Interview with Stephen Densmore
Here is a recent interview that I did with Stephen Densmore, who is a lifestyle photographer out of Alberta.
How did you get your start as a photographer and what challenges did you face in the beginning?
I just bought a digital camera and brought it with me wherever I went. Watched lots of tutorials on YouTube and practiced them. I also worked with a friend doing stock photography and learned many of my Photoshop/studio skills from him.
The hardest challenge I have had starting up was knowing what to charge for my work and how to advertise when I didn’t have much to show.
In your opinion, what makes the good photo stand out from the average?
Careful editing (effects, filters, touch ups, etc.), expression of on peoples faces, and lighting
What does photography mean to you?
For me its more of a hobby as I do not do it for a living. Its something I use to go back and look at the cool places I have been and the things I have done/seen.
How important do you feel it is to connect with your subject?
Connecting with people when shooting will change will make all the difference in the world. They will look more natural, you will both have more fun, will both be more relaxed, and will be better able to think of creative things to do with them.
Locations and weather conditions are unpredictable, how you do handle the ever-changing condition?
Always have a back up location to shoot at if the weather turns bad. Especially at weddings!
Whose work has influenced you the most?
Christ Futcher, Crux Phiri (friends) and Chase Jarvis
What do you want your viewers to take away from your work?
I always am thinking of first impressions. What is the “wow” factor in this picture? What will the viewer remember from seeing this? I like them to realize how the everyday “normal” thing can look amazing.
When you are out shooting, how much of it is instinctual versus planned?
60% planned, 40% instinct
How much of a role has social medial played in your photography?
Social Media plays a big role with people pictures and I am constantly checking out other photographers, styles, and techniques to stay current.
What are some tips/advice you would give yourself if you were starting photography all over again?
Don’t do weddings without a second camera and second photographer.
Try to shadow and professional photographer, you will learn a ton!
Offer to do free shoots of people to get practice in.
Learn how to use strobe lights properly!
When possible though, use natural light.
Don’t rush a shoot. Take time to review the pictures on your camera screen. It’s small and easy to miss things!
Personal opinion but don’t use Sigma lenses for professional work.
What is one question no one ever asks you, but you wish they would?
Learn more about Stephen and see his work at www.stephendensmore.com
discoholicmusic
dailybridgerton
germansingergirl
izzy806
jacobvanloon
kianamaiart
stormborns
pixelskylines
ellievsbear
gummygunk