About Vincent

Vincent Knakal is a commercial and editorial photographer specializing in both studio and location environments.

Vincent’s roots have always run deep in the arts. He graduated from Otis/ Parson’s Art Institute in Los Angeles with a Bachelors in fine art. “My direction in those days always steered towards painting and illustration”, says Vincent. Most of his works (illustrations and paintings) were done from his photography. “As concepts for projects entered my mind I would document them through my photography for later use as reference”. It was only a matter of time before he had a stockpile of photographic images to work from, which continued to grow. “Eventually, I came to the realization that my passion for painting was not as great as that for photography. I began to put all of my energy into photography

Vincent began his photography career in the '90s, capturing stunning imagery during his travels throughout the world and exhibiting his work in galleries along the West Coast. When Vincent settled in San Diego over two decades ago, he shifted his focus toward commercial photography, delivering award-winning work within the food, hospitality, fashion, and automotive industries.

His eye for detail and sense of timing is obvious in his work. Vincent has extensive experience working in the resort and hospitality industry capturing images in over a hundred of San Diego's finest restaurants and resorts. His food photography has been featured in publications, cookbooks, and advertising.

In addition to his work at Vincent Knakal Photography, Vincent is also the Director of Photography for Mad Media, where he captures athletes and their machines around the globe in categories ranging from off-road to drifting in both two and four-wheeled vehicles. And as a contributing photographer for numerous publications, his captivating editorial covers and feature photography have earned Vincent numerous San Diego Press Club Awards in categories including food, fashion, home environment, and portraiture.