ViewBug community member KateLuber describes her style as dramatic and meticulous. But there’s also a soothing simplicity about her photos; an untold complex, but beautiful story. She puts great care in finding the right light and transforming something ordinary to the extraordinary and her portfolio consists of elegant ballerinas, happy, newly engaged couples and children discovering the world and much more. We wanted to know more about Luber’s inspiration, her love for photography and much more.
What inspired you to be a photographer?
I picked up photography when my daughter was born. I was fortunate to have a professional photographer in the family when I was young, so I have great images from my childhood. I couldn’t bear the thought that my children wouldn’t have the same quality images. I figured it would be cheaper to buy a camera and learn than to pay for monthly photo sessions.
What was your first camera and what do you shoot with today?
My first camera was a used Pentax K7. From that, I upgraded to a Canon 5D Mark II, and I now shoot with a Canon 5D Mark III.
When someone looks at your photos, what do you want them to take away from it?
I want people to see beauty in my photos. I like to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary and bring out the beauty in places and people.
What is it that you love about photography?
I love being able to make someone see their own beauty as well as the beauty in the ordinary locations they see around them on a daily basis. That abandoned lot on the side of the road that they pass every day has the best light; they never see that.
What has photography done for you?
Photography is my creative outlet. Since taking a break from ballet, I need another way to be creative. It has also helped me see the beauty around me. I look at the sunrise every day and really see how truly beautiful it is.
Do you try to be conceptual or do you prefer to show the feeling behind a photo?
Each photo is different for me. Sometimes I prefer a simple, beautiful headshot or portrait with the subject smiling at the camera. Sometimes I like to capture the mood of a location or person. It just depends on the aesthetic I’m pursuing in that moment.
How do you describe your style?
Dramatic and meticulous. I love deep, rich colors and dramatic lighting. I also love going over every inch of the photo and making sure it is technically sound and there is nothing in the frame that detracts from the main subject. I want just enough in the frame to tell the story without it being cluttered.
If you had to choose one lens to use which one would it be?
I would choose my 70-200. I have other lenses I really love, but I love the look of shooting at 200mm and it’s also extremely versatile.
What are your 3 tips for others who want to become better photographers?
My best advice is to seek critique and be open to the feedback you receive. A lot of people say they want critique and then get defensive when receiving it. Nearly all feedback has value. Of course, some feedback has more value or it more applicable to your goals, but every point made has worth. Also, view your own work with objectivity. Step away from the photo and look at it with someone else’s eyes. If someone else had created the photo, what advice would you give them? Lastly, shoot what you shoot naturally. I follow so many great photographers and really admire what they create. I’ve even tried to create images in their styles, but it never works. I can admire the work of someone else, but their style will never be my style, and mine will never be theirs. Embrace your own style.
Have you received negative feedback?
As someone who is meticulous in their work, the hardest thing anyone has ever said to me was that my work was sloppy. I really don’t think anyone could’ve said anything else that would’ve cut so deep. Looking back now, I still don’t think my work was sloppy, but my work is even more clean now.
What do you carry in your camera bag?
I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark III and several lenses. I generally prefer prime lenses, but I couldn’t part with my 70-200.
If you could have the gift of a great photographer who would it be and why?
My favorite photographer is Richard Avedon. I love the way he uses light in his photos. I also really admire documentary photographers. They’re about as far opposite of my style as you can get, but I really appreciate their ability to tell a story and capture a moment with chaos all around them.
What is the most common mistake you see people making when shooting these days?
It seems pretty basic, but I see so many photographers shooting with incorrect white balance. Proper white balance instantly makes a photo better and so many people shoot on auto white balance and never give it a second thought.
What is your dream location to shoot?
I would love to shoot in abandoned buildings. I don’t have a specific building; many appeal to me. I’d love an abandoned castle just as much as an abandoned factory. I love the juxtaposition of the decay of the building with a graceful dancer or elegant model.
How do you decide on where to shoot a photo?
The number one consideration for shooting locations is light. What does the light look like in that location at the time I will be shooting? If it’s not good, I won’t shoot there.
What is next for you? Any planned adventures with your camera?
I don’t currently have any planned adventures. I should remedy that.
What is your goal with your photography?
I don’t have an end goal. I always want to grow and get better, but that’s an ongoing goal. I don’t think I’ll ever get to a point, nor do I want to, where I’m done growing.
For more beautiful photos taken by KateLuber make sure to visit her profile and get inspired.
