At ViewBug we love to feature creative photography, today we are sharing the amazing images of the front and center photo contest winner Michael_higgins, enjoy, learn and read on!
What are your quick 5 tips for others who want to become better photographers?
1. For landscapes, don't forget about the foreground. Lead the viewer's eye into your scene.
2. Upgrading your gear is important up to a point, but its always about improving your content and experimentation.
3. Get low. The world and its living things can be so dramatic from ground-level.
4. Get some quality rubber boots. I can't even count the amount of desired shooting positions that have been barricaded by bogs and muddy streams.
5. Learn how to access the histogram on your camera and how to read it. You can adjust for blown-out highlights on the scene, but if you notice them for the first time on your computer screen at home, you're screwed because that swan's feathers aren't coming back.
What inspired you to be a photographer?
I had the cheapest of point-and-shoots about 10 years ago, but it wasn't without a flash-compensation feature. I was taking photos of the family dog in front of the sunset, and after a few attempts I managed to expose the sunset properly as well as the dog in the same shot, thanks to learning how to adjust the flash power. I don't remember taking any special joy in photography before that moment.
What was your first camera and what do you shoot with today?
My first digital camera was an HP photosmart point-and-shoot. A drink was spilled on it and the door to DSLR photography opened. I purchased a Nikon D40, then traded for a D90. Now I also own a D610.
When someone looks at your photos, what do you want them to feel?
I simply want to share what I've seen, or shine a different light on things people have seen for themselves, and hopefully the viewer gains a new appreciation for everything around them.
What is it that you love about photography?
When I've waited a long time in a canoe, a chair, a bush...to capture that moment that I know is coming, and then it happens and I see it on my camera screen...I love that natural high, and the anticipation of getting home to share this wonderful new photo. When experimenting with slow shutter speeds or off-camera flash, I love the moment when my furrowed brow gives way to a slow and satisfied smile when I get the shot that I've been envisioning for an hour.
How do you describe your style?
Crisp and clean.
If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?
I need to get a wide angle; I long for something wider than my current widest of 24mm (on my 24-70, 2.8). I want to capture more foreground in my landscapes.
Raw vs jpg and why?
Raw. The art of photography doesn't stop after the shutter click. Movie stars need makeup, showdogs need a brushing, and gourmet foods need seasoning. Everything that is meant to be enjoyed needs a finishing touch, and Raw format maximizes a photographer's ability to polish their image.
What do you carry in your camera bag?
Nikon D610, Nikkor 70-200 2.8 VRII, Nikkor 24-70 2.8, and a prime 50. My flash is a Nikon SB-700 and I sometimes bring out my Lumopro LP160 flash.
What is the most common mistake you see people making when shooting these days?
Many amateur photographers can take a big step towards being advanced by giving the background a little more scrutiny. Example: As you look through your viewfinder, your handsome dog is content, and the late-day sun dances off his glossy fur just right, all may seem well, but that's because you thought you were only photographing the subject. Later on, you can't stop seeing the rusty barbecue framing his head. Every subject is going to have a background, its really important to notice it.
What is your dream location to shoot?
No location in particular, but I would love to photograph a wildfire or tornado...not as a frame-filling subject, but as a focal point in a sprawling landscape.
What is next for you? Any planned adventures with your camera?
-n late May, I am canoeing into the backcountry of Ontario's Algonquin Park for a 4 night stay. Wildlife, streams, lakes, no light pollution...gonna be great. Last time I was there, I photographed "In Today's News".
What is your goal with your photography?
I want to become the go-to dog photographer in my hometown of Ottawa, Ontario. I don't own a studio...no dogs on cushions with bows on their head. My dog photography takes place in natural settings. I like to imagine the dogs want to be immortalized jumping over logs and crashing through streams like their ancestors.
Thank you Michael_higgins. If you enjoyed these photo please head over to his profile and give him some likes and peer awards!
