Dec
08
2014What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I use a 5D Mark III camera for every of my works and I often switch between a Canon 50mm f.1.4 and a Canon 16-35mm f2.8.
I also have in my bag a Canon 24-70mm f2.8 but I prefer fixe lenses so i don’t use it very often. I also have a Manfrotto Tripod for night photography only. No filters are plugged on my lenses and I don’t like Flash light. I prefer constant light so I have a LED panel that i use for portrait stuff and only in studio. I have a big bag and specialize clothes for my reports across countries.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I completely like my camera. It’s a perfect equipment for what i want to do. I would probably prefer fix lenses like the 35mm f1.4 and the 85mm f1.2.
A second « security » camera will be great like the Canon 6D.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
It depend of the subject. For my portrait works I am completely crazy fan of my 50mm f1.4 because it create a perfect blur on the pictures, especially at f2.8.
For landscapes and report like Iceland, I use my 16-35mm for impressive picture like huge landscape and to create a big impression of space but I also use the 50mm for more abstract picture.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
For Iceland, I travelled with my camera, for sure, the 16-35mm f2.8 and the 50mm f1.4, the tripod and a microfiber tissue. Good gloves are reeeeaaally necessary if you want to take picture in cold countries. ^^
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
For my report, i only use Lightroom because i consider that if the picture is too modified, it has not the resentment that i felt during the shot.
For portrait, prefer to use Photoshop to create images more thin and precise.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I started photography when at the age of 20. After i decided to stop my studies after a licence in advertising and marketing strategy. I always love seeing pictures, understanding how it can be taken. What was the techniques.
And because of that curiosity, I deeply fall in what is now a real passion. I always try things, I always want to experiment new techniques. So I find the inspiration on what i discover or on what which bite my curiosity. When I’m in a country, I always shoot everything. I have a thin line of subject and I try to turn my spiritual approach on what I’ve decided.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I don’t like a special style. I’m always attracted by beautiful pictures. I’m completely open minded. If the subject of a picture is the life of an oyster in the north of San Francisco bay and if the picture is beautiful or bite my curiosity, it will be as much good as a picture taken by a famous photographer. I’m just focus on my personal feelings and how the picture can vibrate on my body.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
For me, it’s only a question of vibration. If I have the complete feeling that my picture is good or is vibrating, it means that I’ve reached a new step. And when I’ve reunited lot of « vibrating pictures », i try to create a link between them and that’s the moment I erase some of them because the whole are not coherent. To resume, first, the feelings and finally, the concrete part of the work and the research of consistency.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
I really like the work I’ve made in Iceland. Because it’s my first report and it’s my first lonely travel. I always wanted to go in Iceland but I didn’t find the strength to do that. I’ve decided to experience the loneliness of mind and discover what I’m capable to do. I’m really proud of the report because it’s the beginning of a new way of life. http://www.constant-photographie.com/islande-ce-pays-que-je-n-ai-pas-aime#0
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.
A part of my work is completely anchored in nature, landscapes, urban and artistic photography. And the other part fit into portrait photography. I’ve done Live Gig photography for two years too so it’s not possible to put my works in a box. I’m a free photographer and it’s a luxury i want to keep.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
I often visit artistic blog like Fubiz because I’m not focus only on photography but design, architecture, drawing are really important to feed my imagination. I follow many photographs on Facebook and it’s a perfect way to see fresh stuff, always reinvented. I also buy lot of photography books.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
I learned many lesson but the most important is probably « Don’t be idle, if you are not close enough of the subject, move your ass and be closer, you will never be too close of your subject »
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
I have many name Yohan Terraza has already an interview on your blog. Probably Sylvain Norget for his amazing portrait work. Anthony Fournier for his curiosity about photography and experimentation. Thomas Babeau for his impressive fashion work. I have probably many other photographers I want to name but they are already big : Erwin Olaf, Ryan McGinley, Annie Leibovitz…..STOP. Haha !
