Orange County, CA | Freelance Photographer/ Videographer
(714) 831-5000 | [email protected] | www.gswar.com
Dedicated and versatile professional photographer with over two decades of experience capturing compelling images and significant life milestones. Transitioned from a successful 12-year career in mechanical design drafting to pursue a lifelong passion for photography, opening a full-time studio in 2006. Brings a unique, detail-oriented perspective shaped by early studio work in Myanmar, natural landscape training in California, and disciplined service in the U.S. Army. Known for exceptional interpersonal skills and a warm, patient approach; as a dedicated family man, excels at building rapport with clients of all ages and naturally bringing out the best in children during family and event sessions.
Wedding & Quinceañera Photography
Family & Child Portraiture
High-Profile Event Coverage
Professional & Corporate Headshots
Photojournalism & Documentary Photography
Studio Lighting & Natural Landscapes
Interpersonal Skills: Client Relationship Building, Child & Family Engagement, Event Direction, Patience & Adaptability
Post-Production Software: Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro, Apple Final Cut Pro
Camera Systems: Canon (Primary), Panasonic, Sony (Familiar/Currently Transitioning)
Owner & Lead Photographer George Swar Photography Studio | Santa Ana/ Garden Grove, CA | 2006 – Present
Direct and operate a full-time photography studio specializing in weddings, Quinceañeras, and milestone events throughout Southern California.
Provide comprehensive event coverage, highlighted by serving as the main photographer for Nobel Peace Prize laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s speech in Los Angeles in 2012.
Capture professional headshots for a diverse local clientele, including realtors, lawyers, and medical professionals.
Leverage strong interpersonal skills to direct large groups and keep young children engaged, ensuring natural, high-quality family portraits.
Maintain the highest standards of industry quality and business practices as an active member of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA).
Freelance Photographer Orange County, CA | 2001 – 2006
Built a foundational freelance business, honing skills in various photographic disciplines before launching a dedicated studio space.
Mechanical Design Drafter Orthodyne Electronics | Irvine | 1998 – 2006
Completed a successful 12-year career in mechanical design drafting, utilizing technical precision and keen attention to detail.
U.S. Army Soldier United States Army | 1998-2001
Served honorably for three years, developing strong discipline, adaptability, and leadership skills.
Maintained a strong interest in photojournalism and war correspondence throughout service.
Photography Assistant Dr. John Atkinson | Laguna Beach, CA | 1989 – 1990
Assisted a specialized natural landscape photographer, mastering outdoor lighting and composition techniques upon immigrating to the United States.
Studio Assistant Portrait Studio | Myanmar | Summer 1984
Discovered a foundational passion for photography during a summer apprenticeship, learning the fundamentals of portraiture and studio operations.
Coursework in Mechanical Design | Orange College 1994
Coursework in Film and Photography | Orange College 1994
Member | Professional Photographers of America (PPA) | 2006 – Present