Photo by Scott Stulberg.
I was just looking through my portfolio this past week and physically cringing at how bad some of my old shots are. I almost deleted them from my Flickr stream, but then I realized that each photo represents a part of my photographic journey.
My photography evolved a lot from the days when I use to take pictures of Pez, cupcakes, and interesting trash I found in my back alley. It seems so silly now, but had I not spent everyday shooting, learning, and exploring the world with my camera, I wouldn’t be taking the pictures I am taking today.
Super hero Pez, Canon Xti, 50mm f/1.4 lens, 1/60, f/5.0, ISO 100.
I bought my first dSLR, the Canon Rebel Xti (400D), in November 2006. I had one lens other than the crappy kit one, the 50mm f/1.4, and I shot absolutely everything on it. From concerts to portraits to landscapes and nature I took that lens on many adventures. Unlike a zoom lens, a fixed prime lens forces you to physically position yourself to get the shot. That usually means getting up close, lying on the floor, or squeezing your body in crazy spots to get decent angles.
I spent almost a year shooting exclusively with the 50mm f/1.4. I couldn’t afford another lens, so I just had to make do with what I had. I think this forced me to learn the basics of photography (exposure, light & composition) and really know how to use my camera.
Xti, 50mm, f/1.4, 1/320, ISO 200.
I shot almost everyday. I went on photowalks and started shooting things around my neighbourhood, and the beautiful landscapes of Vancouver. Whenever I traveled abroad in the next year, I took thousands of pictures. Some were good, some were meh, but the sheer act of taking pictures everyday made me a better photographer.
Photographing Chichen Itza, Mayan Riviera, Mexico.
Because I only had one lens at the time, and no money to buy another one, I started renting lenses for specific shoots or just for fun. For $35, I could rent a $1500 70-200mm IS f/2.8 for an entire weekend. I rented everything from wide angles to macro lenses to honking zooms, experimenting with different subjects and styles of photography.
Sunset Flare, Xti, 70-200mm IS, 70mm, 1/250, f/7.1, ISO 200.
Polish dancing boots, Xti, 70-200mm IS f/2.8 lens, 153mm, 1/80, f/2.8, ISO 200.
Xti, 100mm f/2.8 lens, 1/80, f.2.8, ISO 100.
Xti, 70-200mm f/2.8, 1/500, f/5.6, ISO 200.
I didn’t read many “how to” photography books (too boring) or take classes (too expensive), I just spent hours on Flickr and other photographer’s blogs. I connected with these photographers, asked them questions, shared my photos, and studied theirs.
I learned what I needed to improve on and what style of photography I liked. I was immediately drawn to colour and magic hour light. The subject matter I found most intriguing was people. But, people were not as easy to come by as trash in my back alley.
Jessie Farrell, Canon Xti, 50mm f/1.4 lens, 1/30, f/1.4, ISO 100.
I begged everyone I knew to let me take pictures of them. And if they said no, I snuck candid shots when they weren’t looking. At the time, I was also spending a lot of time shooting Jessie Farrell (Canadian Singer/Songwriter) and her band on their first year touring Canada.
I followed them around snapping their performances, as well as the behind the scenes moments. I learned a lot about shooting in hectic places with really difficult lighting. This gig also connected me with other musicians who wanted promo photos for their websites and promotion.
Canadian Singer/Songwriter Kylee Epp, Xti, 50mm f/1.4.
Jesse Godin, Xti, 16-35mm f/2.8 lens, 18mm, 1/100, f/2.8, ISO 100.
When I couldn’t find any people to shoot, I photographed animals. When I was traveling in Australia, I took a series of “animal portraits” of the fabulous creatures I found. Again, I only had one lens with me, the 50mm f/1.4, so I really get up close to these animals to fill the frame. This was ok with koalas, kangaroos, and lorikeets, but not so much for man-eating crocodiles and sharks.
Rainbow lorikeet, Xti, 50mm f/1.4mm, 1/100, f/2.0, ISO 100.
Sleepy Kangaroo, 50mm f/1.4 lens, f/5.0, 1/250, ISO 100.
Koala. Xti, 50mm f/1.4 lens.