Constant Formé-Bècherat Photography
www.facebook.com/
http://twitter.com/
Apr
24
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I use Nikon equipment and more particularly Nikon D4 & D800. I have several lenses too as AFS 800/5.6 VR, 600/4 VR, 300/2.8 VR, 80-400 VR ED, 70-200 2.8 VR2, 24-120/4 VR. I have one monopod in gitzo carbon but I prefer to hold the camera rather than use a tripod.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I really like my camera because it is a strong equipment, adapted to bush constraints. Nevertheless, I dislike the heavy weight but, unfortunately, I have no choice…
What is your favorite lens, and why?
My favorite lens is AFS NIKKOR 800/5.6 VR FL ED because I can photography wild animals without disturbing them. Moreover, the quality is amazing and the weight is lighter than 600mm.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
Probably my eyes and my legs…
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I use Lightroom 4.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I work in photography since 1994. I started by working for press and then for sports agencies. I followed international competitions and tournaments like Olympics games, soccer, rugby, tennis… It was a great experience, very formative because you must be attentive, reactive, still available… In the same time, I dreamed about African continent, quiet and authenticity. That’s why, I decided to travel in Tanzania in 2002. For me, it was a tremendous shock ; it disrupted and changed my life and my approach of photography. Finally, I could shoot with my instinct, my feelings, my vision of photography and nature and not only for editorial requests.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I cannot say that I like a style of photography more than other. However, I have a particular fondness for portraiture and B&W. For me, black and white is the best way to express how I see animals and wildlife, how I feel their personality. I love images with high contrast and deep shadows because I think it feels more emotional… I try to use my photos as a vehicle for inducing emotions and moods, and conveying powerful messages. I hope I do well but it is not easy because it is very subjective…
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
When I travelled in Africa in 2002 to shoot African fauna, I had no idea what I wanted to do with. However, my aim was to shoot with my instinct, my feelings by adding dream, poetry and, sometimes, fun. It was when I started to show some of my pictures during exhibits that I realize that people feel touched too. It was a great pleasure of course and the beginning of a beautiful adventure.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
My favourite piece is a portrait of lion taken in 2007 in Tanzania (Serengeti). The picture named “Lion in the wind”. I like watching this picture because I remember the great moment I knew meeting this magnificent lion. I often thinking about this strong wild cat. It’s exactly what I’m looking for when I work in Africa : I’m always try to find a piece of eternal Africa, one of our origins as a lost paradise. One before the arrival of the white man, at the beginning of the era of industrialization, with its desire to impose progress wherever he goes. Main visible consequences : massive destruction of species and natural resources.
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.
B&W / Nature / Portrait / Fine art
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
I do not visit some particular photography websites but I am still curious of any new photographic works in any support (internet, books…).
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
To be ready at any time…
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog ?
I like both to discover new talents and also to re-discover the masters of photography, especially in B&W.
Laurent Baheux Photography
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Laurent-Baheux-photographer/153078781389198
http://500px.com/laurentbaheux
Feb
12
2014
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I use Canon cameras: 1DMKIV, 1DX, and 5DMKIII. Lenses are: 14mm fisheye, 16-35mm f/2.8 II, Nikon 14-24mm w/Novaflex adapter and Fotodiox Polarizer, 24-70mmL f/2.8 II, 70-200mm f/2.8 II, 28-350mmL, 400mmL f/5.6, 300mmL f/2.8, 400mmL f2.8, 1.4 and 2x converters, 100mm f2.8 macro.
Singh-Ray grad filters 2-stop – 5 stop hard and soft edge, Singh-Ray LB Warming Polarizers, 5, 10 and 15-stop ND’s, 8 stop Vari NE (all SIngh-Ray).
Canon 580 flashes.
Really Right Stuff: TVC-33 Versa Tripod, BH-33 ballhead, L-plates for all three cameras.
