and the ability to connect to the subject emotionally. My favorite portrait of Janet is simple yet powerful—her inside one of her most significant cars, looking ahead. The scene radiates pride, belonging, and a sense of continuity that every Scottsdale car collector shares.
Bringing an Artistic Touch to Automotive Photography
“Photographing luxury cars is all about creating an inspiring visual of the right lighting, curves, and shapes of each vehicle. A visual storytelling of the history and stories that I love to capture,” explains Loralei Lazurek, leading Scottsdale luxury brand photographer and the artist behind Janet’s collection shoot. Loralei’s approach is meticulous yet creative, balancing history and artistry to deliver stunning visual narratives that engage and inspire.
Why Choose a Professional Brand Photographer?
Beyond just the technical ability to shoot high-end cars, a professional brand photographer understands the narratives, history, and emotions that vehicles carry. Loralei brings an insider perspective—having worked with numerous collectors in Scottsdale and Phoenix—along with unmatched expertise in creating visual pieces that grab attention online, at auctions, and beyond.
Elevate Your Collection Today
Scottsdale’s vibrant culture around luxury car collecting demands world-class photography that blends creativity and skill. Whether you’re a collector, brand, or digital marketer, the right photographer can elevate your collection’s value through powerful visuals tailored to the discerning eye of high-end audiences.
Want to preserve your collection’s legacy or highlight your car’s intricate details? Contact Loralei Lazurek today to schedule a session and capture the soul of your story through luxury car photography.
