Explain yourself

Frequently (and not so frequently) Asked Questions.

Why did you start another blog, wasn't the one you had good enough?
Yes, my friends and admirers. I have obviously started a new blog. Here's why.

A few days (weeks, months) ago I came to the realization that my hobby (photography) had almost completely taken over my personal blog space. I also realized that many people who read my personal blog went for photographs while others went to check up on my life biz. So, to make my (and your) life easier I've decided that placing my progression in photography into it's own blog space as this will provide an innumerable amount of positives.

So, why did you choose photography?
Well, there's not a straight answer to this question. I've always been interested in this particular art form but have always had some holdups when it came to pursuing. Most importantly, I did not have the money to start out. I mean, this form of self expression can become quite expensive. I came from a meager upbringing where this type of thing just literally wasn't possible. I went to college and got a "real" job and left all artistic desire to the wayside. I played with my point and shoot and, in the middle of photographing college parties, pretended that I was *like the best photographer of all time.* Second, I just didn't have the self confidence to make myself move forward. I still struggle with this.

I tried piano once, and both hands hit the same keys. Apparently, that's not how you do it.

With all that, it all boils down to this. I love capturing moments. I love that I can capture a smile and make it last a lifetime. Moments mean a lot to us, taking pictures means a lot to me... no matter how good...or bad they turn out.

What ya' packin'?
Canon 60D
430EXII Speedlite
Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L
Canon 50mm f/1.8II
Canon 85mm f/1.8
...and a kit lens.

Basically, I'm just starting to be serious about this hobby and am slowly upgrading and adding.

What equipment does your heart desire?
I'd be happy now with a good 35mm, a better 50 mm, maybe a good wide angle prime?
Also, possibly a 70-200mm.
It's gonna happen, little by little.

Eventually it'd be pretty epic to own a Mark II or III, but I'm not going to get ahead of myself here.
Like I said though, it's be so boss to own a full frame.

What's your preference? Telephoto or Prime?
Prime, hands down.
It's just easier for me at this stage.

So, like, how long have you been doing this?
Well, with serious intentions? On human subjects? About six months.

What do you edit with?
At the risk of making myself the laughing stock of photography everywhere, nothing. I use iPhoto. I'm serious. I literally could not photoshop myself out of a paper bag. I even have elements, and I've tried downloading actions and as far as I've gotten is whitening teeth...and that takes about 7 hours (not really 7 hours...but like...maybe 30 minutes). So, if you know anyone or anywhere offering classes on this stuff, shoot me a message. Though, I think pictures should be mostly untouched postproduction, I would like to know how to use this stuff.

Are you really starving?! That's horrible.
No, not literally. Actually, I could use to starve some.
Currently and for an indefinite amount of time I work strictly free/donation only.
One of my mentors actually picks on me and says "Only 200 more donations and you can buy another lens!"
The point is that I do have another paying job, a good one that allows me time to work on my hobby, spend with my family and the allowance to save for equipment.
I mean, I'm not Steve Jobs (God rest his soul) but I'm not "literally" starving either.

I guess you could say I'm starving for knowledge. There, that's a nicer thought.

How often do you take pictures?
Every. Single. Chance. I. Get.
I have been known to literally get off work and meet a friend in the park still wearing my scrubs.

I'm serious, one day...I'm gonna get this right. The only way to do that is to immerse myself in it. I fully intend to take that seriously.

What style of photography do you like best?
I like everything. Every notable photographer I've ever met or stalked has something to be proud of and a vision all their own. I highly admire this.

However, if I had to choose a personal favorite it would be the rustic golden hour look. I like vintage, I like barns, I LOVE golden light. I love pictures in color (I'd choose that over black and white almost any day). I love lens flare when done properly. I like natural beauty. I love the untouched details, freckles, dimples, the grain of wood, the movement of the ocean, laughs and looks of longing.

Who do you shoot?
Anyone and everyone. All shapes and colors, anywhere and everywhere. I even love assisting (not even necessarily shoot with, though I love that too!) other photographers so I can soak up their greatness and learn, learn, learn.

So basically, if you'd like me to practice on you...just shoot me a message. I'd love to!

What do you hope to get out of this blog?
I hope to get support.
I hope to get friends.
I hope to learn.
Mostly, I hope to find the confidence in myself to say "Hey, that was a nice shot."