I also experimented taking artsy shots with the LensBaby Composer. I’m not the ‘artsiest’ photographer. I’m more inclined to make photos as realistic as possible, which is part of my debate with HDR photography (which I did learn how to do by the way :P). Nevertheless, this lens gave me a new perspective on the types of shots I could get with my camera.
XSi & LensBaby Composer.
My first HDR :P
After a while, I got bored of just taking pictures of things that I was just observing and wanted to create shots I could control. I was also modeling at the time, so I took particular interest at my own shoots and started grilling every photographer I worked with about lighting.
This is when I discovered David Hobby’s Strobist blog. The DIY off-camera photography he was doing and talking about was exciting, challenging, and oh so sexy.
Setting up the strobes for a summer shoot.
It took a while to accumulate the gear I needed to take sext shots; 3 strobes (580EX & 2×430EX, two umbrellas, stands, & the Alien Bees Cybersync Remote System), and a long while to actually learn how to use it.
I won’t lie, when I first started using strobes I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. I was even kind of scared of them, so I asked people who knew what they were doing, and watched and learned. I found a few settings that worked and practiced a lot. Once I’d learnt the basics, I started to experiment, sometimes even on the job (shh.. don’t tell), but usually taking pictures of myself.
Then, Alex Lindsay of TWiP (This Week in Photography) asked me to fly down to San Francisco be a guest on his popular photography podcast. I really felt like a n00b photographer then especially compared to one of my heroes, photojournalist, Steve Simon. I felt like I hadn’t done anything of note, just taken some nice photos. In fact, I’m sure that at first I was interviewed more for my modeling talents than my photography. My Flickr stream did contain more pictures of me than by me.
Xti, 50mm f/1.4 lens, 1/100, f/4, ISO 100.
Being on TWiP was a huge wake up call. I realized then, that if I wanted to be a photographer, I had to step up and know my stuff. I couldn’t rely on being a pretty girl with a camera that took pretty pictures. I had to get down and dirty with photographic theory, photoshop, the technical specs of my gear, and build a portfolio with content in a style that I wanted to actually work in.
I was inspired by photographers like Nick Onken, Chase Jarvis, Joe McNally who had unique and strong styles and got hired to to do major commercial work in this style.
Shauna, Canon XSi, 85mm f/1.8 lens, f/3.5, 1/200.
Canon XSi, 24-105mm f/4.0 lens, 45mm, 1/100, f/4.0, ISO 100.
Zara set-up shot.
I decided I wanted to shoot portraits, beauty, and fashion. I really needed models to shoot portraits, beauty, and fashion photography. I bought a second awesome prime, the 85mm f/1.8 and put up a profile on the social networking site “where professional models meet photographers, ModelMayhem. I’d found some great models to work with and I booked four for the next week. A Canon Canada Rep was nice enough to send a XSi (450D) loaner to me, so I had an extra body on these shoots.
Bella, Canon XSi, 85mm f/1.8 lens, 1/125, f/2.8, ISO 100.
I really wanted to push myself to see if I could actually create the images I wanted. After the first shoot, I realized I needed a professional makeup artist and a stylist because I am absolutely rubbish at these things. So I brought Mika (MUA) and Tami (Stylist) on board.
They helped me develop the concepts I wanted to shoot, and make sure all the details (hair, makeup, clothes) were there.
Sexy Stephanie, Xti, 85mm f/4.5, 1/125, ISO 100.
Canon Xti, 85 f/1.8 lens, 1/200. f/4.5, ISO 100.
I also knew I had to become fluent in Photoshop (CS4), so I buckled down and learnt how to use it. I spent days perfecting images, learning techniques, watching every retouching tutorial on Lynda.com and finding out the best and most efficient ways to retouch and process my images. Once I’d mastered the basics, I started to explore different processing styles.
I spend hours scouring photographer’s portfolios and flickr to find inspiring shots and trying to emulate them. Through this process I learnt all kinds of PS ninja tricks and started to develop my own style.
Xti, 50mm f/1.4 lens, f/2.5, 1/100, ISO 100.
I could shoot, light, and make sweet pictures. All I needed was a kick ass camera. I’d spent 2 great years with the Xti, but I’d grown out of it. I needed something full-framed and powerful, so I bought the Canon 5DMKII. I’ve never looked back.
