A while back on Social Media I asked for questions–pretty much whatever anyone wanted to ask. I finally got enough questions, so here you go–Ask the Photographer:
What is your favorite piece of gear? Easy. My 70-200 mm/2.8 lens. I love it almost as much as I love my family. Really.
What is your favorite thing to photograph? People. They fascinate me. I love meeting my clients and getting to know them.
What is one technical tip you would give to a new photographer? Learn good basic camera skills. Don’t get caught up in some of the ridiculous post processing fads and get it right in the camera. Style will follow when you have mastered the basics.
How long have you been a photographer? I got a job as a photographer after my first daughter was born, but I have had a camera pretty much all of my life. My favorite course in college was photography with Jed Devine. Photography has a sense of immediacy that I love.
If you were not a photographer, what would you do? Nothing because I really can’t do anything else, sadly.
How did you learn about photography? I continually take classes and read about it. And lots and lots of trial and error.
What are your hobbies? I read a lot, love going to the movies, and yoga. I love to cook. I would love to travel more .
If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring four things (non survival related) with you, what would you bring? Hmmm. A lifetime supply of really good wine, a good utility knife, my camera, and my computer to edit. And my friend Janet would have to come with me because she would make it hilarious.
What is your criteria for your guests for that Dead or Alive Dinner Party you talk about? LOL. You have to be smart and a good conversationalist. Dull and silent people need not apply. And you cannot bring your cellphone.
What advice do you have for someone starting out as a photographer? Take actual classes and don’t just watch videos. You need to have someone who will physically show you what to do and answer your questions as you are doing things. Buy the best gear you can afford–key being “afford.” Practice all the time. Be patient, persistent, and recognize that it takes a long time and lots of commitment to become any good. Like anything worth doing, it is a major commitment.
That’s it–that is all she wrote. Send in anything else you want to ask and we can do this again.
Want to get photographed? I would love to chat. Call (518) 584-4237 or use the handy dandy Contact Form.
Oh, don’t forget to look at some Portrait Photography.
