Her book “The Art of Children’s Portrait Photography” is one of the top-selling books in the industry.

Several weeks ago Tamara sent me her new DVD – Inside Contemporary Children’s Photography and all I can say is WAY COOL! If you shoot kids this is a must watch, it will definitely take your photography to new heights. That’s all I’m going to say, you can watch the trailer here, which says it all.

Trailer – http://www.tamaralackeyblog.com/index.cfm?catID=35

Hi Tamara,

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am a woman.  I have a lovely family and some wonderful friends.  I photograph people for a living and have had some great luck with my career of choice.  I like to learn, and I like to teach.  I read a lot.  I believe most people are inherently good and often surprising. Or, rather, they often surprise me.  I get too self-focused when I over-schedule myself.  I am still looking for zen-like balance.

Where is home?

Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

If you could live anywhere on this awesome planet where would you build your dream home?

In a place where mosquitos don’t ever, ever visit.  Snakes would also enjoy staying away.  I think the rivers are made of chocolate.  But, still, no bugs are drawn to that river of chocolate.  It’s a wonderful place to create a dream home:)

What is your current state of mind before we continue with the interview?

I just finished running the WPPI gauntlet, so I’m slightly worn out.

Did you go to school to study photography?

I studied mass communications, art history and then went ahead and added an American literature/English degree, too.  So I studied art but not specifically photography.

How long have you been a photographer?

Seven years, professionally.

How long have you been a wedding/portrait photographer?

Seven years, professionally.

What or who got you started in wedding photography?

I initially started shooting just portraits and moved into wedding photography when I got excited about the idea of shooting it in a similar freeform style.

How would you describe your style?

I like to shoot authentically, so to respond very much to my particular subjects – that being said, I think my images are expressive and focus on the beauty in people.

How many weddings do you average per year?

I started out at 45/year but brought that down to 12 in 2009.  In 2010, I closed out bookings at 4 weddings.

How many portrait sessions do you average a year?

About 90-110/year

Do you have some recent images you can share with us?

What type of cameras do you shoot with?

Canon 1D Mark II and Canon 5D Mark II

What is your favourite photography accessory, other than your camera?

My genuine interest in people.

If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?

85mm 1.2.  I think the image quality is unmatched by other lenses I’ve used.

What lighting equipment do you take on a shoot?

I’ll have a video light with dimmer and on-camera flash ready if need be, but I usually shoot with just a single reflector.

Can you describe how and when you use flash, video light, reflectors and natural light during a wedding/portrait shoot?

I use video light when I am in a really tough lighting situation, and I need something extra – or when I am doing more creative night shooting.  I use flash very rarely, maybe just at receptions.  I use reflectors often, to even out shadowing and to enhance catch lights.

What is your favourite computer/editing accessory, other than your computer?

I don’t use additional hardware accessories.

How important is Photoshop in your final images?

I often consider an image only partially created at capture, and I like to use elements of Photoshop to finish what I saw when I shot the image.

What is your most used Photoshop tool, plug-in, action set etc.?

I think people work hard to make great products and should be recognized.

So … a healthy mix of actions (Kubota, totally RAD, and colorshift – as well as my own combinations) …

I actually just finished partnering with Kevin Kubota, co-creating the Tamara Lackey Style Book, a video & look-book post-processing walkthrough (also the first in the Kubota Artist Series guide).  I used his actions exclusively.  It was a lot of work to produce, but it’s coming together beautifully – and I really enjoy working with the entire Kubota team.

Are you a MAC or PC lover? MAC all the way.

Do you plan on buying any new equipment and if so what do you have your eyes on? Probably the iPad.  I don’t even know why.  That’s how good Apple is.

I finally feel I have mastered my Crash-Art workflow; can you briefly describe for the readers your photographic workflow after a wedding?

Sure – download everything and backup in 3 separate places, external drives, multi-terabyte photo server and DVD’s – then do inclusive editing by pulling my favorites into files, running actions on them and then dragging the finished images into lightroom for final crops and tweaking.

I use Queensberry albums, what wedding albums do you supply your clients with and do you design them yourself or outsource the design?

I use Asukabook albums often for portraits and Seldex albums, Cypress albums, and GraphiStudio albums for weddings.  After working with our designer for quite a while, we feel really comfortable about outsourcing the design.

How do you feel about cropping an image?

I don’t think that the type of format (medium or otherwise) camera I’m using is always the best orientation for every particular image I want to deliver, so I love having a crop tool at my disposal.

I choose photographers for these interviews because their work inspires me and gets my creative juices flowing, hence the interview. What gives you ideas and inspires you to create such amazing imagery?

This may sound a little odd, but I am particularly inspired by kindness.  By those who reach beyond themselves to help others, whether it is physically, emotionally, spiritually or otherwise.  When I see people give of themselves this way, it inspires me to find more within myself to give – and that translates directly to how much energy I direct, and nearly always then receive, back from my subject – offering a multitude of opportunities to capture amazing imagery.

What has been your most memorable assignment and why?

I made it a personal quest to photograph President Barack Obama shortly after he became a candidate.  I was able to do so and finally was hired by the campaign to photograph him  (and then Michelle Obama and Maya Angelou) on several different occasions, and it was pretty much a dream come true.  I think he was elected because of the photographs

If you could shoot a wedding with another photographer who would it be and why?

I got kinda gooey when I met Annie Liebowitz.  I’d still choose her.  I love how nakedly she is inspired by art history.

Do you have an assistant/2^nd shooter that accompanies you on assignments?

I always bring a 2^nd shooter to weddings, but I do not bring along an assistant on portrait sessions.

How many images do you average per wedding and how many do you usually present to your clients?

I shoot about 2500 or so and usually present between 800 – 1000, depending on the length of the day or whether it is weekend coverage, as well.

Where would be your dream destination wedding?

I’ve been lucky enough to shoot a couple of them.  My favorite was in Kona, Hawaii, a 4-day wedding shoot with some seriously lovely people who have since became close friends.

How do you make the bride and groom, bridal party etc… feel relaxed in front of your Canon 5D Mark II?