Canon 5DMKII, 50mm f/1.4 lens, 1/125, f/5.0, ISO 100.
After 2 1/2 years, I feel like I’ve perfected amateur photography. Now, I’m ready to work as a professional. And so my next photographic journey begins! Wish me luck!
Canon 5DMkII, 85mm f/1.8 lens, 1/80, f/2.2, ISO 100.
5DMKII, 85mm f/1.8, 1/500 at f/5.0, ISO 100. Natural light & white reflector.
Visit my portfolio for more photos.
Questions? Comments! You know where to leave ‘em.
Marc said on August 14th, 2009 at 2:46 am
It’s great scrolling through these photos and watching your early photography morph into a kind of ‘über-photography’. :D
Just in the time that I’ve been following your blog, I’ve seen one heck of a photography journey. Well done, Lisa! Keep it up!
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Kate Day said on August 14th, 2009 at 4:02 am
Thanks Lisa, this is really interesting. Good luck – not that you’ll need it :)
Kate Day said on August 14th, 2009 at 4:03 am
Weird, I have a Gravatar account…. Still, nice little chap!
scott neumyer said on August 14th, 2009 at 4:49 am
Great shots and a great way to show your evolution as a photographer. Kudos!
Jônatan Fróes said on August 14th, 2009 at 4:50 am
good lucky!
Laurent said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:01 am
Hello Lisa
this post is very nice to read and very refreshing ! Your style is very good and you give hope to all other amateur who would have similar stories !
I wish you good luck !
Stefan said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:19 am
Great Pictures!
I love them!
—
http://twitter.com/stelten
love this post said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:21 am
your post is very inspiring. :) thank you for sharing. im actually stuck in a rut of being a newbie- for almost two years now. thanks :)
Ian said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:22 am
Lovely article and reassuring reading for others like myself currently on our own photographic journey. I especially love the pictue of “Canadian Singer/Songwriter Kylee Epp”, the lighting (given the situation) is outstanding!
Best wishes :)
love this post said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:25 am
maybe you can also post the kinds of filters that you use. and oh, the mandatory, “what’s in my gear bag” photo. :) please?
Dom said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:25 am
Great post, good luck – I’m on a similar journey, but taking longer :P
Robb Shirey said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:26 am
That was the longest post, but well worth the read. I’m curious why you chose (1) 580EXII and (2) 430’s? Was it the cost or is there a functional reason? I’m looking for a third flash to use behind the subject for a rim light.
Great post, you are about a year ahead of me in my photographic journey. I’m hoping to be where you are today. Great work!
Claude said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:27 am
Great post Lisa!
As a [very] amateur photographer I’ve looked at your work for inspiration, and look forward to reading more of your witty posts.
Thanks for sharing.
Mark said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:28 am
Awesome following your journey right from the early days Lisa. You’ve certainly inspired me and hopefully soon I’ll be joining the 5D Mark II club.
myphotographer said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:29 am
Nice pics, stoked I stopped by.
Will be back
Nick said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:40 am
Thanks for posting this. It’s a real inspiration. :-)
Sergio Muscat said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:40 am
Indeed very inspiring!
Marco said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:43 am
Thank you for this post Lisa, I really enjoy your pictures!!!
Tawcan said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:45 am
Great post, I started my photo journey about 1 year ago with the XSi, have learned so much since then.
Any reason why you’re shooting with prime lenses rather than a zoom? How did you find the 85 prime on a 1.6x camera?
Marco said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:49 am
Thank you for this post, I had a good time reading it. And I really appreciate your pictures!
Ben Drucker said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:49 am
When you say you’re becoming a professional, do you mean you are planning on opening a studio or building one in your home?
You have definitely morphed from a beginner to a professional very quickly. Reminds me very much of myself.
