Feb
17
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I am using Canon 600D with 50 mm f /1.8 lens, tripod and remote control when I shot self portraits. I have 18-55 mm kit lens but I rarely use it.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I love my Canon 600D but sometimes I have focus problems. I wish to procure the Canon 5D mark III with a waterproof bag for underwater photography.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
50 mm f/1.4 and f/1.2 because they make beautiful bokeh.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I always take my Canon 600D and 50 mm f/1.8 lens, sometimes tripod and remote control.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I am using Photoshop CS6 to create a finish image. Sometimes I spend more than 5-6 hours per photo, I am perfectionist when it comes an image, I love that everything on photo looks perfect, just the way I imagine in my head.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I got into photography about 4 years ago and I am completely self-taught. I started taking random pictures of myself, nature and my friends to capture memories, mostly just for fun. I didn’t start taking it seriously until the autumn of 2012 when I bought new digital camera and realized how passionate I was about photography. That’s when I really started growing. Photography become my greatest love.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I love creating something unrealistic in realistic world. I love taking fine art/conceptual photos and portraits the most. I love telling stories with my images. I want, when people see my photo, to ask themselves is this a real or not? I love making realistic manipulation with my images.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
My goal is to constantly improve in the field of photography and to help people who wish to practice photography via workshops.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
“Guardian”
Because the crow is a spirit animal associated with life mysteries and magic. With this picture I wanted to show that even when you’re lonely, and you have no one to rely on, there is always something there that will protect you and be by your side.
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
My work fits into artistic, fine art/portrait, vintage, long-exposure and landscape.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
Facebook, flickr, photovogue, youpic.com, 500px, deviantart.com …
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Be persistent and don’t give up just because you don’t have a good camera. A good picture isn’t made with a good camera but rather a good idea. Just be imaginative 🙂
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
Oleg Oprisco, Brooke Shaden, Ravshaniya, Evelyn Bencicova, Jennifer Ilene …
Jovana Rikalo Photography
https://www.facebook.com/JovanaRikaloPhotography
Feb
07
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I currently use a Canon 5D MK II, 50mm, 100mm macro, 16-35 zoom, and I use the 135L whenever I can borrow it. I also have a 3 Legged Thing tripod that I adore, ThinkTank airport bag to faithfully transport all my gear, Alien Bee lights, and a studio with a grey wall.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I don’t really have any complaints about any of my gear. The MK II has focusing issues in dim light, but the MK III repaired that. Otherwise, I love all of them.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
I really love the 135L, it’s wonderfully sharp. I just have to make sure I’m in a studio that has enough room to shoot full length with it.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I’m constantly on the road, so my essential kit is very basic. I tend to bring my 3 Legged Thing tripod, ThinkTank bag, one MK II, my 50mm prime and my 16-35. That’s about it.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I do lots of post processing and it’s all Photoshop. I spend between 4-30 hours on each image.
How long have you been taking photographs?
I have been shooting for just over 4 years now.
How do you find inspiration?
I am inspired by everything. People watching, reading books, paintings, other photographers, music… Art is everywhere.
How do you take your pictures?
I generally do the concept pre-art, then go into the studio, set up the lighting to match what I want to retouch, and pose my subject to match. The photograph is just the rough sketch. What happens in post production is where I get more creative.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I love all kinds of photography, I just stick to the studio digital artwork for my own style though. However, I really love landscapes, fashion, beauty, animals, weddings… Anything that’s beautiful and haunting imagery is something that always sticks with me.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
This entire process of photography has been entirely accidental. I have no goal than to make better art than the day before. I love making art for commercial clients, movie posters, private collections and just because I wake up one day and want to make an image for myself.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite?
Hard to say. I have a love-hate relationship with all my images, like any artist I think. I’ve really enjoyed making this image though http://500px.com/photo/
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
I think it falls more into the fashion or digital art folder if anything. I’ve always struggled with defining what genre it falls into.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
I tend to browse www.500px.com, www.DIYPhotography.net, www.Fstoppers.com and www.SLRLounge.comfrequently. They’ve got great tips, tricks and talent on there 🙂
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Try, try, try again. Whenever I’ve had an idea in my head, I try it until I get it. Sometimes it takes years, but persistence has won out so far.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
Adrian Sommeling, Dracorubio, Joep Roosen, Ben VonWong, Amanda Diaz… Honestly, the list is long 🙂 There are many artists out there who deserve to be seen!
