Photo by Sean Sweeney
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Sean Sweeney, a veteran photographer who has roamed the borough with his camera for 30 years, was recently dubbed Staten Island's best photographer in our 2018 Best Of Artists and Entertainers poll.
The St. George resident said that while he enjoys the recognition, his passion is what gets him shooting.
Sweeney developed some of his first photos in high school, where Michael Falco was his inspiration.
Now, he spends his free time heading to the shoreline to catch early morning shots.
"This place is a wonderland and if you're in a spot that doesn't appeal to you just turn around and head in another direction," Sweeney said. "Our working harbor is always a great place to turn your focus."
From shore to shore, Sweeney has set his focus on scenic spots like Silver Lake Park, Clove Lakes Park and, of course, the Staten Island Ferry. His advice for upcoming photographers is simply this: Lead with passion and shoot for yourself.
"I'm only as good as my last shot and that's not accounted for in contests. Every day, I see local shooters posting images that floor me and make me envious of their talent," he said. "I believe Staten Island's best photographer hasn't picked up a camera yet. The best one might be reading this now and get inspired to start shooting."
Keep scrolling to see how Sweeney has used his lens to portray the borough through the years.
Staten Island Ferry shots
If you ride the Staten Island Ferry and don't take a photo, did you even ride the ferry?
2. Buono Beach in Rosebank
He captures this peaceful, scenic Rosebank spot just as the sun goes up.
3. William H. Pouch Camp in Sea View
Snagging a photo of fall foliage is an opportunity worth taking.
4. Hurricane Sandy aftermath
Sweeney posted this photo on the anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, writing, "I took this photo with my iPhone. The rest of the day and for weeks after we picked up each other and looked after the neighbors who were hit the hardest. 24 lost their lives that night. Raise a glass for them tonight. Raise one for you too for being there."
5. Freshkills Park
The sun goes down in Freshkills Park and Sweeney was right there to document it.
6. Lounging on the ferry
Seizing a relaxed moment makes the commute worthwhile.
7. Sunset on the South Shore
"Every photographer has those friends that ask, 'Did you see that sunrise?' followed by, 'Did you capture it?'" Sweeney said. "I've spent most of my life looking through one eye while the people who don't shoot enjoy [looking] through both."
8. Views from his bedroom window
Sweeney currently lives in St. George.
9. Spooky sights of Silver Lake Park
No sun? No problem.
10. Snowy days in Clove Lakes Park
Props to Sweeney -- and other photographers -- who brave the cold to get the perfect shot.
Staten Island Advance/ Joseph Ostapiuk
How to follow Sean Sweeney
Want more photography?
Sweeney has an active presence on Instagram and Facebook. His work is available for purchase at Society6.com.
Ad Choices