Through the Lens: How Robert Grubbs Turned Passion into a Global Career
- Staff Writer
- Aug 26
- 3 min read
1. Tell us about your journey. How did you get started?
When I was a kid, I was always drawn to photography. I didn’t fully understand why at the time. It wasn’t until my freshman year of college that I began to take photography seriously. Back then, I was using my grandfather’s old Nikon film camera, learning the basics the hard way through trial, error, and patience.
Years later, I received a digital camera as a gift, and something clicked. I realized I didn’t want photography to be just a hobby it needed to be more. Almost overnight, I launched a website, created social media accounts, and Grubbs Photography was born. I knew I had to find my niche, so I turned to one of my biggest passions: cars. I started attending every Cars & Coffee event I could find, building my portfolio one shoot at a time. Before long, I landed my first paid gig with a custom car shop.
That momentum carried me into a position with O’Gara, one of the largest luxury automotive dealer groups in the world, where I spent nearly a decade as their Chief Photographer and eventually Creative Director. Last year, I took a leap of faith and went independent. I’m now a full-time freelance photographer, working with high-end brands and traveling the world doing what I love.
2. What’s it like working with celebrities and influencers?
It’s a unique part of the job, and one I never take for granted. I've been fortunate to work with a number of high-profile clients, many of whom I met during my time at O'Gara. It’s always fascinating to hear their backstories and see that, at the core, many of them share the same passion for cars and design that I do. There's a mutual respect that tends to form when you're collaborating to bring a shared vision to life.
3. What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
There have been a lot of meaningful moments, but working with Bentley North America this year has definitely been a standout. Seeing my work used across national campaigns and on display at major automotive events has been incredibly fulfilling. As a photographer, you spend a lot of time chasing the “perfect shot,” so when your work is elevated to a platform like that, it’s humbling. It reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.
4. How do you manage the hustle and stay grounded?
It’s definitely a grind, but I’ve been blessed with an amazing support system, especially my wife. She’s been my anchor throughout this journey, supporting me whether I’m racing to catch a flight or editing late into the night. Her belief in what I do gives me the freedom to pursue this career fully, and that’s something I’ll never take for granted.
Staying grounded comes from remembering where I started and the people who’ve supported me along the way. I still get excited before a big shoot, and I try to bring that same energy and curiosity to every project, no matter how high-profile it is.
5. What’s the best part of working behind the scenes and using your talent to bring visions to life?
Without a doubt, it's the client’s reaction. I can be my own worst critic I rarely look at a finished project and feel like it's perfect. But when a client sees the final images and their face lights up, that moment is priceless. It’s rewarding to know that something I created has helped someone tell their story, launch a campaign, or capture a dream car in a way that feels personal.