When it’s just a bride & groom, I focus a great deal on connecting with them and keeping the entire thing a very natural exchange between me and them and, most importantly, between the two of them.  With a bridal party, it’s typically a more festive thing.  I assure them this is going to be quick, painless, and that they’ll find this worth it later – and that usually wins them over more than any shining aspect of my personality.

Have you ever had anything go wrong at a wedding and if so, how did you handle it?

Yes.  I once missed the yacht that the wedding party was on – watched it pull out of the harbor as I pulled into the parking lot.  After asking several people at the dock for help, I located a gentleman who was willing to motorboat me out to the yacht for $100 in cash, with the understanding that he couldn’t actually get the yacht to stop for me.  As I jumped from one boat to the other, I was greeted by a round of applause by those watching from the upper deck.   Oddly enough, my mistake (originally going to the wrong yacht club) was translated to “look what she’ll do for the job”.  That was simply good luck.

What are your favourite images you have shot recently? Can you describe their creation in regards to location, lighting, composition, camera settings etc, also your thoughts when creating the images and what they mean to you?

I was teaching a shooting clinic just before WPPI in Las Vegas, and this sweet, very shy little girl was in front of me and about 20 people behind me with cameras.  I photographed this very sweet expression and then worked doubly hard to get her to trust me and open up with me, even despite the chaos of all the lenses around me.

This was the “after” shot, when she decided she could open up to me, and that adorable smile was worth the effort.

What do you feel is the most challenging thing about photographing weddings and children?

The most challenging thing about photographing both weddings and children is the time commitment.  When you are shooting both, you are then working all week and on weekends.  I don’t ever photograph portraits on weekends, unless it’s part of a destination portrait session, and I am shooting less weddings now to keep more weekends free.

What do you think of the wedding photography industry at the moment and where do you see it in 5 years from now?

I have seen the industry change a lot just in the last few years – brides are way more involved in photography blogs than they used to be, and it makes for interesting discussions when they know your friends and where your name has been mentioned on other photographer blogs.

I read recently that the wedding photography industry is expected to grow exponentially over the next 5-10 years.  I think if people are concerned that it is crowded now, it’ll just get more crowded in time.

A wedding photographer who inspires you?

Not necessarily a wedding photographer, but Mikael Jansson’s work is really lovely and has such a sharp editorial style.  I’d love to see a wedding covered with that eye.

It’s almost that time of year for a Tamara Lackey family portrait. Is there any photographer out there that you would be stoked to say – he/she took my portrait?

I actually have a family portrait trade coming up with Tina Wilson, so I’m looking forward to seeing what she captures.  And what I do, too.

A website and/or blog you visit often?

I keep up with quite a lot via twitter.

The first photographer that comes to your mind and why?

Sue Bryce, a New Zealander now living in Australia.  She photographed my new headshots when we were together in Vegas, and I really love her style of “beauty” photography, and I’m really happy with the images she captured of me.

The last workshop or seminar you attended and why?

Just wrapped up a workshop that I taught alongside Audrey Woulard in Las Vegas yesterday – a full day shooting clinic.

Do you have any workshops planned?

I am just about to announce a workshop in my studio for this September, as well as another one in the Northeast this fall.

I’m also in the process of planning a workshop in New Zealand and Australia towards the end of January, 2010.  I am really getting some fantastic advice on managing that from my friend Sally Sargood, who is a champion photography workshop organizer.  So … yes

What photographic organizations do you belong to?

WPPI, PPA, NAPCP and DWF.  I’m luckily quite fortunate to be involved with all the organizations, too.  I spoke at PPA’s Imaging USA and the WPPI Convention these last two years in a row, I’ll be the keynote speaker at NAPCP’s first annual retreat in Napa Valley this June, and I’ve recently agreed to be one of the “portrait experts” on DWF’s expanded site focus, as they focus on portraits, as well as weddings now.

One way you market Tamara Lackey Photography?

By far our best marketing is simply word-of-mouth referrals.  We are grateful for our clients’ enthusiasm.

Do you advertise? If so where?

We used to advertise more, but not really at all anymore.  I’m just now figuring out how to advertise a product.  I’m not sure I’m very good at it yet.  It’s like my DVD is selling in spite of my lack of advertising efforts.

How important is an awesome website for your business?

Considering how open our market is with destination portraits and weddings, it’s exceptionally important.

If not a photographer, I would have liked to be a marine biologist studying and photographing the great white shark. What would you have been?

I love writing and teaching, and luckily I get to do a great amount of that type of work as a photographer who … writes and teaches.

I realize that each great photographer has a particular penchant or love for photographing a particular subject whether it be nature, portraits, sea or landscapes, shadow and light, etc. as a result I would love to have you talk about and share whatever images you feel appropriate of your own private obsession in the magical world of photography.

I feel a strong connection to children who have been orphaned.  Two of my three children were adopted from orphanages in Ethiopia and Ecuador, and all proceeds from my book, The Art of Children’s Portrait Photography, go directly to the Worldwide Orphans Foundation and Save The Children.

These couple of images were taken at the orphanage where my daughter used to live, in Cuenca, Ecuador.  The first is her saying goodbye to the mother superior who ran the orphanage, and the second one is her friend, Andrea, who had to say goodbye to Ana Elisa and still lives there today.

Is there anybody or anything you would love to photograph?

I would have loved to taken a portrait of my grandmother who passed away when my father was two years old.  The photograph I do have of her intrigues me.

When I was 2^nd shooting I was picking everybody’s brain, I still am actually. That’s why I love these interviews so much. Every interview I learn something that makes me a better photographer. What advice do you have for somebody who wants to pursue wedding photography?

Keep doing and finding work that feels true to you.  It sounds trite, but it’s so exceptionally true:  don’t try to be anyone else.

That being said, don’t get so stuck being you that you don’t remember to grow as you.  It’s not difficult to find that your work is getting stale once you’ve found success.  Keep exploring your own work.

We know that each of us has someone or something, which inspires our life and work. Can you tell us the true basis of your inspiration?

I know I referred to this before, but I am often struck by genuine kindness.  That’s not the same as nice or polite or minding your manners – but people who truly care about being soft and careful with each other’s hearts.  Finding examples of this in my every day life, as well as in what I read and observe, is an endless source of inspiration to me.

