What camera do you recommend?
It depends on your experience level. If you have never taken a picture, I would start with any of the Canon Powershot point & shoots. Learn how to shoot before you upgrade to an SLR, which can be confusing to learn how to use for a beginner. Once you are ready to upgrade to an SLR, any of the Canon or Nikon SLR bodies will produce good results. Great photography, however, is not the result of equipment, but in the photographer who takes the shot.
What photography equipment do you use?
In late March of 2009, I upgraded to a Canon EOS 5D Mark II, after about 4 years with a Canon EOS Rebel XT. I am currently using the following lenses: Canon EF 24-105 f/4L IS USM, Canon EF 70-200 f/2.8L USM, and the Canon EF 24-70 f/2.8L USM.
Less is more in my opinion, so I try to shoot with natural light as much as possible. I also have a variety of reflectors and diffusers that I use. While I do drool at the latest camera and lighting equipment to come out, I have to make due with what I have.
What is your favorite lens?
Hands down, the 24-70 f/2.8L. It’s the classic portrait lens, and is tact sharp. However, it is an expensive professional lens. It is worth every single penny, as it has rarely left my camera body since its purchase.
What format do you shoot in?
All digital. I got into photography after digital was introduced, so I stayed away from film. It takes too long, and can get quite expensive. In the digital format, I shoot only RAW. RAW gives you the most flexibility in the end result of your images.
What is your editing process?
My editing process can get quite complicated. The end result is usually a very large Photoshop file, anywhere from 150-200 MB each. I do not flatten my images, simply because once I flatten, I can’t go back and make changes. I don’t feel like it is worth it just to save a little space. Hard drive space is cheap, so I might as well save all the data that I can in an image.
The best way to learn post-processing or retouching techniques is through books and online tutorials. Some of the best resources on this subject is Lynda.com or Kelby Training.
What printing lab do you recommend?
For photographers, I greatly recommend WHCC. The color accuracy seems to be the best from WHCC. You can get a couple free 8×10 prints to test their lab results. Some other good labs are Mpix and Miller’s.
What kind of lighting do you use?
Very little. I’m a huge fan of natural light. I tend to shoot mostly outdoors in natural light, with reflector and diffusers. For a dramatic look, some images are produced with off-camera 580 EX flashes. Most studio work in my portfolio is produced in a group shoot type of situation, with a variety of softboxes, Alien Bees, and a ringlight. I love studio work, but do not have studio or the equipment at this time.
How did you get into photography?
By complete accident actually. I had only really picked up a camera once before, and I had very bad results, with a film camera. In March of 2003, I went on a Spring Break trip and borrowed my dad’s camera, taking random shots of everything. After that, I was hooked, and bought a small point & shoot, and practiced from there, and taught myself everything.
Do you have any formal training?
Absolutely not. I am 100% self-taught. I have never taken a class on photography, but have attended some studio workshops that have helped along the way. One of the best resources I have come across is networking through other photographers, with places such as Texas Photo Forum.