Gitzo Mountaineer 4 tripod with RRS ballhead.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I would love it if Canon was to make a lens similar to the Nikon 14-24mm. That is the sharpest wide-angle zoom lens on the market. Other than that, no complaints.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
My favorite lens for landscape is a split between the Nikon 14-24mm (for reasons stated) and my Canon 70-200mmL II as I love isolating scenes in nature.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
My travel bag is the new MindShift Rotation 180 degree Pro. I carry my Canon 5DMKIII and Canon 1DX, Nikon 14-24mm, Canon 24-70mm f2.8 and my 70-200mmL II f2.8 and a 1.4x converter along with all my filters in a Kinesis filter bag that hangs around my tripod.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
My post-porocessing is done with Lightroom 5, Photoshop CC, and Nik plugin filters.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I have been a professional photographer for 40 years. My inspiration is fed by just simply being in nature and allowing it to seep into my soul. At this point in my career, I really don’t follow others though both Galen Rowell and Ansel Adams had a huge influence in my development as a photographer.
My image taking process is rather complex and something I teach in my workshops but suffice it to say, depth, lines and shapes are how I see the world. I don’t think “subject first,” rather, I think “light first” then I try to find something in the landscape to match the light.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
The style of photography I do is landscape and sports (team photographer for the NHL’s San Jose Sharks). My images are represented by Getty Images.
My landscape photography is geared towards sharing the scene and emotion I am feeling at the time that I am making my image.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
My goal is simple: study light and art and work at my craft daily. One never stops learning as long as one’s mind is open to learning. Photography and art are an endless journey.
I also try to see the world with my eyes, heart and soul, not copy someone else. I study art, and that translates into seeing the world with an artist’s eye. I also experiment with processing and new software all the time.
Much of it I discard, but every once in a while something comes along that incorporate into my workflow. I am heavy into using luminosity masks to control multiple exposures of a single scene. It produces a much more realistic view of the world than HDR.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
I have many favorites, not sure if one stands head-and-shoulders above the rest. Here are my top 12 Images of 2013. The lightning image is listed as #1. I captured this image along the north rim of the Grand Canyon 28 days after partial knee replacement surgery:http://wp.me/p1u3wy-3n8
I was lucky I didn’t get hit as the following strike was right over my head!
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
Photo websites I visit regularly? No, I’m too busy with my own work. When I do have time off, I like being with my family and not surfing the web. Love playing golf with my two sons.
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.
Genres? Not really, I just go with what I am feeling at the time and I try not to put limits on myself.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Most Important lesson is simple: Study art and light, and practice, practice, practice. Remember the camera is just a tool, the artist is you. If you can’t feel an emotional attachment to what you are photographing, move on, the image won’t resonate with others.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
Gary Hart is a photographer you should feature. He is a good friend and colleague: www.garyhartphotography.com
Don Smith Photography
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Don-Smith-Photography/371422548082?fref=ts
I have just released a series of new videos (26) titled: A Simplified Method to Workflow. Here is the link: http://www.donsmithphotography.com/Asset.asp?AssetID=61078&AKey=J5ADJ6V2
Nov
04
2013Henry Jager Photography
http://www.conartix-photo.ch/home
http://1x.com/playlist/362489/popular
http://www.pixoto.com/henry.jager
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I’m using Olympus cameras since a long time. After working with their DSLRs like the E-3 and E-5 I switched to their mirrorless systems (OM-D E-M5) and now to their new flagship, the E-M1. I use Nauticam housings to shoot underwater together with the INON Z240 strobes and Light & Motion’s SolaVideo and SolaPhoto products.
To perform model shooting and studio photography I use also a Nikon D800E equipement.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
Besides the quality of the products, I’m fascinated how a small player like Olympus regularly brings inventions to the market which are really ahead of the big names.