Is there anything you would have done differently during your photographic career?

I devoted an entire chapter in my book to this:  “Yes, mistakes make you stronger, but go ahead and avoid these.”  I could probably add to it weekly 

Name a photographer you would like to take a portrait of?

Dane Sanders was showing me photographs of his children and his gorgeous wife when we got to spend time together this past week.  He’s a genuinely great friend, and I think it’d be lovely to photograph he and his beautiful family together.

Can you tell us little about your highly acclaimed Inside Contemporary Children’s Photography DVD?

It was about a year in the making, partnering up with Rex Ballard, the exceptionally talented Principal Cinematographer of Extreme Makeover:  Home Edition.  We wanted to create an instructional DVD that was much like “being there”, so we filmed a shoot in the studio, another in a client’s home and another on location and peppered that throughout a 90-minute full feature video that focuses on lighting, composition, posing, and workflow.  I’m so very happy with the end result.

If you could be invisible for one day with your camera…

If I’m invisible, can I also be concurrently visible?  Because, if so, I’d like to go back in time and photograph the more impactful moments of my life with those I care about in a true photojournalistic style, so I can have more detailed documentation than just my memories.

I’ve learned the most from… the painful parts of life.  Not that I’m requesting replays of any sort.

What talent would you most like to have?

The talent to see myself as others see me so as to better keep myself in check.  That would have to be a once-in-a-while thing, though.  I’d probably drive me nuts.

Something you’re still learning?

How to manage the delicate balance of keeping a heart wide open … but not taking too much to heart.

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

Who: my family.  They know that, too, which is incredibly important to me.  What:  the people in my life who have my back even after it’s not convenient for them.  I love, love that – people who are true, even when there is no benefit to them.

What is your greatest fear?

The loss of freedom.

Something that is overrated?

Sitting on the beach.  It always seems so great, but then I sit there for an hour, and I’m all done.

Something you’re saving up for?

My live-in personal masseuse.

What item do you wish you had designed?

The very first shoe.  An incredibly significant first design.

If you could have lunch with anyone who is famous who would it be?

Oh, he knows who he is.  And I have the restraining order to prove it

Your favourite film (movie) of all time?

Avatar absolutely skyrocketed up there.

Who would play you in a film (movie) of your life?

Veronica Lake.  When she was alive, of course.

First thing you would do if you won the lottery?

Get really nervous.  Doesn’t seem to be very good outcomes for those that do.  Rough track records, statistically.

Which five words would your friends use to describe you?

A friend says these (my comments follow).

1.  High-energy (true)

2.  Thoughtful.  (most of the time)

3.  Talented (some of the time)

4.  Quick-witted (I can’t think of anything clever to say about this. let me get back to you)

5.  Passionate (gets me in trouble more than I would’ve thought).

What ambitions have you not yet achieved?

I wanted to not just visit but genuinely spend time in all seven continents.  I hit all six a while ago and was even able to live in four of them – but Antarctica has eluded me thus far because I don’t want to go for just a week and need to really plan time around that.

What would you like to be doing in 5 years from now?

Probably living in Antarctica (see above).

And the last question, if you had one wish… That would we all feel strongly and safely connected to each other.  I think if we could accomplish this, it would take care of so many destructive behaviors and actions.

It’s our belief that we are so separate and removed from each other that triggers us to hurt, control, and defend.   As David Augsburger said, “Being heard is so close to being loved that, for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable.”

Oh one more, if someone said ‘how can I be the next Tamara Lackey?’ What would you say?

Um, really?  Have you thought that all the way through?

Your readers can find out more about me:

Website: www.tamaralackey.com

www.twitter.com/tamaralackey

www.facebook.com/tamaralackey

If you haven’t already, you should definitely do whatever it takes to attend one of Jesh’s workshops. They are highly acclaimed and definitely a life changing experience when it comes to unlocking, strengthening and growing the one who is responsible for your work: you. The workshops have helped many people grow artistically and personally. Enjoy the interview and I look forward to your comments.

NEWS - Jesh has just informed me that he will be hosting a workshop here in the UK (Manchester) on the 4th-6th May 2010. Full details here http://www.jeshderoxclients.com/MANCHESTER.jpg

Hi Jesh,

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

i’m an explorer, particularly fascinated with the invisible pieces of life.

Where is home?

i am based in Edmonton, Canada, but i carry home with me everywhere i go.

If you could live anywhere on this awesome planet where would you build your dream home?

in the sky. it’d be able to move at will, from slow speeds up to instantaneous. it’d be able to go underwater and into space, turn invisible and have the capability to move through solid matter undisturbed if need be.

What is your current state of mind before we continue with the interview?

peaceful.

Did you go to school to study photography?

no, not in the traditional sense.

How long have you been a photographer?

i began my exploration of the connection between people in love through photography in 2005.

What or who got you started in wedding photography?

the first few opportunities i had to take portraits of people getting married, i felt a peculiar and wonderful energy between them, and somehow it became caught in the image. that fascinated me. i decided to start a wedding photography business as a medium to explore this.

How would you describe your style?

experiential. this is a two-fold meaning. a) i want viewers not just to see my work, but to experience it, to be drawn into the movement of the moment like i was. b) it describes the state in which i work – losing my edges, my definitions, my labels, and interacting with the subject unbound and authentically – not creating, but discovering what is between us.

Do you have a few images you can share with us?

What type of cameras do you shoot with?

i have canon 5d mk II’s.

If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?

probably the 35m 1.4. i like shooting wide, and the lens feels good.

What lighting equipment do you take on a shoot?

i usually prefer available light, and don’t often take other equipment. i like to travel light & spare.

Can you describe how and when you use flash, video light, reflectors and natural light during a wedding?

typically, i use natural light through the entire wedding.

What is your favourite computer/editing accessory, other than your computer?

my iPhone. it’s a lot like the heart: i use it to connect with the people i love. it stores information and images of everything that’s most important to me in this world and it plays the most beautiful music. it’s versatile, expandable and has a lot more capacity than i generally use it for.

