I think the mark of a great anything is the aspirations to be greater. I mean, who stops just when the going get good? If you climb mountains, you have this drive and desire to climb higher mountains. I think that great people who settle aren’t really all that great…and that’s why when I achieve goals, I make it a point to become better…it’s really a never-ending journey. And I’m alright with that.
I also think that some of my heros, photographically speaking, make me want to be better. So I thought I would list a few of my photo-idols, if you will. Maybe you can see a little of their inspiration in my work? And then maybe I suck so much that you can’t. But nevertheless, here they are…in no particular order…
The first, would have to be a long-time favorite of mine. Fred Egan has been the epitome of who I’d like to become as a wedding photographer. The hugest thing for me, aside from his technique, is the way he captures personalities. When he gets couples together, the photos he takes make you feel like you know them. Bright colors, open and airy, contrasty and outside-the-box…Fred hits his mark everytime. He’s also a music lover, which I can definitely get behind. Check out his blog too…
The second, whom I found through Fred, is a commercial/lifestyle photographer named Nick Onken. Again, Nick captures priceless moments with a very open and light technique. The ability to take photos with very little equipment and a good eye is rare these days…but he definitely is the definition of a lifestyle photographer.
It takes a lot of patience and a great and talented eye to capture the beauty of children and newborns. I have done only one shoot with a 1-year old and let me tell you…you thought 20-something models were difficult to work with! (just kidding…I love you all!!). But jeez, kids are so…unpredictable. I don’t know how Anne Geddes does it. But Anne isn’t really the one on the list…even though her work is phenomenal, so I guess she’s sort of on the list…
The photographer I am speaking of is a gal by the name of Molly Hilton. I actually stumbled onto her work by accident…but she’s local shooter at that. Gotta rep SD, baby! Her work is seriously amazing…so I recommend you check it out. She captures the beauty and innocence of children and it’s really pretty cool.
In another realm, a few photographers who I really admire technically are glamour photographers. Totally different look, different equipment, different technique and mindset…but still a very polished look. Johnny Crosslin’s lighting techniques, warm tones, and superb composition really yield amazing results…and it doesn’t hurt that his models are stunningly beautiful.
Chad Martel from Florida also has some amazing models…and his outside-the-box composition style and flair makes his photos eye-catching and unforgettable.
Justin Price, another glamour photographer…effing kicks booty. His shots absolutely rock…and I am continually amazed with every shot he takes.
On the commercial side of things, I highly respect the work of photographer Jeremy Cowart. He’s been shooting musicians, celebrities, and other notables with a really unique style and flair. His work is totally unreal…sort of along the lines of Dave Hill, who is also another amazing commercial photographer. Check him out as well.
Anyway, there you have it. I will probably be adding to this list down the road…but know that these guys rock.
Hey, it’s interesting to know who you consider to be a good photographer. I can really see their influence in your work and it’s fun to see how you put your own spin on things. I have to say…you are a great photographer and I hope that you know that.