Renee Robyn Photography
Feb
05
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
Right now, my main camera is a Nikon D600. I worked with the D300s until May 2013, and then I felt the need to move on to a full-frame camera, and the D600 is wonderful. When it comes to lenses, I work mostly with a 50mm f/1.4 for self-portraiture and a 24-70mm f/2.8 for weddings and photoshoots. I also own a 50mm f/1.8 — which was pretty much set aside when I bought the 1.4, and a 35mm f/1.8 (all of them Nikkor) that I still keep on the body of my D300s, so that I have it at hand whenever I need it.
As for other equipment: I have a Manfrotto tripod that I swear on, since it’s incredibly sturdy, and a set of studio lights (with soft boxes) that offer both flash and continuous light, which I’m working with more, recently.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, especially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I adore the D600. I read a lot of reviews before I bought it and even though a few photographers thought it would be pointed at a more amateur-ish kind of buyer, I have to say that it works wonders for weddings and photo shoots, so I don’t see the problem at all. It’s not too chunky, it’s light and portable and wonderfully comfortable to shoot with. I keep recommending it to people, because I think it’s truly amazing. Other than that, I would probably like to invest in a better quality set of studio lights, but it’s not urgent, since mine still work pretty well.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
I have a favorite lens for each function. I love my 50mm f/1.4 for day-to-day work and for self-portraiture. For weddings, I definitely like the 24-70mm — it’s very versatile and sharp.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I’m mostly a light traveler when it comes to gear, so I only take my camera (and all it requires, such as batteries, charger, etc), a couple of memory cards and the 50mm f/1.4 lens. I could take the 24-70mm with me as well, but it’s a very expensive and heavy lens, and I would probably be constantly worrying about losing it or having it stolen. I also like to travel with an analogue camera, so I normally bring my Pentax Spotmatic with a couple rolls — and the photo meter app it requires, on my phone. Oh, talking about my phone, I am completely dependent on it when I’m traveling, for photos. It’s not uncommon to see me taking a photo with the camera and right away taking the same photo with my iPhone. It’s a strange addiction, but I just like having both perspectives.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I use Lightroom 5 for the first processing and then export in JPEG to Photoshop CC, where I do heavier work (manipulations, expansions, skin correction, deep color correction, etc). On my phone, I use VSCO Cam and Afterlight.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
These are big questions on their own, so I’ll address them separately.
I started taking photos as a kid. I got my first camera when I was 10, my own thing, that no one else could touch — it was a Canon Ixus that worked with APS film and which I took with me everywhere. It was quite an expensive habit for my parents to endure! And my first instant was a Polaroid Spice Cam with Spice Girls stickers on the side, when I was 11 — which I still have. I’ve been pretty addicted since then. Amongst my friends, I was almost always the one with the camera. I got my first digital camera when I was 16 and my first DSLR (a Nikon D40) when I was 21, and it completely changed my life.
My inspiration can come from books, from day-to-day experiences, from dreams or from art. I used to be a lot more prolific with my production (and with my inspiration) when I based a lot of my aesthetic sense in Mannerist and Baroque artists. At some point, however, I decided I was going to start building my own aesthetic notion, and to be honest I’m still working at that. I don’t think I’ll ever stop, it’s something that grows with me. But the inspiration itself can come from just about anything. Sometimes it’s just looking at a prop and the idea will jump at me. The ‘Orange, or the Return of Lady with the Butterflies’ picture, which is probably my most widely known piece, came to me when I was putting away the butterflies and realized that they were the same color of my shirt. That’s how simple it can be.