How important is Photoshop in your final images?

post-processing can be a potentially beautiful avenue for artistic expression. some of my images are heavily touched, some very lightly. the most important thing to me is the communication of the image. if i feel that can be enhanced with Photoshop, i am glad to use it.

What is your most used Photoshop tool, plug-in, action set etc.?

i initially created the ColorShift action set for myself. i ended up releasing it to others after so many people asked about my post-processing techniques, and to help fund my Beloved project. Note from Crash – These actions are brilliant and highly recommended. Check them out here ColorShift actions and textures.

Are you a MAC or PC lover?

macs are simply beautifully designed. i believe environment is much more important than most people give it credit for. i like to surround myself with as many beautiful things as possible.

Do you plan on buying any new equipment and if so what do you have your eyes on?

not in the foreseeable future. i believe there is a big focus on new equipment because it seems like an easy fix: ‘not excited about your work? must be the lens. or maybe a new camera.’

i think exploring is brilliant, and playing with new things is most always exciting, but at its root, inspiration is an internal issue.

i invest much more time and energy in discovering myself, who i am, and understanding how i experience life and what comes in between me and that experience. in so doing, i have learned things a million pounds worth of gadgetry never could have taught me.

I finally feel I have mastered my Crash-Art workflow, can you briefly describe for the readers your photographic workflow after a wedding?

a) i back up my work in three separate places, one off-site.

b) i edit in, which is to say, i only choose images that speak to me to add to my clients’ Collection.

c) i don’t show unedited work for the same reason directors don’t edit only part of a movie. every final image is individually worked in PS to some degree, with the purpose of creating a unified body of work that conveys a clear, powerful communication. i’ve designed a tool named WorldMix that helps me do this efficiently (it’s currently in development with my intention to release it to everyone).

d) i meet my clients eight to twelve weeks after the wedding for their Premiere. this is the first time they see their images, and the time we choose how to present their Collection.

How do you feel about cropping an image?

as i’ve said, the communication of the image is primary to me. if this is helped by cropping, i am glad to. i actually enjoy finding new crops of images, looking for things i didn’t see the first time through.

I choose photographers for these interviews because their work inspires me. What gives you ideas and inspires you to create such amazing imagery?

there is nothing more valuable, incredible or fascinating to me on this earth than the human heart. when you take a moment to consider all of the best moments of your life, you find it always plays a vital role.

the ability we have to feel moved by the gift & expressions of other people or the universe around us, the ability we have to move them in return,,, these are our single greatest gifts, providing the impetus for everything meaningful in our lives.

i love being around that kind of energy, and have spent my life learning how to invite it to come out and play,,,

words do no justice to express how much i have been affected by this endeavour.

What has been your most memorable assignment and why?

i am more focused on the internal, invisible worlds than the outer ones, my friend, they are the root of everything we see with our physical eyes. the truth is that most every time i work i follow what i see to its root and end up in the same mysterious place,,, wherever the heart is, wherever movement comes from,,, as i said, it is difficult to describe, much easier felt.

our languages have not yet evolved enough to encapsulate the complexities and intricacies of that place. i believe this is the purpose of artists: to add pieces to that collective language – the one that describes what is most important.

looking at a tree, your mind can separate each branch or leaf and individually measure or comment on it, but such separation is virtual. the truth is, as long as they are alive, they will always lead back to that same connected place.

talking about individual sessions is kind of like talking about individual leaves for me. when everything flows, we end up in this incredible shared place. this is what is part of what is so fascinating to me about the process, and why i have such a strong drive to continue exploration. how can all of these seemingly separate people be doors that lead back to the same place?

If you could shoot a wedding with another photographer who would it be and why?

Elliott Erwitt. his work has magnificent movement. i love being near people who have achieved that level of movement in their work because it denotes a high level of internal movement.

as i spoke of, our greatest gift is this ability to share from this authentic inner state,,, being near that kind of inner movement, unlocks you, quickens you.

technique? it’s language, semantics – an important part of the process of communication, but not the living part. tell me what moves you, what sets you on fire, tell me why. or show me. that i will grow from more than anything else you can say or do.

How many weddings do you shoot a year?

normally, i accept only 10 weddings a year.

Do you have an assistant/2^nd shooter that accompanies you on wedding assignments?

i often go alone. i love to get lost in what i’m doing, immersed, and i like as few distractions as possible. i have shot weddings with people before who work similarly, and this is a wonderful experience.

How many images do you average per wedding and how many do you usually present to your clients?

i often shoot around 1000 images on a wedding, and will narrow those down to the top 400 or so.

Where would be your dream destination wedding?

i’d love to experience a Sufi wedding in 13th century Persia with the poet Rumi officiating.

How do you make the bride and groom, bridal party etc… feel relaxed in front of your camera?

whatever i ask of the people i work with i have to be willing to give first. if i ask them to give me the most precious thing they have – the truth about themselves – i have to give it first myself.

i come to each session open, incredibly honoured to be with such rare creatures. out of six billion, no two are like these two.

we respond dynamically to the way we are treated, and we are treated based upon how we are seen, so, in the end, our entire life experience is directly rooted in our vision.

Have you ever had anything go wrong at a wedding and if so, how did you handle it?

right and wrong are matters of perspective. when i face unexpected challenges, i try to stay open and alert. this gives me the best chance of seeing whatever it is i can do that would be the most beneficial. my options are limited to the degree with which i’m investing my energy in being upset with what’s happened.

What do you feel is the most challenging thing about photographing weddings?

i believe it’s letting go of all the preconceived notions that we bring to the day, especially after having shot a lot. the people you work with are unique and individual and deserve to be seen that way, but it’s challenging for the mind which often prefers the well-treaded paths to the hard work it can be to explore the unpredictable unknown.

