Mae Cornes
Photo Courtesy of Aisha Schliessler
In advertising, where every image needs to catch one’s attention, Evan Parsons has built a career that few saw coming. He has worked with Park Pictures, a respected production company, focusing on a niche style called “Over-The-Shoulder” photography. Photographers take these behind-the-scenes shots during commercial shoots and use them in print ads and billboards. While often overlooked, this role requires sharp instincts and a strong sense of timing – qualities Parsons has developed through experience and persistence.
From Unemployment to International Campaigns
Parsons did not follow a straight path into photography. He originally studied film in Vancouver, but his career took a different turn during a period without steady work. Although he had never given much thought to taking photographs, he decided to pick up an old camera and began taking casual photos and posting them on social media. Over time, his natural eye for detail stood out. His audience grew, and eventually, professional offers rolled in.
As the internet continues to change how talent is discovered, Parsons’ story reflects how creative work often finds its audience outside traditional circles. “Social media has been instrumental in my career. It allowed me to showcase my work and connect with people in the industry who appreciated my perspective,” the photojournalist shares.
Digital exposure has opened opportunities for Parsons on commercial sets, allowing him to capture still images during major ad productions. His consistent style has brought him on as the in-house photographer of Park Pictures.
Park Pictures has placed Parsons in high-profile campaigns – ads that run during the Super Bowl, the Olympics, and beyond. These shoots demand fast thinking and technical skill while needing to balance artistic intent with client needs.
Meeting Industry Shifts With a Steady Lens
The photography industry continues to shift in response to rapid tech developments. AI tools are changing how photos are edited, and smartphone cameras are closing the gap in casual photography. Still, brands continue to rely on professionals for content with weight and purpose. Brands rely on high-quality visuals for marketing, especially as e-commerce expands.
The U.S. photography market has reached about $14.6 billion in 2024. That figure is expected to grow as companies seek more focused, story-driven visuals. Parsons exemplifies this demand through his recent project for Bank of America, where he shot across multiple golf courses with a team of sports innovators while balancing logistical challenges and tight deadlines. “The hardest part is taking a photo that says more than ‘buy this.’ I want people to pause and wonder what else is happening in the frame.”
Campaigns for Chevrolet and Johnson & Johnson have also featured his work, showcasing his ability to navigate diverse large-scale productions while keeping his artistic voice intact.
What Comes Next for Evan Parsons
Parsons draws inspiration from photographers like William Eggleston and Alec Soth – artists known for turning ordinary moments into something worth studying. That influence is evident in his commercial work, which avoids clichés and aims for something quieter and more thoughtful. Rather than just capturing products, he captures a mood.
As photography tools continue to develop, professionals like Parsons are learning to produce new technology with strong visual storytelling. Augmented reality, AI-based editing, and faster digital workflows will continue to change how ads are made. Still, the demand for photographers who can communicate emotion through a single frame is unlikely to fade.
“The best photographs are the ones that leave you with questions,” shares Parsons, reflecting on where his career began. His ability to stay curious and make others feel the same remains his strongest tool. Park Pictures sees that value, too, describing his work as essential to its campaigns’ visual impact.
Whether shooting from behind the camera or sharing his process online, Parsons continues to show how far a clear point of view can take someone in a crowded industry.