One thing I do have to scold you for… All this time, you’ve been holding the camera wrong. You don’t put your hand on top of the lens barrel. You grip it from the bottom. Check out this article: http://digital-photography-school.com/how-to-hold-a-digital-camera
I know the name sounds like it’s for newbies, but it would really help you to learn the right grip for an SLR, which would help you keep the camera more stable and give you sharper shots. It also makes your hands and wrists less tired when you’re shooting for a while.
remixoverdrive said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:51 am
This is awesome, and inspiring! Thank you for writing this post, and letting us share in your journey. I know I am still on that journey myself. =)
Kerry said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:55 am
Great, great article Lisa! Very cool, and informative.
kadajawi said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:59 am
Interesting journey :) You’ve really made a big progress. Good luck with your career!
I am kind of at the junction between available light and strobes too, but at the moment the price and effort behind using strobes is a bit scary. Not sure if I want to (ok, could) become a professional anyway.
Ps: Isn’t it frustrating the models when the photographer is better looking than they are?
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HeyHeyJK said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:03 am
Having graduated from college probably before you were born with a degree in still photography, I then only played around with it until this year when I lost my job in January. Now, at a youthful 50 years of age (no one believes I’m that old) I’m starting to go for photography full-time and your photos are always ones I go to for inspiration. Thanks for the awesome photos and for sharing them and your knowledge and experiences. You’re awesome!
Kevin Rye said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:08 am
You’re awesome. These pics are mostlyamazing!
John said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:15 am
Nice journey, thanks for sharing :)
John said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:18 am
Great post Lisa, great photos too. I can relate exactly with what you are saying about your earlier work, I think most photographers would agree that photography is a journey in fact someone said that to me the other day when we were talking about the exact same issue! Thanks for sharing this with us :-) Regards,
John
~~ http://www.twitter.com/jakphoto
paul said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:33 am
Nice! Good to see a step by step revelation of the visual art. I just dropped into HDR photography myself, and have been having fun using it with portraits. I did a shoot with a band and tone mapped all of the shots to give them that surreal, we’re the next best thing, kind of look. You can check ‘em out on my blog if you want ( http://www.thegoodlight.com/archives/471 ).
I love the use of sun flare in your shots, something I need to use a little bit more.
mark.kemp said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:38 am
A good read Lisa, thanks. You know, throughout all the shots though, you have The Knack, The Eye, whatever you wanna call it, and your shots reflect it. The rest is technique and refinement, but at core, a good shot is artistry :)
Good luck with your journey, look forward to seeing your future art!
Eric said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:42 am
that leaf with raindrops photo is CRAZY good. i’d LOVE to use that as my wallpaper on my MacBook Pro. any chance you could send me a 1920×1200 JPG? please. :)
MeM said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:44 am
Fantastic article but boy do I wish it was a narrated slideshow (hint hint). I’ve been following this “pretty girl with a camera” RSS feed since you started showing stuff on Flickr and to watch you grow is amazing.
I don’t aspire to be a professional, but I do want to be able to take amazing pictures and to see your progress is truly inspirational. You really are a photographer now.
Stephen Christian said on August 14th, 2009 at 6:57 am
Been following since you’re appearance on TWIT. I want to take better pictures and know taking more photo is key and learning to use my camera. However, I still don’t think I have the eye / know when a photo is good or bad (outside the obvisios – blurry, to light, to dark).
I’m a computer programmer so I can understand exactly what you mean, I look at old code and sometimes wonder what I was thinking. This is crap code I need to rewrite this but you don’t know that until you have the experience.
What I would love to hear from you is an explanation on what you feel is “wrong” with some of your old photos. Not to be cruel but help us see what you now see. What you would do different, so newbies like me can learn to imagine what we could get from a photo and then produce (or get the best results) that photo with our camera.
Keep up the great work.
Brandon Tucker said on August 14th, 2009 at 7:09 am
Aw, but I miss the Pez. :)
I really have enjoyed following your progress, I only really got into Photography about a year ago. I would like to move up in the world but I know that I have to get WAAAAAY better before I can. You laying out what you have done sort of helps me grasp what I need to do to better myself.
Thank you for being so open about your journey and good luck on the new journey.
Dan Shaw said on August 14th, 2009 at 7:14 am
Great post Lisa! Thanks for sharing your story. You have come a long way and I’m excited to see what is in store for you. Good luck!