What do you think of the wedding photography industry at the moment and where do you see it in 5 years from now?

i think it’s in a beautiful state of growth. we’re seeing a huge and unprecedented influx of people into the industry which some experts are predicting could as much as double the total number of photographers over the next three years.

i believe it’s going to become increasingly important to those who want to thrive to be able to develop and express their unique voice and vision in their work.

i also see huge potential for photographers who continue exploring in the direction of inviting incredible client experience. the work i’ve been doing in the Beloved sessions, interacting authentically with those who commission me, has led to several thrilling and unexpected side affects, which have increasingly become focus of my work.

i believe it is possible a new genre of photography could emerge, focusing on the celebration, strengthening and renewal of relationship between people. photographers deliver a product whose purpose is to remind people of what is most important to them. when that service is provided at the shoot itself,,, a powerful combination of factors collide to create something truly beautiful.

i am told frequently by the people i work with that their experience with me enabled them to grow closer. some have described it as ‘finding’ each other again. quite a powerful thing to be able to offer people, with benefits that far outreach what size wall-print they order.

at the end of the day, photography is conversation. it’s up to you to decide the kind of conversation you want to have.

many people are caught up in ‘fake conversations’ because we practice them so often. their images portray those same insincere relationships. i think we have a beautiful opportunity to give something more.

i believe that the future of photography exists in the frontiers of the human heart, and the ones brave enough to explore it.

A wedding photographer who inspires you?

i am more inspired by people rather than photographers. as a man, Jerry Ghionis has honed himself into a brilliant, generous human being with an acute sense of aesthetic and fashion. all of that naturally comes through his images. his personal dedication and drive to pursue what he believes in is greatly inspiring to me.

all of the great artists i have met are very much their work. a fact that has not been lost on me.

It’s almost that time of year for a Jesh de Rox family portrait. Is there any photographer out there that you would be stoked to say – he/she took my portrait?

i would be intrigued to see myself through the eyes of Avedon. a striking vision.

A website and/or blog you visit often?

Twitter. a simple & beautiful tool.

The first photographer that comes to your mind and why?

you. because you invited me to be interviewed.

The last workshop or seminar you attended and why?

i attended Jerry Ghionis’s seminar in Nashville, which will probably have been the sixth or seventh time i’ve seen him speak. as i mentioned, he is a person of deep movement, so everything he does will carry that movement in it. it is a blessing to be around such people, and especially to be able to call them friend.

Do you have any workshops planned?

yes. i’m currently on a world tour with my life {as an artform} workshop, visiting over 22 cities. i’ll be in Manchester this May 4-6 and in Hamburg May 10-12 which represent my only European workshop offerings this year.

life {as an artform} is about the most important factor in both your business and your work: you.

participants of the workshop experience dynamic growth in their artistic, professional and personal lives that they would not have believed possible. even self-described skeptics,,, sometimes them particularly.

it continues to humble and amaze me, and i’m absolutely honoured to be a part of it. Workshop details here Enlighten workshops

What photographic organizations do you belong to?

i’m a member of WPPI, PPA, PPOC & DWF, and have met beautiful friends through each.

One way you market Jesh de Rox Photography?

word of mouth is by far my primary form of marketing. the trust relationships i build with the people i work with and the experience i provide them with are priceless in the continued thriving of my business.

Do you advertise? If so where?

no.

How important is an awesome website for your business?

i believe a strong web presence is vital in this day and age. the more true to self the website, the better match you’ll have with the clients it attracts.

If not a photographer, I would have liked to be a marine biologist studying the great white shark. What would you have been?

i am an artist, an explorer, a dreamer and a lover. the particular form those are expressed in is of lesser importance to me.

I realize that each great photographer has a particular penchant or love for photographing a particular subject whether it be nature, portraits, sea or landscapes, shadow and light, etc. as a result I would love to have you talk about and share whatever images you feel appropriate of your own private obsession in the magical world of photography.

to tell the truth, all of my work is personal work. i don’t do it any other way. life is too short to waste it doing things you’re not wild about.

my current focus is my Beloved project, which as i mentioned earlier is a movement aimed at the celebration and renewal of relationship, especially between couples who have been together for some time.

when people fall in love, they are number one in priority. everything else is shoved aside for them. as they are together longer, the way they see each other changes. what once was magical becomes ordinary, commonplace. this leads to a dramatic shift in the way they treat each other.

but it’s not their innate value that changes, rather it’s that they each become blind to it. the work that i do isn’t about creation so much as removing what is in the way. my work in these sessions has continued to produce intriguing results. it is my hope that others will take from what i have gathered so far and forge ahead.

i believe if couples were given a regular opportunity to re-see each other, re-experience the one they fell in love with, quality of life in the relationship would dynamically improve. and of course, the relationships closest to us have more affect on us than any other factor in our life.

i don’t think it’s far-fetched to say that if such a genre were established, and thousands of photographers around the world were offering such services, there would be a far-reaching, world-wide affect.

to my findings from the Beloved projects are one of the areas we explore in the life {as an artform} workshops.

When I was 2^nd shooting I was picking everybody’s brain, I still am actually. That’s why I love these interviews so much. Every interview I learn something that makes me a better photographer. What advice do you have for somebody who wants to pursue wedding photography?

find people whose work moves you and be willing to give them as much as you want to get from them. work hard to develop your business around who you are, not what is popular or trendy.

learning to become authentic is the single greatest thing you can do for yourself and your business. this is at the same time a very simple thing and a very complex one.

another way to describe it is inner alignment. you will know you are on key when people and circumstances important to your growth are drawn to you just at the right moment. when, as your foot touches the ground, you become suddenly aware your foot was always supposed to be in this specific place in this specific moment.

Is there anything you would have done differently during your photographic career?

no. i have learned as much or more from ‘failing’ as i have from ’succeeding’.

Name a photographer you would like to take a portrait of?

James Natchewey. i think he’d have a lot of incredible stories in him.

If you could be invisible for one day with your camera…

i would throw away the camera and spend an entire day revelling in how incredible it is to be invisible.

I’ve learned the most from…

spending time with people whom i admire, individuals who have become living expressions of the movement within them.

What talent would you most like to have?

the ability to love is the greatest talent i can imagine. i’m working hard at it.

Something you’re still learning?

to maintain control of my free will instead of becoming reactive during challenging circumstances.

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

this is a question answered many ways. ultimately everything i love is a beautiful piece and expression of the one great Love.

What is your greatest fear?

i don’t have one as such. something i seek to be constantly vigilant of is to not let blindness of the mind steal from my awareness what is most precious and important to me.

Something that is overrated?

’success’.

Something you’re saving up for?

my dream home. the aforementioned sky one.

