Photographer Interview: Prof1120

1. Who are you? Please give a brief background information.

I have lived most of my life in Philadelphia, Pa. I have worked as a college professor of English most of my working life.

2. How long have you been doing photography?

On and off for over 25 years. Recently I have become more serious about it. Though I previously worked in a darkroom, I never enjoyed it. My interest in photography was revitalized with the advent of digital photography.

3. How did you start doing photography? What got you interested in it?

My father was an enthusiast.

4. Do you earn living from photography or you do photography as your hobby/ your half time job?

Photography is hobby at this time; however, I am looking at the possibility of generating some income from it when I retire. This would serve to justify the traveling I intend to do.

6. Do you have special education? Did you take courses or go to a school learn photography?

No special education in photography, though I do hold an advanced degree in Art History.

7. Are you specializing in a particular area of photography? What are your favorite places/objects to shoot?

I most enjoy shooting macro but also like other wildlife photography. I enjoy urban photography as well, particularly as it relates to political themes.

9. How do you educate yourself? Do you read special literature, visit photography galleries? What photo books/magazines do you have on your bookshelf?

Mostly, I observe the works of others at various photography websites. I have the usual collection of coffee table photography books and several Photoshop instructional books. I am a frequent visitor of regional art museums for exhibits not only of photos but paintings as well.

10. What equipment and software do you use (camera(s), lenses, film, etc.)?

I am currently using Canon equipment: Canon 40d, Canon 5d, Canon XTi and a pretty full assortment of Canon “L” lenses. For macro, I’m using a Tamron 180mm and Sigma 105mm since I see better results from them than from any of the Canon macro lenses.

11. What is your opinion on post-processing, especially enhancing pictures?

Post processing is equivalent to dark room manipulation. There is, however, an integrity to any photo that should not be violated. A photo must be honest. Any enhancement should serve to reinforce a photo’s thesis, not produce results that are inauthentic.

12. What advice would you give someone who is interested in photography and wants to improve their photography skills?

In a word, observe. And know that when you point your camera at something, you are making a statement. Know what you want to say. Know why you are taking the picture. This will lead you to logical technical and proper artistic decisions.

13. What's the most challenging aspect of photography for you? What's the best part of it?

The most challenging aspect is achieving technical perfection in my photos. I am very demanding of myself in terms of achieving the effects I want. In macros, for example, I want perfect focus and the closest possible perspective.