The Journey Begins
I started photography in February 2007. My other half – Peta was considering upgrading her SLR, so I suggested to her to get a digital instead. That way, she can take thousands of photos and delete the ones she doesn’t like. The cost of buying film was getting a bit too expensive.
We looked around a few places until she decided on the Canon 400D. It was on sale, so that made the temptation to buy it even better. To make things even more appetising, they had only 2 left and if we wanted to get it, they would give us a discount. So this put me in a bit of dilemma. I didn’t need a camera. After a bit of a chat and working out finances, I decided to get one. At this stage, I was still not 100%.
We picked up the cameras and my thoughts were pretty mixed. Excited cos I got a new toy to play with and doubtful cos I’m still not sure if buying a camera was a smart idea. I just thought I’ll make the most of it and enjoy it. Plus it could be something Peta and I can do together.
First thing I did was go through the manual. Then it was time to see what this camera can do. I took some shots on automatic mode and played around with the manual settings. But I had no idea what they meant – aperture, shutter speed and ISO.
Hobby Turns Into Passion
As time went by, I got more and more excited with the shots I am taking. A lot of people are telling me how good they are and so I decided to take things to the next level…I had to go manual.
At first it was a bit confusing going manual mode. I read several books and found one that is very informative. It was by John Hedgecoe – Basics in Photography. I learnt so much from that book and I really got into taking photos manually. You have more control over things. I also read a few photography magazines, joined communities and asked lots and lots of questions. Then I went out and practised.
From a very young age, art has been a part of my life. Photography became my artistic outlet.
I love photography and it is my dream to do it full-time. You start to see things differently. For me, I am very passionate about photography and I try to show that in my work. I’m hungry to learn something new and try different things. I look at professional photographers and find out how they take the shots and try to replicate it. In the process too, I am trying to find my own style.
There are 2 quotes I really love from 2 great masters:
The best camera is the one that’s with you. Every day.
~ Chase Jarvis (www.chasejarvis.com)
You don’t have to be the best. You just have to be better than last week.
~ Jerry Ghionis (www.jerryghionis.com)
Photography has changed my life and the way I see things. It will always be a part of me and I want to show the whole world my passion through my eyes. 