What item do you wish you had designed?

the hoodie. what a gift to leave to the world.

If you could have lunch with anyone who is famous who would it be?

Hans Zimmer.

Where you’ll find me on a Friday night at 9 p.m.?

depends what timezone i’m in, lol

Your favourite film (movie) of all time?

5-way tie: eternal sunshine of the spotless mind / amelie / gladiator / avatar / zoolander

Who would play you in a film (movie) of your life?

robert downey jr. love that guy.

First thing you would do if you won the lottery?

give it to people who needed it more than i.

Which five words would your friends use to describe you?

not sure. just asked a friend, who said: ‘creative. loving. genuine. intelligent. hot.’ not all words i would have chosen, lol, but there you go (for instance, i would have gone with ridiculously-good-looking. does that count as one word?).

What ambition have you not yet achieved?

i would love to see a world class orchestra perform in concert.

What would you like to be doing in 5 years from now?

the same thing i am now: living a deeply joyful life surrounded with people i love and respect, working hard to bring my dreams from one world to the next, falling, getting back up again, stronger and wiser.

And the last question, if you had one wish…

it would be that those who read these words become vitally aware of the precious gift they are – the potential of which they have not yet begun to imagine – and their grand role in this great connective body that we are. that they would become brilliantly inspired to take whatever journey they must take to give that gift to the ones who have always been and are even now waiting for it.

Oh one more, if someone said ‘how can I be the next Jesh de Rox?’ What would you say?

answered literally, i would say it is of course a wiser thing to become the next you.

answered figuratively, i would say that everything it is possible to achieve is valueless without joy. follow joy more than achievements. it will lead you to the root of life, and bring you to everything it is important for you to discover.

Your readers can find out more about me:

Website: http://www.JeshdeRox.com/Enlighten (use the code ‘crash’ to save 15%)

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/JeshdeRox

Journal: http://jeshderoxweddings.blogspot.com/

A huge thanks to Professional Photographer magazine, Lastolite and Photoidentities for sponsoring the site.

This week I welcome Cherie Steinberg Coté. Cherie is an artistic photographer who absolutely loves photography and people. She is a good friend and, even better, from my hometown of Los Angeles. Her passion is contagious and she is always willing to help others succeed.  Cherie began her career as a photojournalist at The Toronto Sun newspaper in Canada; she had the distinction of being their first female photographer. She has won tons of prestigious awards and is a Getty Image Stock Photographer whose works are sold worldwide. Cherie was listed by Nikon as “one of the worlds great photographers.”   Her work has appeared in many magazines worldwide some of which include: Grace Ormonde, Nikon World,  Digital Photo Pro Magazine, Rangefinder Magazine, Bride & Bloom, Los Angeles Weddings amongst others. She runs CHERIEFOTO with her partner Hedley who is also an awesome photographer. Enjoy the interview and remember to leave a comment!

Hi Cherie,

Cherie and Hedley

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am an LA based wedding, boudoir and portrait photographer…..

Where is home?

Home is Los Angeles and Toronto…..

If you could live anywhere on this awesome planet where would you build your dream home?

I love this question….Is it a trick question?….OK I am still thinking…So far Jamaica, Lake Como, St Barts, Baja, St Marten, Monte Carlo and Los Angeles….

What is your current state of mind before we continue with the interview?

Well now that I have been dreaming about all the wonderful places I have travelled to gather the right info for the last question I feel pretty good….A lot came rushing back to me since I have travelled to 45 countries in the world…..

Did you go to school to study photography?

Yes and no….I took a course at my University just for fun…and had a hippie professor…..His direction was not really there…but I think looking back on it he also never took any creativity away from us…He let us just do our thing…..which as a photographer and an Aquarian I love when people just let me do my thing!!

How long have you been a photographer?

Oh do I have to answer that one….Well ok…20 years…..

How long have you been a wedding photographer?

7 serious years….

What or who got you started in wedding photography?

The New York Magazine….I saw a spread on wedding photography and was blown away….It was not what I thought wedding photography was all about..I think it might have been some great pictorial of Joe Buissink’s work…back then..and I was struck by the lighting…..

How would you describe your style?

Hmmm…I get asked that question a lot…and really do not have an answer for it…..I just shoot from the hip…..and the mood of the wedding and the girl…the day really dictates how I shoot…I never do the same thing twice…..kind of….I shoot with the mood…So maybe my style is Mood photography….

How many weddings do you average per year?

25 – 30

Do you have a few awesome images you can share with us?

What type of cameras do you shoot with?

I am a Nikon girl..and have been for a long time…..

I use the D3, D700 and the D300 – Lenses 50mm 1.4, 85mm 1.4, 35mm 2.0, 70-200mm 2.8, 105mm 2.8 macro, 60mm macro, 24-70mm 2.8, 14mm-24 2.8, shift lens

What is your favourite photography accessory, other than your camera?

My lipstick……Oh sorry my photography accessory….Alrighty then….I will get serious….My pain pills……kidding…My Lensbaby for obvious reasons…..

If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?

The 60mm macro…It has everything I need to shoot the entire wedding..I love close ups and I love shallow depth of field and if I add a flash I am good to go with that too….

What lighting equipment do you take on a shoot?

It totally depends on the shoot. For weddings I take Dynalite lights for the room and dancing, a few SB 800’s, Pocket Wizards, a Stroboframe and a few lenses….50mm, 60 mm, 105macro, 18-200mm to  name a few….

Can you describe how and when you use flash, video light, reflectors and natural light during a wedding?

I look at the situation I am in and what is in front of me and decide what is the best way to get the best results and that is the method I use…It is a split second decision…

What is your favourite computer/editing accessory, other than your computer?

I am a Mac girl…..and I do all my editing on my computer….in Iview and Lightroom

How important is Photoshop in your final images?

I am a stickler to try to do it in the camera and I spend a lot of my time learning more and more every day…and honing my skills…(That is the one thing I love the most about photography it is a never ending education) and with all that said….I use Photoshop to enhance only..some images are a 2 minute job only…But my fav images I will work on or my retoucher…and all my album pics are Photoshopped and retouched…..Some more than others…..I do like my pics to look real….and the ones that I really work at more of my own personal work……are obviously Photoshopped…..