My method is rather simple. I don’t like photographing concept pieces with other people, unless it’s my significant other, in front of whom I’m completely comfortable. I work better alone than I do with company, even of other photographers — but to be honest, the latter is not an experience that I’ve had regularly enough to be able to evaluate properly. But my photographing moments are basic — if I have a specific idea, I’ll take ten or twenty shots and it will be done. If not, if I’m just wanting to express something and not exactly knowing how (which is the most common mood for me, recently), I get the props that I relate with the subject and start trying things out. The story sort of comes as I go. I enjoy the process of creating different versions of myself immensely, so I also enjoy the time it takes me to get to a story, through props and images.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I’m very partial to self-portraiture. Not just because it’s my main theme, but because it’s where I can sort of glimpse into the life of the artists, into their minds and how their themes relate to me, at the same time. I’m terribly voyeuristic, in that sense. I like knowing what people are feeling, and self-portraiture, whether intended or not, can give me a peek at what’s inside that artist.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
I think my goals are always changing. There was a time, when I was starting out, when I worked for Explores, on Flickr. I worked for the recognition and I reveled on that. And then I grew a bit, and that stopped mattering. I started to enjoy more quality than quantity in my feedback, started to pay more attention to who looks at my work, instead of how many of them. Right now, my goal is to have a solo exhibit somewhere. And most of all, to have enough material that I’m proud enough to want to exhibit. My constant goal is to always be better than the previous photo — which isn’t always possible; my relative goal changes according to where I am in life and in my craft.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
I have to be cheesy and to say it’s the Lady with the Butterflies. It’s a very emotional piece for me, and I think that’s why it touched so many people. It came out of a horrible period of my life, the first time I put down the camera for a month, after having done a 365 project, a 52 weeks project, and being halfway through my second 365. I had a bit of a breakdown and needed to stop — this shot was the first thing that came out of my brain after that pause, and it’s still the piece I like the most.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/luminous-lu/7302600034/in/set-72157623852571132
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
Most definitely ‘Artistic’. Maybe artistic self-portraiture?
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
This one! Quite a few of my friends have been featured here, and I started to look at this site whenever I wanted to find new photographers to look at. It’s wonderful.
I also visit the recently created but hugely successful “The Portfolio” (http://tpgconversations.tumblr.com/), on tumblr. It has some great work and the interviews are very interesting. Other than that, it’s mostly Flickr and 500px.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
That I can create my own world. That’s the greatest power my photography has given me — to imagine whatever I want and to make it happen on my computer. And that gave me the will I needed to never stop dreaming, never stop imagining silly and inconceivable scenarios. They can come true, even if it’s simply as a photograph. Oh, and don’t try to make yourself fit into small suitcases. You’ll end up bruised and limping for a week.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
Elle Moss, who was my biggest inspiration when I first started to photograph. To this day, I think my style sort of branches out from hers, and I hope to one day achieve her level of quality.
Luminous Photography
Jan
29
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
-Camera: Canon EOS 7D
-Lens: 50mm/1.4, 50mm/1.8, 70-200mm, 85-135mm
-Flash: Canon Speedlite 270EX, REVUEtron c35s
-Others: Reflector, UV Filters, Tripod
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I actually love my equipment. I used to have a Canon EOS 550D, which was a starter DSLR and I upgraded to a 7D. It’s so user friendly; it’s so easy to understand how to use and the functions are all set out in such a way which makes shooting a lot easier. Maybe the only thing I would improve about my 7D is that I wish it had a Double Exposure function.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
500mm/1.4 definitely. Probably because of the depth of field. I always tend to shoot at 1.4, I love the bokeh it creates in the background and how sharp the subject usually is. However, I’ve heard that the 85mm and 35mm are also pretty good for this too, but I havent tried them out yet, which I plan to do soon 🙂
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I don’t travel much, but when I do I take all my photography stuff except my reflector and tripod or my 50mm/1.8. Everything else (all the lenses, my camera of course, my flash and my filters) as well as the Canon cleaning equipment and my Holga 135 if I have the urge to play around with film.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I stick to Photoshop CS5. Long ago I used to use Picnik, haha, saying it now is pretty embarrassing. But yeah, I stick with Photoshop, I do have Lightroom, etc. but I don’t see the need in using them yet, probably because I don’t exactly know their function properly.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
It started out as a little hobby in 2010 where I would photograph a couple of my friends and take photos of completely random things to be honest. I then started my 365, whereby I only got really serious towards the second half of it, because I actually realised how much I really enjoyed taking photos, especially of people. After that, I kind of just practiced and practiced for the next 2 years, starting my photography page last year, meeting so many amazing other photographers and people on the way.
I find inspiration in any way possible, it could be through a movie, tv series (American Horror Story has been one of my main inspirations recently), music videos (beyonce’s new album especially), books, poems, through friends or even other photographers.
