It was the early 1970s. As they stood admiring a scenic overlook, Gustav Schmiege's father handed his three-year-old son a camera on the island of St. Thomas. What happened next continues to this day: he took a photograph, and then another, and then another…

In retrospect, that beautiful moment marked the launching of his career. Upon graduating from Southern Methodist University, Gustav's commercial roster grew to include Neiman Marcus, Horchow, Stanley Korshak, Pavestone, Red Bull, Pier One, Bombay Kids, Brinker International, La Madeleine, Sara Lee, Rosewood Resorts, Clint Orms Engravers & Silversmiths, the Jan Barboglio Collection, DaKine, and many others.

He is a senior photographer for the Land Report, the magazine of the American Landowner. Other editorial assignments include Men’s Vogue, Men's Journal,Southern Accents, Esquire, Veranda, Redbook, Better Homes and Gardens publications,Cowboys and Indians Magazine, American Way, D Magazine, and Kiteboarding Magazine.

But some things never change—Gustav still shoots exotic locations. On an upcoming assignment he plans on going there not just with his camera bag and client, but also with his own son, Gustav IV, and family … continuing the tradition.