What is your most used Photoshop tool, plug-in, action set etc.?

Nik Filters

Are you a MAC or PC lover?

Well what do u think Crash!!!…Love your name BTW!!

Do you plan on buying any new equipment and if so what do you have your eyes on?

New lenses..I want the 14-24 and the tilt shift lens…

I finally feel I have mastered my Crash-Art workflow, can you briefly describe for the readers your photographic workflow after a wedding?

I load every card to it own Iview catalogue…I pick the pics I want…I put them in a folder…The times are all correct I hope….…I put them in the right order….I rename them…Then I send them into lightroom and tweek them a bit….and pick out 50 of my favs….that I work on…..

I use Queensberry albums, what wedding albums do you supply your clients with and do you design them yourself or outsource the design?

I used to do the design and loved it but now I am to busy and I have been fortunate enough to have a great girl that I have been working with for a year and we have it down finally..It took so much time to train her to look at the work like I do…but it is worth it for me..I cannot afford the time now to sit and do the books myself…but I was never happy with companies doing the design I had to personalize it and make it my own….I use Graphi …and now I am starting to use Forbeyon….

How do you feel about cropping an image?

I do it very rarely..I am an in camera cropper!!! But with that said if it makes the image better it is kind of like plastic surgery…Hey go for it!!!

I choose photographers for these interviews because their work inspires me and gets my creative juices flowing, hence the interview. What gives you ideas and inspires you to create such amazing imagery?

Thanks Crash you inspire me too….I can be walking to get my mail and see a leaf on the ground and then it is in my shot…The nude of the girl against the great background that is what happened..The branch had fallen down from the tree and was in my path from my house to my studio..I picked it up..and it made the shot…This really happens to me all the time….or I see a location and make a note of it…One of my favorite shoots to date was my wonderful bride Anjale…Don’t you love her just because her name is Anjale..She was such a joy…I had gone on a drive exploring LA one day and happened upon a really cool bridge..and saw the place I wanted to do a shoot..I did not know what I wanted to shoot in that spot..but I loved the shot….After my Anjale wedding I asked her to dress up for me..and come out and have some fun…Hedley and myself and one makeup artist hit the bridge on a Sunday afternoon…and it was a shoot that everything was perfect…The sun was in the right spot yada yada yada….The bridge inspired me….Life inspires me..Girls inspire me…Shoes inspire me…Kids inspire me..dogs inspire me..old people inspire me…Inspiration is in my head….It is everywhere…really!!

What has been your most memorable assignment and why?

My most memorable assignment was with Nikon when they asked my partner Hedley and I to shoot the D700 brochure for them….It was really a dream assignment…They sent me a list of requirements and I had to come up with locations, ideas and make it all happen in a very short period of time…The adrenaline was flowing I have to admit and I really dig that…..I think that is why I like to shoot weddings….Anyway…the team from Japan and New York, Soichi, Mr. Shirasaka from Japan and Mike Corrado from the New York office…..were amazing people to meet and work with and it was kind of a love fest…we were all really into this work together and it was just such a major rush….I have done a few for very memorable shoots for Disney (how could you not love shooting for Disney) as well but Nikon is my #1…

If you could shoot a wedding with another photographer who would it be and why?

Probably the two big boys……Yervant and Jerry….They love girls..and the Brides and so do I and they would be so much fun……I love having fun and laughing at all shoots…..so I include weddings in that list…..I actually started shooting weddings to really have fun…and what better thing for a Jewish girl but to go to a party and make money doing it…!!

Do you have an assistant/2^nd shooter that accompanies you on wedding assignments?

My partner Hedley and I shoot all the weddings together and then we have assistants…

How many images do you average per wedding and how many do you usually present to your clients?

We shoot together about 2500 images and present about 1500..We kind of shoot like film…every image counts…..

Where would be your dream destination wedding?

The Isle of Capri

How do you make the bride and groom, bridal party etc… feel relaxed in front of your Nikon?

When I am in front of groups of people something happens because I have this camera in my hand….It is as if I become a comedian…It is as if the camera makes me funny and I just make people laugh….I actually really wanted to be a comedian when I was 5…..So this is just an extension of that…..and the camera is my license to do anything I want and go anywhere I want!!..I really love that part…..

Have you ever had anything go wrong at a wedding and if so, how did you handle it?

Is this a trick question Crash……Things go wrong like every second of a wedding it seems to me…..I always seem to be very in control and think fast and just handle things as they come up…and always look like I know what I am doing…..Haha…..It seems to work…I think being calm is a good policy…People really respond well to that and feel more secure….

What are your favourite three images you have shot recently? Can you describe their creation in regards to location, lighting, composition, camera settings etc, also your thoughts when creating the images and what they mean to you?

Wow this is a jam packed question and answer Crash!!

Three…This will take time to pick..I will get back to you….

Ok..done..

In the forest-I had a vision of this pic in my mind…so I created it…..D300 18-200, f6.3 1/25^th manual 400 iso, off camera flash.

Designer Dress…Was asked last minute to come over and shoot Isabella in her wedding dress….She is a celebrity in Mexico..and a darling person….D3, 35mm, 1/200^th f5.6, manual, 800 iso, video light…

The running bride…..At a wedding she was running I snapped it…D700, 1/80^th, iso 1250, 450 mm, f2.2, available florescent lights….

What do you feel is the most challenging thing about photographing weddings?

The most challenging thing for me is being up and on and full of energy for all the hours of the wedding and carrying so much stuff…..I have assistants but sometimes the moment is so now..and I have to have everything in my hand in a second so it is just easier to carry it all myself….

Also the lighting is the challenge as well as with all photography…At weddings I do take a set of Dynalites to use at the reception and sometimes I will take in a Photoflex light…depending on the wedding….

What do you think of the wedding photography industry at the moment and where do you see it in 5 years from now?

I am afraid to think of it in 5 years…..Everyone in the world will be a wedding photographer!!!

I see a lot of really bad photography and photographer’s doing weddings….and that will give the industry a bad name….Lots of horror stories…..which I hear all the time….BTW….Five years these days seems to be such a long time….