How do I take my photos? Honestly, I usually go with the flow. When I have a client, they usually ask me, do you have a theme? And most of the time I don’t, which I would like to really start doing. Whatever comes to mind on that day, I do, whether it be normal portraits or conceptual images.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
Definitely either portrait photography, because you can capture so many different emotions and everyone’s facial structure/features are different from one another, which makes each photograph different from the last, or conceptual/fine art photography, because with this style there are no limits. Your mind can literally wonder to the end of the earth and beyond, creating your own world and stories in photographs. It allows you to release your personal side, to me it does at least, and portray your emotions into a photograph or story, especially if you dont take self portraits, like me.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
My goal is to improve my creativity this year, I want to push myself to think out of the box and do some really different things, which I wouldnt usually do. I’ll know by the end of year, when I look back at my work of 2014
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
Probably this one, because of the simplicity and the colours of it as well as her emotion. It was inspired by the amazing Megan WIlson Photography 🙂
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
Probably artistic, as well as conceptual.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
I’m always on flickr but I usually browse through photographer’s pages on facebook 24/7. I’ve liked about 200 photography pages and I usually just look their pages whenever their photos pop up on my newsfeed 🙂
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Be yourself and don’t be put down by others. Do what you love and work hard at it and it will definitely pay off.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
I’ll list a few 🙂
-Sarah Ann Loreth
-Joel Robison
-Tasha Tong Faye
-Frankie Entickap
-Cansu Ozkaraca
-Joshua Malik
-David Talley
-Rosie Hardy
Daniel Adams Photography
https://www.facebook.com/daniel.l.adamsphotography
Jan
22
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I’m using Canon EOS 550d with 50mm f/1.4 and classic 18-55 kit lenses and hama travelling mini pro tripod which was a gift, and that’s all I use, I guess. . I used to take photos with small compact camera Samsung ES75.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
The thing that really drives me crazy is that I don’t have remote controller so I have to use 10 seconds timer, and since I like to do selfportraits in water sometimes it gets quite exhausting to run to my camera and than get back in water. Another thing that really bothers me are my lenses , my focus ring stucked some time ago and i can’t shoot anything closer than 1,5 meters. My ”dream” equipment is canon 5dmark II but I am still going to high school and I don’t have a job so for now that’s only a dream hopefully it will come true one day. I’d also like to have polaroid and underwater camera bag and I’m looking forward buying them! 😀
What is your favourite lens, and why?
Although I like my lenses, i think any other wider lenses with low f stop will suit my photo style more.I like canon 50 mm f/1.4 because it creates wonderful bokeh.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
When I travel i carry my tripod and my camera only, and since I take all of my photos in my village i don’t travel to further locations that much.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I use edit my photos a lot,and I’m just starting with learning new tehniques so it’s really entertaining 🙂 I’m using photoshop cs5 and I’m really happy with this version.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I’ve been taking hotographs for a few years now, but with long pauses because I was very young and had issues with equipment , I struggled with ideas etc,. I am inspired by almost everything, mostly with idea of dying, because I don’t find dying that scary like others do, there’s something beautifull in it.There are many ways I take picture, sometimes I first think of story I want to tell,sometimes I first choose a model to work with and than I think of other things such as wardrobe,location..
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I mostly like fine-art photography because it has something to do with surreal,but I enjoy fashion and conceptual photography too, so i would like to combine this three genres of photography in future.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
I’d like to create timeless stories.
My goal is to make timeless images which will inspire other people to see that beauty in darkness, to share my passion about art , and to show the world that one can do a lot to . Art is underrated in the world, specially when we talk about young people so I’d like to show young people that art is beautiful and even fun!
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
Favourite photo I took is millenium(http://www.flickr.com/photos/kidfromtheozz/7557582960/) because in that one you can clearly see beauty in darkness, picture of boy in the water sourrended by dark water , with that red color of the roses popping out creates the timeless feeling.
That one is special to me because it was the first time i did selfportraitthe water and also first one of my photos to be choosen as a photo of the day on photovogue.