My biggest dislike with my equipment is (or was) the size and weight of it. Flying with the DSLR to the dive destinations, an extra luggage of 32kg was needed just to transport the underwater part of the gear, having the camera and the lenses in the carry-on bag. This became much more convenient with the mirrorless systems.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
The m.Zuiko 60mm macro lens convinced me from the first shot. A brilliant sharpness, high resolution and a wonderful bokeh not reached by any other big name macro lenses made me love this lens till today.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
Camera and lenses, underwater housing including several ports, external strobes and lights, attaching devices, plenty of memory cards, a 5 outlet power bar with adaptor, a lot of accus and charger, a laptop and an external drive to backup my pictures. When performing also top water photography, several filters and a tripod are essentials, too.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I’m shooting raw and therefore I use postprocessing software. I use Adobe’s CS5 CameraRaw and Photoshop.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I started early in my youth taking pictures. I spent hours in the lab, the grammar school provided, developing the films and also adding creative effects while exposing on paper. Strangely I lost my hobby for years but recovered it 2007, starting with digital underwater photography. Enthusiasm drove photography to a never expected semi-pro level. Since a few months, I started also with experimental liquid and high speed photography connected with water in all its forms.
I get my Inspiration through beautiful sceneries, stress-free conditions and experimentation.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I don’t rank my different styles, I like underwater photography as well as my experimental liquids and high speed studio photography. They are so complete different and same exciting, that judging one as fav would not reflect my passion for both styles enough. And finally it’s the element water with all its life and physics etc. which is the core fascinating subject.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
I want to show the beauty of the underwater world to the broad audience, to people who never have the chance to visit the reefs by themselves. You only protect, what you know and what you love. Therefore I see my work also as a contribution to preserve the nature’s biodiversity.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
It’s the “Sardines Tornado”, A picture I made 2010 at Pescador Island, Philippines. It shows a school of sardines appearing like a tornado. Seconds after the shot, they passed in front of the sun and it darkened like with topside tornado, too. A picture full fo dynamic resulted and combined with the emotions experienced in that moment, leaving no doubt that this is my favourite 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.
My works fit into underwater photography, nature, wildlife, and experimental/abstract
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
1x.com
pixoto.com
theopen.ca
robinwong.blogspot.com
dxomark.com
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Take your time and be patient. Anticipate the behaviour of the animals.
Oct
11
2013Kurt Arrigo Photography
https://www.facebook.com/kurtarrigophotography
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
Bodies : Couple of Nikon D800s & D4.
Lenses from 16mm – 4002.8 – all pro lenses.
Leica M 240 – with 24, 50 f1 90mm.
For my underwater housing I use Subal.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I feel I have made the right choices with the systems I use for the shooting I do.
I wish they could be Salt water friendly – wishful thinking….
What is your favourite lens, and why?
I love the Noctulux Leica F1 Nikon 4002.8 & 35mm1.4.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
Leica System…
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I use photo mechanic / DXO / Photoshop – I keep my image real.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I have been shooting for over 20 years. I do a lot of activity swimming, sailing , cycling. I normally get inspired when doing activities and travelling.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I personally like working around real life scenarios, action, sports, underwater… working with people. Catching a moment. I love a challenge.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
Hard to choose one, I have many that have captured special moments.
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 the outdoors, demanding conditions – action / water / lifestyle.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Be patient learn to communicate well with people you are working with.
Sep
30
2013Milan Malovrh Photography
http://malovrhmilan.wix.com/photograpy
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I use Nikon equipment > D3x , D3s Nikor lens 24 – 120mm , 70 – 200mm for the horses photography. I also use 24mm , 50mm – 400mm , 500mm Fader ND filter, Tripod manfrotto.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
Reliability of equipment is on the level , but I have a desire to accelerate the processing of multiple exposure in sequential operation.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
Photos processed in PS 6 and the plugin Mistikal TNT.
What is your favorite lens, and why?