I will try to imagine….….There will be more movie making and taking stills from that…due to the amazing technology…..Weddings will still be around and lots of them…and there will be great competition….Because there are so many amazing wedding photographers….

And the quality of the imagery and the imagination will be wonderful to see unfold…Actually really exciting….

A wedding photographer who inspires you?

The usuals…..Elizabeth Messina, Yervant and Jerry!!!

It’s almost that time of year for a CHERIEFOTO family portrait. Is there any photographer out there that you would be stoked to say – he/she took my portrait?

August Bradley

Giuliano Bekor

Melvin Sokolsky

Jan Saudek

Howard Schatz

A website and/or blog you visit often?

Style Me Pretty and wedding type places…seeing lots of cool things from fashion to great photography….

The first photographer that comes to your mind and why?

Helmet Newton…..He was my hero….

The last workshop or seminar you attended and why?

A business workshop to learn how to do the business of photography…

I see you create cool borders and textures for photographers and also offer a retouching service. Can you tell us more about this?

I designed them for myself..and made them the way I wanted them to be…..after having a lot of trouble finding borders and edges that i liked..and that were easy to use….
so many people loved them so I decided to share them..they are super easy to use…anyone that has photoshop…..can use them….pro photographers and amateurs………people have been using them for awhile……and they are super easy to use…..and if u want to buy one..that is ok..or the entire collection..that is ok too…i always hated with these kind of things that I might have to buy a bunch of them and I really only wanted 2 of them…….so I made it for people to be able to buy only a few….check them out….

Retouching….
I have a small department…..for retouching….and I feel that for some things…it is really….important..here are a few before’s and afters……so u can see what I am talking about…..i especially use it for my boudoir, weddings and commercial….i think it is the difference between a good shot..and a great one….and we are all after great ones!!!

What photographic organizations do you belong to?

WPPI

One way you market CHERIEFOTO?

My clients refer me…..So I really keep in contact with them….They become like family…..And I am really nice to Wedding Planners…..and event people…… I try to be really nice actually to everyone!!!

Do you advertise? If so where?

Not really……….

How important is an awesome website for your business?

It is the soul of the business I think….It is the backbone of the business…It is the place where everyone loves to come and catch up…I find…..It is a calling card…..

If not a photographer, I would have liked to be a marine biologist studying the great white shark. What would you have been?

A back up dancer for Earth Wind and Fire!!!…. My second love is dance and music….

I realize that each great photographer has a particular penchant or love for photographing a particular subject whether it be nature, portraits, sea or landscapes, shadow and light, etc. as a result I would love to have you talk about and share whatever images you feel appropriate of your own private obsession in the magical world of photography.

I like to do pretty, sexy, mysterious pics….

I do not have a series or anything just random pics that I do when the feeling is there and the time is right……

Is there anybody or anything you would love to photograph?

I love spiritual beings on the planet…They inspire….So the Dalai Lama….would be of course a rush….I like shooting performers…. because they love the camera….and I love to shoot beautiful women in fabulous clothes…So like maybe all the Victoria Secret girls….or maybe even one of them….I also love to travel…..after travelling to over 40 countries in the world…that always is an amazing feeling…

All my travel work is a private collection…when I have time I will crack them out….

When I was 2^nd shooting I was picking everybody’s brain, I still am actually. That’s why I love these interviews so much. Every interview I learn something that makes me a better photographer. What advice do you have for somebody who wants to pursue wedding photography?

Learn your craft…..and women have to learn twice as much so they do not have to say…..”Well I don’t really know about that stuff….I am not really very technical”

We know that each of us has someone or something, which inspires our life and work. Can you tell us the true basis of your inspiration?

I love shooting people most of all so the true inspiration is making people feel really wonderful about themselves…and helping them discover the real essence of themselves…..right in front of me……I have had so many shoots where there is such a warm and loving feeling at the end between everyone that is there..and that is what I love the most….The connection….

Is there anything you would have done differently during your photographic career?

Oh we don’t have time for this one!!!

Name a photographer you would like to take a portrait of?

Karl Lagerfeld, Brad Pitt..He is also a photographer…I bet you did not know that….!!

Do you have any workshops on the horizon?

Working on a few things…..

If you could be invisible for one day with your camera… ..

Go to the Oscars or the Grammy’s….

I’ve learned the most from…

My Aunt Maria…..

What talent would you most like to have?

The art of persuasion…

Something you’re still learning?

How to be totally content…and then everything else….

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

I have a few…..Here are two…..My Dad and my partner Hedley

What is your greatest fear?

Losing my freedom….

Something that is overrated?

College Education…

Something you’re saving up for?

My dream studio and home….

What item do you wish you had designed?

Christina Louboutin Shoes and/or the Mac

If you could have lunch with anyone who is famous who would it be?

Sorry everyone but I guess it would have to be Brad Pitt……LOL

Where you’ll find me on a Friday night at 9 p.m.?

Hopefully drinking a cosmo at a really chic hip club in West Hollywood…OR in front of my computer….

Your favourite film (movie) of all time?

The Black Stallion…surprise…..You must love getting these interviews back!!!

Who would play you in a film (movie) of your life?

I was a dare devil in my youth and travelled around the world for 7 years…going to crazy interesting places….playing polo….things like that…..she has to be a super girl like maybe Uma Thurman…or Halle Berry..I loved her in Cat woman!!

First thing you would do if you won the lottery?

Go see my Dad…..and take him on a cool trip around the world……He is 89…..

Which five words would your friends use to describe you?

Hmmm….funny, generous, kind, creative and slightly high maintenance……

What ambition have you not yet achieved?

Making enough money to not care about it…..

What would you like to be doing in 5 years from now?

My hobbies photography and travel…

And the last question, if you had one wish…

I wish I would be totally content……

Oh one more, if someone said ‘how can I be the next Cherie Steinberg Coté? What would you say?

Learn your craft and be kind to everyone….

Your readers can find out more about me:

Website: http://www.cheriefoto.com

Blog: http://www.cheriefoto.com/blog

Borders and Edges for Photographers

http://www.edgygirl.com

Master Retouching:

310-358-8133