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
I’d say my artistic and fine art category suits my photos best because they are heavilly edited , surreal , with a lot of textures.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
I visit flickr sometimes,photovogue on daily basis etc. I also have facebook page on which I am active (I made a break of facebook for some time)
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
The most imortant lesson I learned is that imperfection makes picture perfect. Also the one regarding lesson I learned is that failure is ok and that everyting pays off sooner or later. And last but not least that beauty is everything.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
I’d like to see Marina Refur,Dolores Juhas,Jessica Schroer…
Marko Nadj Photography
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Marko-Nadj-photography/114638898611263
Jan
17
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I use Canon 5D Mark II digital camera and 50mm f/1.4 Canon lens. I use tripod, natural lightning and a remote control. That’s all! Also, I love to experiment with analog/FD lenses, for example Helios 58mm f/2. This is an amazing little lens from Russia, that has crazy circular bokeh, amazing coloring and sharpness.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I like everything about my equipment and I am in love with Canon. But I need a wide angle lens, cause I have only 50mm.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
Definitely Canon 50mm f/1.4, I use it all the time. I think you don’t have to have the best equipment, the best camera in the world and a lot of lenses. Camera is a tool you use, and you have to know how to use it.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I always take my tripod, my camera Canon 5D Mark II and Canon 50mm f/1.4 lens, aluminium reflector and my laptop. Why? Because that’s all I got!
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
Yes, I edit photographs in excellent Adobe Photoshop CS6. Programs for processing photos release a person’s creativity and allow you to be different from others. I love to compose several photos into one, or play with multiple layers. I do a lot of retouching, and I’m used to spending 10 hours or more in front of my computer editing photos.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I was born in Bihac, Bosnia and Herzegovina, I’m 24 years old and have graduated with a degree in mathematics and computer sciences. I work currently as a computer science teacher in middle school in Bihac. Also I am working with Trevillion Images (freelance), and Art+Commerce/Vogue Italia (freelance). I began taking photos when I was 19 years old when I got my first digital camera, and since that photography has become my greatest love.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I’m interested in art/fine art photography the most, but I also do fashion, street and classic portraits photography.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
My dream is to study photography at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. I am waiting for some schollarship to come around.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
My favorite photo is „See through“ (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=704155462936426&set=a.704154896269816.1073741863.182472465104731&type=3&theater).
I have found inspiration in unique beauty that redheads with freckles have. Freckles are used to be considered undesirable and unsightly, but today they have reached full splendor in the world of photography. I also think that every person is beautiful in their own way, so I find every person inspirational.
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
My work fit into artistic, vintage, street, long exposure fine art and portrait.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
Yes, there are. I like to visit 500px.com and vogue.it/photovogue daily. I often visit society6.com, deviantart.com, viewbug.com, pixoto.com and youpic.com.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Follow your heart. And the most important is that you don’t have to have the best camera and a lot of lenses, it’s the emotions that count. If you make an artwork which will touch other people’s hearts, then you succeded. 🙂
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
Katerina Plotnikova, Kirsty Mitchell, Oleg Oprisco. They all have beautiful minds!
Maja Topcagic Photography
https://www.facebook.com/angelicaphotographs
Jan
15
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I use a Pentax K-7 with four lenses from different brands from ultra wide angel to 300 mm Tele.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
Honestly I’m not very happy with my camera from the very beginning. It’s having an Autofocus failure out of the package. I heard many Pentax K-7 models have this problem. What I like about the camera is the weather resistance. I can shoot by bad weather without being worry damaging the camera. And the weigh of the body is a plus point as well. You can carry it a whole day without breaking your neck.
How I could improve my gear is probably changing the whole system.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
I like wide angle lenses. As the name says, they can capture a wide field of view and I like the dramatic dynamic effect of distorting of them. For example by shooting clouds.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I have a Lowerpro Flipside 300 as backpack. It is small and light and enough for my gear. I fill it with the body, the four lenses, a small digital camera, several SD-Cards, a grip, extra batteries and a head light. And a tripod is certainly a must.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I use only photoshop for every kind of post processing. I can’t imagine any other softwares better that photoshop. I also use a few plugins like Niksotware.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
Like many other photographers I found my interest in photography in a very young age. I climbed mountains with my father very often and once in age of 14 we overnighted in a shelter on mountain top and very early morning I woke up and photographed the sunrise. It came out a nice image and my father printed and put it in his office and it is still there. So, I think that was the beginning.
I believe my inspirations don’t have their root in visual arts, but rather in philosophy, literature and music above all. Before becoming serious with photography I wrote sometimes poems and often my thoughts. Parallel listening to music, specially classical and dark-genre. I wished I could make music or play any instruments, but sadly I can’t. I needed to do something creative and just listening to music or occasional writing weren’t satisfying. Photography turned to a medium to reflect those thoughts and feelings in a visual creative manner.
