Photographing for a brand like Mercedes Benz sounded completely unrealistic to me. I was not a professional photographer, I did not have a big network and I definitely did not feel like someone who would normally get a chance like that.

But sometimes things happen in a much more simple way.

I joined an event called Creator Meets, which was organized together with EyeEm, Canon and Mercedes Benz. For one day, we got a car, a Canon camera and the chance to take photos with it. There were two photographers with the car, so it felt more like a photo walk. It was a fun day, driving around, trying things and hoping to get a few nice photos. Of course I was still stressed none the less.

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There was not a lot of pressure. At the end of the day we had to deliver at least one photo. And of course, no speeding ticket.

Looking back, I am still really grateful for that experience. At the time I was very proud of it and probably talked about it a bit too much. But it also showed me that these things are not always as far away as they seem.

If you are interested in something like this, I think it is worth keeping an eye out for creator events, brand photo walks or programs like MBsocialcar (which i think is discontinued?). Even if it feels too big at first, just try to apply or join when you get the chance.

It did not turn me into a car photographer. But it gave me a cool memory, a few photos I still like, and a little bit more confidence to try things that feel too big at first.

Photographing for Mercedes Benz (and other brands) is not restricted to some elite circle of professionals. Big Corporates often help newcomers to gain experience in professional photography.

Sony A7 and Canon 50mm f1.4 - Photographing for Mercedes Benz