Nikor 70-200 2.8 is very fast and sharp.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
When I travel almost all my equipment is in the car, and all the essential is in my hand and in the camera bag.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
Photographing horses ( Lipizzaner ) inspired me for the last 5 years. First as a symbol of Beauty and power in nature , and later as dynamics of speed.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
Implement a stylish profile , having previously perfected the technique of shooting and minimal intervention in PS.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
I would not pick and individual photograph, but an entire series, especially the last impression of the dynamics technique with simultaneous multiple exposures DSLR triggering two sets of the same focal length with a variety of preset times. All together 3 shots combined in PS.
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 work is included in long exposure, sports and social photography.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
The most prestigious, 1x.com.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Be ready to give the eye something that doesn’t really happen.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
www.photographer-jure-kravanja.com
Sep
04
2013Martin Rak Photography
https://www.facebook.com/martin.rak.photography
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
Canon 5D Mark II, Canon 17-40 f/4L, Canon 70-200 f/4L IS, Canon 100-400 f/4.5-5.6L IS, Canon 100 f/2.8L Macro, Samyang 14 f/2.8, Gitzo tripod + Acratech ballhead, B+W polarizers
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I really like my camera, however I would like to see a decent wide angle zoom lens from Canon.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
I mostly shoot with the 17-40 and 70-200 so these two are probably my favourite lenses.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
I always take the camera, 17-40 and 70-200 with me, but when I go to Tuscany or South Moravia I take the 100-400 with me as well…
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I use Apple Aperture, Adobe Photoshop and NIK Silver Efex 2.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I have been interested in photography since childhood but I have been taking photographs seriously since 2009. I find most of my inspiration on the internet – sites like 1x.com, 500px.com, artlimited.net etc.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
I prefer landscape and nature photography because I like to travel and being outside.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
My only goal is improving my photography skills, so I won`t ever reach it as I can always get better…
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
My current favourite: http://www.martinrak.cz/galerie/bohemian-switzerland/6-288.html
I really like the composition and atmosphere of this 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.
As already mentioned above, my work mostly fits into landscape and nature photography. I also really enjoy experimenting with long exposure and BW photography.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
1x.com, 500px.com and artlimited.net
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
That light is the most important element in a photograph.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
Petr Hlous www.petrhlous.cz
Sep
02
2013Rita Vita Finzi Photography
www.flickr.com/photos/
www.blurb.com/my/store (my books)
www.redbubble.com/explore/
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
I don’t have any very “rich” and sophisticated equipment – and, actually, I don’t think you really need it. I have a very good camera – Canon 7D – and some very good lenses: Canon 70-200mm f/4, Canon 85mm f/1.8, Sigma 35mm f/1.4, Tamron 90mm f/2.8, Sigma 10-20mm 4-5.6, Canon 17-85mm 5.6; an old Manfrotto tripod and no filters – they will be my next purchase (e.g. for more and better long exposure experiments).
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
Honestly, the only reason sometimes I think about changing my camera is that with high iso it is annoying noisy – therefore the idea of a Canon EOS 5D Mark III is tempting me. But more than this, at the moment I am thinking/dreaming about a “step back” to analog photography (+ home printing) because I think that it is absolutely unique especially for black and white photos – so sharp, rich in tones and details and precious. I think this is my next “challenge” – yes, I think this would improve my equipment and my photography a lot.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
Sigma 35mm f/1.4: it is simply “perfection” – unbelievably bright and sharp, excellent for so many subjects – architecture, details, nature, close-up, and highly performing even in the worse light conditions. And nothing to envy to the Canon one, but really less expensive.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
It is always difficult to organize my photo kit bag when I fly, but I couldn’t go without my 35, 85 and 70-200; recently I take my 10-20 often with me, if I hadn’t it in Calatrava station (Liege) I would have cried 🙂
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I bought Aperture sometimes ago, and I am quite satisfied by it (for quick and easy post process); then Photoshop CS5, for more sophisticated works (what I call my “artworks”).