I very seldom get out to shoot, and if, it’s most of time in colder and darker periods of year, because the weather simply matches better to my imagination. I live in a place very close to nature and most of my images have been taken in a radius of 25 km from where I live. Otherwise I shoot a lot while traveling. But it’s different for photomontages. If I have an idea for a specific image with specific elements and symbolics I look for them and use them later in the image.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I like surreal and mood and minimal photography the most. Fact is surreal photomontages can’t be observed as pure photography, since they are not created by pressing the shutter just one time and the scene never has existed in reality. I like to use real elements to create unreal worlds, which is a prove to the perception of our mind from our environment. Those moments when you become tired, bored, angry or disappointed by the world around you and you need new worlds, which only exist in your mind. A refuge, where you are the only ruler and you determine every happenings. On the other side the mood photography becomes a companion through your soul wanderings. It takes and carries a part of your burden walking beside your solitude.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
This is a difficult question. I don’t know the answer completely. But I think my final goal isn’t static, it is dynamic. Meaning it hasn’t an end, so it is principally not a goal . But I try to go deeper an deeper in content and the message of an image. Not only the visual enjoyment or pleasure of an image is important, but also the content. I know I have reached the satisfaction when I smile after the image is done.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
My absolute personal favorite piece is one of my very few images with a title! It’s called “The Perfect Death” and it’s quiet an old piece. I made it 5 years ago. It is an extremely personal work and I like it the most because it mirrors perfectly a certain period of my life. It is an affirmation to my philosophy from that day to today. Link: http://steppenwolf.pixu.com/images/hd/33abb1fc3278759439650099059734e1.jpg
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
Most of my works are artistic black and white. Rarely I do color too.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
At the moment not really. But I used to visit 1x.com daily. I also like “Artlimited” and visit it often. I believe they have a very high standard on images. Specially black and white photography.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Be yourself , be honest with yourself and be faithful with your work.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
Oh, there are many great photographers out there. I can’t recall any specific one right now.
Kaveh Hosseini Photography
http://www.kaveh-hosseini.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Hosseini.Kaveh
Jan
10
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I use a Sony Alpha 99 (full frame) with a variety of lenses (SAL100M28, SAL35F18, Minolta 50 mm, SAL1635Z and finally a lensbaby), and depending on the setting I may use my Hensel studio lights or on the go, I’ll use my lumopro LP 180 and saber strip diffuser – although there’s nothing wrong with natural light either. To keep my sensor clean I’m a big fan of the arctic butterfly.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I’d love to take it all with me all the time, but you know, you just can’t. So to lighten the load I have to pick my favorite lens and just go with it. Despite my really nice epiphanie bags, a long day of walking and shooting is hard on the shoulders when I have my bags fully stuffed.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
That really depends on what I’m doing. I own all my favorites so far 😉 Each comes out to play when the time is right.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
Well, travel is especially tricky. I try not to be a photographer all the time, but I also regret the times I leave my gear behind in the hotel or at home. When I’m on vacation or in a unique destination I try to force myself to use a lens I might not normally consider for the job. So rather than a wide angle for the city, maybe I’ll use my lensbaby and really look at my surroundings from a different point of view. But, I nearly always have the rest of my gear back at the room just in case I see something I HAVE to get and get right.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I’m a big fan of Bridge and raw processing. I pop into Photoshop only if I need to do some heavy work, otherwise it’s all RAW. I know people love LightRoom, I just haven’t been able to make friends with it yet.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I’ve been using a camera as part of my work for years now, but only recently branched out to make that the focus of my creative work. In 2007 I had my first photography exhibit and have been shooting commercially and creatively since. I find my inspiration in the challenge of trying something new, something I may not be certain how to do.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I love the movement that has taken hold over the last couple of years where the quality of light has become a major element in the final image. Lens flare, blowout, and images flooded with golden backlighting really catch my eye. I think it’s partially because it’s those moments in real life that make me stop and take notice of just how beautiful the world around us can be, no matter your surroundings.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
My goal is to keep learning and challenging myself as a photographer. There will always be more to learn as technology speeds along and new perspectives and creative interpretations of the medium come about and so really, there is no end point.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
I suppose my favorite image would probably have to be the one that gives a nod to my past life and roots as a fine artist. http://www.stocksy.
