I feel like I've made a lot of new friends through my Instagram. Each day I enjoy spending time getting lost in the images and finding inspiration .. there are so many amazing artists out there to admire. I recently had the pleasure to chat with this amazing artist Chris Schoonover (instagram & vsco). I love his photographs ... they are so bold and simple at the same time with subtle hidden messages. I asked Chris for a few pointers and insights and wanted to share with you all. I figured this was a great opportunity to introduce a new series I want to feature from time to time titled "Photo Makers." I also want to thank Chris for sharing and helping me kick off this new series.
Tell us a little about you?
My name is Chris Schoonover and I am a photographer based in New York City. I mostly take portraits of models and people from my life/travels.
How long have you been a photographer?
I've been a photographer since August 2013 when I got my first camera. Before that I was just using my phone.
What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of being a photographer?
I've gotten to work through a lot of my problems by taking photos. It takes my mind off of things for a while and I get to make something I like and can share with people. I think it gives me something to offer to people.
Where do you find your inspiration? What do you do to get inspired?
I find my inspiration a lot of times from other fashion and art photographers. I'm constantly looking at contemporary art photo books to get ideas. Tumblr is also one of my favorite places to find new and old photography.
What is your current fav topic to shoot and why?
Recently I've been working on a project with my brother where we are photographing pro wrestlers. It's been fun to see and learn about that subculture and photograph it in a way that's unfamiliar to the sport. I've also been photographing models In everyday situations and making it seem a bit dreamy. As long as it's aesthetically pleasing, I'll shoot it.
What is your fav camera lens or is there any specific equipment you love?
I shoot with a canon 5d mark 2, but I think my favorite would be my Fuji x100s. It's easy to carry around and takes away the burden of carrying around a ton of gear.
Do you have any simple tips or advice you could share to help be a better photographer?
Make sure you're always looking at other photographers work. You have to study so you know what has and hasn't been done. Go and take photos of things even if it makes you a bit uncomfortable. People like to look at things that are unfamiliar. Finally, take photos of things that you like. Don't worry about what everyone else is doing. Focus on what you are doing and make it count.
Thanks for stopping by ... hope you enjoy the inspiration ... ;)
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