From Behind The Lens

This weeks’ interview is with Cape Town based Lorinda Spies. I think you’re going to like her work as much as I do!

How do you describe your photographic style? Classic; timeless; elegant; telling a story/ photojournalistic approach; unique.  I try to capture the emotion/vibe of the day as well as those special moments.

How did you get into photography? After my first child was born I quit my full time office job.  I couldn’t sit still for long however and enrolled for my first photography course.  And the rest, as they say, is history!  Photography gives me flexible work hours and a way to express my creativity – something an office job could never offer me.  I wish I’d discovered my passion for photography long before I even contemplated an office job.  I’ve never enjoyed myself as much as I do now.

How long have you been photographing weddings? About 3 years.

Where are you based? Somerset West, Cape Town.

What has been the highlight of your career as a wedding photographer so far? Successfully establishing my new business in a very competitive and over-saturated market.

Which are your five favourite wedding photographs, and why?

How do you market yourself? I advertise my website through Google Ads, free advertising sites and directory services on the Internet and I’ve advertised on wedding websites (who list wedding service providers). And very importantly: word-of-mouth. 

What type of camera do you use? Sony Alpha 700

What would you love to add to your equipment? A nice macro lens, another telephoto lens, a few prime lenses…

How important is a tool like Photoshop in your work, and do you retouch at all? I like to keep my photographs as natural as possible, but I do however like to enhance/ improve/ perfect them with Lightroom and Corel Paint Shop Pro.  I don’t like Photoshop as much as it’s a bit too user unfriendly for my liking.  I do however use it for some special effects.

Which are your five favourite “outrageous” photographs and why? I don’t really have anything “outrageous” as that’s not exactly my style, but these two are quite amusing: 

The following are some of my favourite artistic shots:

If you could be invisible- with your camera- for a day, you would… be shooting wildlife in an exotic location!

What advice do you have for photographers who are just starting out? Be open to new ideas and creative influences, but stay true to yourself and your photographic style. Be willing to learn continually as you go along.

Where on the web can people find you? J & L Expressions, Facebook and LinkedIn

Where would you love to go for a wedding shoot? The Swiss Alps in winter time – with lots of snow!  I can just picture the mysterious bride with a cape and fur and pine trees drooping with snow, majestic mountain peaks…you get the picture?

Is there anything you’re learning to do?  At the moment I’m focusing my attention on my post-editing skills.  I’m constantly looking for fresh ideas and new techniques. And of course, having 2 toddlers, you learn every day as you go along!

What will you be up to in 2010? Expanding my business through hard work, going on a few weekend breaks where I can indulge in some landscape photography, revamping my garden and anything else that tickles my fancy…