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
Photography for me is a quite recent discovery – I bought my first camera in 2007 – a tiny but lovely Konika Minolta DIMAGE A200 – then one year later my first Canon (Eos 350D), then a Canon 40D and now a Canon 7D. Before 2007, I didn’t even know what photography was …
About inspiration: difficult to reply – what I love is, more than subject itself, to be able to “see” things with different eyes, or, at least, to try it; what inspires me can be a particular light, some shadows, shapes or colours – a particular bokeh, or a situation, things like these. Anyway, first of all I am fascinating by architecture, geometries and composition (“urbanabstractions”) and I find inspiration from the world around me, travelling or just walking around; as much, inspiration comes by great “masters”, contemporary and not, and, why not? from the photo communities on the internet, that have had a very important role in my photographic development.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
Minimal photography – can be architecture or nature – is one of the two things I love the most. There are many reasons for this, one for all is that taking photographs means to me the attempt to go to the “core” of something, to catch the mistery, the harmony, the music, the meaning, the feeling and the vision. “Taking away” to arrive to the essence, yes, I think this is what I point to.
Another thing I love is creating “artworks”, taking inspiration and starting from a shot of mine, and transforming it into something completely different – process that allows my mind to fly.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
Well, difficult to answer this question: I think my principal goal is “enjoying” (that means silence, concentration, observation, even contemplation, time) and together with it learning – I still have a lot to learn, and improving, day by day. Therefore I am going on enjoying photography and the very special pleasure it gives to me. Anyway, at the moment I am into a sort of “transition moment”: looking for new challenges, as I wrote above: black and white + people (portraits and street shots), this is what I am looking at.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
Gosh, this IS difficult, and no, not because I think I have plenty of masterpieces!, but just because many shots take me back to some situation, or feeling, or particular moment. This said, may I provide more than one link? Just three, that can somehow represent my photography:
1. Architecture – Santiago Calatrava’s breathe: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritavitafinzi/6958548603/in/set-72157622803581807
2. Nature – “On the motionless branches of some trees … : http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritavitafinzi/6254445893/
3. Artworks – http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritavitafinzi/4425219843/
“TREES” – http://www.youtube.com/watch?
“DREAMS IN PROGRESS” – http://www.youtube.com/watch?
(here my postproductions in progress, from the original shot untill the final creation)
“SANTIAGO CALATRAVA’S BREATH” – http://www.youtube.com/watch?
(Calatrava’s Guillermine Station in Liege, Belgium)
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.
The links I provided above are referred to my most special interests: architecture, nature and artworks. But I am interested in all possibilities, genres and subjects – everything can be inspirational and everything can offer a different side and sight.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
Fickr has been the very first one – I joined in in 2007, and it has been my first “window” on photography world: I have learned a lot;
then 500px, Red Bubble; I also often visit many great master galleries, photo tutorials (e.g. on youtube, very usefull), canon community.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
That everything, even the most tiny and apparently insignificant thing, can be viewed into a different perspective; that photography is a matter of time, soul and concentration; that every day you can get surprised if only you are open to surprise yourself.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
1. Gianni Galassi (http://giannigalassi.typepad.com/), a master for architecture and urban abstractions
2. Tom McLaughlan (http://ministract.com/), an inspiring ministract artist
3. Alberta Dionisi (http://www.flickr.com/photos/albertadionisi/7186788945/) one of the more sophisticated photographers I have met on Flickr
well, this list can be really longer!
Jul
02
2013Mark Tipple Photography
https://www.facebook.com/MarkTipplePhoto
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
Cameras: Canon 5D MkII, Canon 5D MkIII.
Lenses: Canon 16-35, Canon 24-105, Canon 100-400.
Underwater: Aquatech DC-5 v2 (with conversion kit for 5DIII), Aquatech LP-3 8″ Dome port , Aquatech 50mm extension ring, Aquatech LP-Z flat port.
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
No complaints so far.
What is your favourite lens, and why?