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
It would seem that I wear many hats. As someone who is continually pushing myself to grow and learn, I tend to wander from one genre to another. I shoot food photography commercially (and yet you don’t see it in my stock photography much), I love shooting portraits and children, but I really indulge in the still life studio work (see my series of purses or knolling work on stocksy). The still life work gives me an opportunity to play voyeur and invite you along for the trip.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
Google + – although it’s not technically just for photography, I’ve met so many photographers on there who helped to really push me forward. I also really enjoy 500PX.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Don’t take your work too seriously and don’t force it. If you don’t feel it, step back and ask yourself, is there another way that I could approach this subject? I think we all hit a brick wall now and again, and I know I certainly did a couple of years ago while on vacation. I was surrounded by the beautiful North Woods, on a crystal blue lake, surrounded by nature. The place screamed for landscape photography… instead I turned to my macro and 50 mm lenses and started to capture the ripples in the water in different lighting and different weather conditions. The narrow focus and fast shutter froze time beautifully and I now have a much more memorable collection of work that I truly love. Is it commercial? No. But I love it and it will always remind me of that place.
And finally, what other interesting photographers
Melissa T. Hall, her work is nothing short of inspirational. http://www.
Suzanne Clements Photography
https://www.facebook.com/SuzanneClementsPhotography/info
Jan
03
2014Nadia Wicker Photography
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I have a Canon 5d Mk2, a 50mm 1,8 lens, a 100 mm 2,8 lens, a Manfrotto tripod and a remote control.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I’m really not technically inclined ! But well, I would like my tripod to be able to walk 😀
What is your favourite lens, and why?
My 100mm 20,8 lens, without hesitation !
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I’m always taking my 5d and my lenses but I finally always shoot with my phone !
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
Photoshop cs4 and I’m discovering Lightroom since a few weeks. And of course a wacom tablet ! Didn’t touch a computer mouse since years, I’m using my tablet for everything.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I started taking photographs in 2005. I find my inspiration everywhere : movies, life, street, people, paintings, shops…
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I like classic, trying to capture the beauty I see from people, real things, and I like colored and surreal pictures, to create something only exists in my mind.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
My goal is to continue creating and living with this, hope to earn a little bit more money to be freer.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
Maybe this one : http://www.nadiawicker.com/
I’m in love with the colors and the details on the high resolution.
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
Selfportrait, artistic, surreal, fine arts…
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
Behance.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Patience and perseverance !
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
Ruben Brulat
Dec
27
2013Sami Lane Photography
https://www.facebook.com/samilanephoto
http://instagram.com/ssamilane
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I use canon eos 5d mark ii, canon ef 50mm 1.4, canon ef 24-70 2.8 mark ii, Helious 44-2 (manual lens with adaptor), Nikkor 135mm f2 (manual lens with adaptor), a cheap tripod which I can’t even find the model or name for it.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I love my equipment, I love prime lenses and there is nothing i dislike about my gear.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
My favourite lens is probably canon ef 135mm f2 or canon ef 85mm 1.2, I love the shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh that these lenses make.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I usually travel with Vanguard up-rise 46 so i carry all my gear with me.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I use adobe photoshop cs6 extended, adobe lightroom 4.3 for my main editing and color efex pro, silver efex pro, knoll light factory and few other plugging for my visual effects.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I’ve been taking photos since November 2011 and I usually find inspiration photos from all around the Internet, usually from500px.com, 1x.com, phlearn.com and many other websites. And sometimes I get inspired from my culture which is Persian culture from Iran.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I like fine art/conceptual because in most of fine art/conceptual photographs there are meaning and there has been thinking behind it.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
I want to be known to the whole world and have photographs that when people see they will wait and think… something that will even make changes in people life’s… and I’m sure I will reach my goal in less than 5 years.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
There are so many of my works that are my favourites… for example this work, http://500px.com/photo/
Does your work fit into any one or more distinct genres (nature, landscape, long-exposure, black-and-white, infra-red, urban, artistic, macro, vintage, vernacular, social, street)? If other, please specify.
I believe my style of work is conceptual, artistic and fine art.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
Yes, http://fstoppers.com/, http://phlearn.com/, http://www.slrlounge.com/, http://121clicks.com/ and http://500px.com/popular.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
The most important lesson I’ve learned since I started photography is that there is no success by yourself, you need help from others to get you where you want to be.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
I would like to see Joey Lawrence.