Featured ViewBug community member MichaelMatti shoots to inspire others to get out there and have their own adventures. Michael has so many incredible images, choosing just a few for this post was nearly impossible Give a warm welcome to MichaelMatti, enjoy!
What inspired you to be a photographer?
I think for me it was being able to capture the world around me and share experiences with others in a beautiful way.
What was your first camera and what do you shoot with today?
My first camera was some cheap Kodak point and shoot that I don't remember the model name of. After that camera, I got my first DSLR, a Canon Rebel XS. From that I upgraded to a Canon 60D and then to my current camera body, the Canon 5D Mark II
When someone looks at your photos, what do you want them to take away from it?
I hope people find inspiration when they look at my images. I want people to look at my photos and then want to go on their own adventures.
What is it that you love about photography?
I love how it connects people. I have met so many wonderful people through photography.
I also love how photography pushes me to explore new places.
What has photography done for you?
Photography has connected me with people. I have made so many friends through the world of photography. It has also pushed me to explore new places.
Do you try to be conceptual or do you prefer to show the feeling behind a photo?
I'm not much of a conceptual photographer. I tend to try to best capture the scene and feeling of a place.
How do you describe your style?
I find myself drawn to wide spaces and vibrant colors.
If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?
My 24-70mm f/2.8 because of its versatility. I can shoot wide landscapes as well as portraits with it. Being 2.8, I can also shoot the night sky with it.
What are your 3 tips for others who want to become better photographers?
Practice. The answer to this question could really be Practice, Practice, Practice.
Try shooting different things and pushing yourself creatively.
Experiment, both in your shooting and editing style.
How did you achieve your social media following? any tips for photographers who are trying to get more reach?
Consistency. You need to be consistent in the quality of your posts as well as the subject matter of your posts.
Raw vs jpg and why?
RAW. There is no comparison when it comes to image quality and being able to make adjustments to the image.
What do you carry in your camera bag?
Canon 5D Mark II, Canon 17-40 f/4, Canon 24-70 f/2.8, Canon 70-200 f/4, Intervalometer ,Filters ,Tripod, Spare CF cards and spare batteries, Headlamp ,Usually water and a few granola bars.
If you could have the gift of a great photographer who would it be and why?
Ansel Adams' ability to capture light and contrast. He did incredible things in the darkroom, I can only imagine what his skills could do in the digital darkroom.
What is the most common mistake you see people making when shooting these days?
Being too concerned with gear and not learning how to take full advantage of the camera you have. Learn to do the best you can with the gear you have and master that before you upgrade your gear.
What is your dream location to shoot?
On top of a mountain at sunset and then under a clear night sky.
As far as specific locations though, I'd love to get to Iceland and back to the Southwest here in the US.
What is next for you? Any planned adventures with your camera?
I'm always going on short trips here in the Pacific Northwest, so there are lots of those coming up. But as far as bigger trips, my next trip is to Costa Rica for 12 days in May.
What is your goal with your photography?
To inspire others to get out and have their own adventures.
Thank you so much MichaelMatt, this was super inspiring, keep up the great work!