Depends on the shoot, mainly close but wide so the 16-35 works well. For video I need IS though, so the 24-105 wins.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
Depends on the shoot, if it’s underwater then obviously the underwater gear plus scuba (if required). If it’s a run and gun doco then a stripped down kit is easier than fussing with equipment and missing the story.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
Adobe Lightroom and Final Cut Pro.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I’ve been in video and photography for about 10 years now, swapping between both mediums. I suck at telling stories, so I use photo and video to fill in the blanks.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
Real pictures, candid/documentary mainly. Environmental portraiture is also keeping me stoked at the moment.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
I hope I never reach my goals. I want to tell stories about people who are doing cool things, with no real angle, just a simple engaging story.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favourite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
West Away is my favourite film, www.marktipple.com/westaway, and the recent Shades of Morning series is my favourite photo series.
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 have no idea.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
www.aphotoeditor.com isn’t strictly photography related but is a necessity, then there’s the NY Times’ Lens Blog and a few other photojournalism sites.
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
Listen.
And finally, what other interesting photographers would you like to see in this blog?
A good friend Sarah Pabst is doing amazing work in South America
May
27
2013Thomas Duffy Photography
https://www.facebook.com/Duibhshith
What kind of equipment (camera body, lens, filters, flash, tripod, cleaning equipment other) do you use?
Nikon D5100
AF-S Nikkor 18-135mm 1:3.5-5.6G, AF-S Nikkor 35mm 1:1.8G
HOYA NDX400 Filter, Cokin ND Graduated Filter Kit P Series, with Filter Holder & Graduated ND Filters
Nikon Speedlight SB-600
What do you like and dislike about your equipment, specially your camera, and how would you improve it?
I like the image quality and that it’s very light weight. However, I would like to have a camera that has less features. I mostly use just the manual settings and I don’t need all the effects and other stuff that get in the way.
What is your favorite lens, and why?
I would say the 18-135mm is my favorite lens. It is light and easy to use and it’s pretty much the only lens I really use at this time.
When you travel, what is in your essential photographic kit bag?
Pretty much everything I use, fits in my Lowepro flipside 300 bag.
What kind of software/tools do you use for post-processing, if any?
I use Lightroom 4 and Pixelmator.
How long have you been taking photographs? How do you find inspiration? How do you take your pictures?
I started taking Photographs around 2006, when a friend lent me his Cannon D10. He had been doing photography as a side job, mostly senior portraits, weddings, and sport/action photos. Myself being more of an outdoors and artistic personality, started just taking still photos of landscapes, flowers, and random objects. I instantly was hooked and have been taking photo’s ever since. I find Inspiration by just going out to the garden, or by getting up at dawn and going for a hike to catch early sunrises, etc. I have done several of my own creative display set ups of seasonal objects, solo flower arrangements, and/or random settings. I like to create artistic photographic opportunities whenever I can.
Which style of photography do you like the most, and why?
Macro and landscape. For instance, I really like to take a close up of a flower shot and turn it into a unique work of art.
What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?
At this time my only goal is to share the beauty of creation that is all around me as creatively as I can. I have done a few weddings, but I don’t like having the stress of picture perfect settings, peoples, etc…so I prefer to work with nature and let beauty come alive. I try to learn techniques from studying other photographers that have similar interests to myself. I will research when I need to, but mostly just explore on my own.
Looking at your own work, which piece is your favorite? Why? Please provide a link to the picture.
I would have to say that my favorite is Fuchsia III, I Like the depth and textures and lighting on this piece. I also like that it is original and artistically unique in it’s own beauty.
http://500px.com/photo/14289829
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 several genres; landscape, long-exposure, black and white, and macro, being the main ones.
Are there any photography websites that you visit regularly?
www.500px.com, http://www.viewbug.com, http://www.pixoto.com,
What is the one most important lesson that you have learned since you started taking photographs?
As a photographer, don’t try to rush, take your time, try different settings, and try different perspectives.
In general, don’t leave your keys in the ignition when doing star trails and are 2-1/2 hours away from home…you may end up locked out!