Clint said on August 14th, 2009 at 7:16 am
The best photography quote I’ve ever heard is, “The camera looks both ways.” That’s what makes those old photos so valuable. I really enjoyed reading this because I started my photography journey about the same time you did with my 20D. I haven’t had the same success, but I enjoy where I’m at. Having two kids in the mean time doesn’t help cultivate the hobby much, either :-) It’s neat to see how things have “developed” for you…I suppose only the film guys will think that’s a pun.
Best wishes,
Clint
Anoli said on August 14th, 2009 at 7:30 am
Very cool post. How do you approach (beg) people to ask them to pose?
Craig Shipp said on August 14th, 2009 at 8:02 am
Lisa, I would wish you luck but my guess is you don’t need it. Your hard work and natural style will take you wherever you wish.
Carlo said on August 14th, 2009 at 8:24 am
Good Luck
Kathryn said on August 14th, 2009 at 8:46 am
Found you via TWIP and have been following with interest ever since. Great post. Very inspiring for those of us who are just starting up the learning curve ourselves. Best of luck to you on the next part of your journey!
Mike Lopez said on August 14th, 2009 at 8:52 am
Great stuff… I also go back and look at my portfolio of images and think of what was I thinking when I took that pictures. Very inspiring and I wish you the best.
MostlyLisas Photographic Journey | visuelleGedanken.de said on August 14th, 2009 at 8:55 am
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Desmond Williams said on August 14th, 2009 at 9:03 am
Thank you for sharing your journey. I too plan on walking a similar path so your story was very inspirational.
Joris said on August 14th, 2009 at 9:25 am
@kadajawi: Haha! Been asking myself the exact same thing! :)
@lisa: What a very inspiring post. I started getting more serious with photography just a year ago, but can already see some similarities with your story. I for myself have the huge advantage of having an incredibly talented and ambitious photographer as my father from whom I draw a lot if inspiration and advice as well as other photographey bloggers (such as you) and the other usual ressources.
I’ve got one question though: Have you ever tought of or even actually entered photography contests? In my opinion this is also a wonderful way of increasing one’s skills since you are confronted with certain criteria you have to think of and fulfill during your creative process. Those limitations have proven themselves to be very helpful for me, as they ensure that I can concentrate more thouroughly on the really important parts such as the message or emotion you want to get through to the viewer. What do you think?
Gary said on August 14th, 2009 at 9:26 am
Great article Lisa. Thanks for the inspiration. I’ve been shooting with the Canon Rebel XS for almost a year now and I’m thinking of upgrading already. Your pictures are really inspiring. :)
John harder said on August 14th, 2009 at 9:26 am
I can’t believe I was able to have the privilage to read that. Thank you for being so candid and sharing so many names, equipment, photos, sites,etc. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
Don Hendricks said on August 14th, 2009 at 9:29 am
What a great story of rapid progression from passion to profession.
You are cute, but its your humor and honesty that hooks us.
You have made my hobby shooting for informed, and my tolerance of previously unknown Canada is growing.
I hope all your dreams and desires in this medium and the others you seek will come true.
Don
Don Hendricks said on August 14th, 2009 at 9:30 am
What a great story of rapid progression from passion to profession.
You are cute, but its your humor and honesty that hooks us.
You have made my hobby shooting more informed, and my tolerance of previously unknown Canada is growing.
I hope all your dreams and desires in this medium and the others you seek will come true.
Don
Steve said on August 14th, 2009 at 9:59 am
What a great story! I really like how your photos tell the story as well as your words. Best wishes for the new career. I look forward to following the progress of your new business!
Morgan said on August 14th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
You’re kinda my hero.
=]
Phillip said on August 14th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Awesome Post! I enjoy your point of view on TWIP alot; I feel a great deal of empathy with your journey.. i’m going though a very similar one myself. I like your blog alot; keep up the good work
Mostly Lisa said on August 14th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
@Robb Shirey: It was a cost issue, but the 430EXs work great and they’re smaller and lighter which can be great if you want to travel light.
Mostly Lisa said on August 14th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
@Mark: w00t! I know you’re photography would take a giant leap with the 5DMkII. The detail you get with the 5D is totally worth it.
Mostly Lisa : Photography, Videos, & Geeky Stuff. » Entry » My … | Photography said on August 14th, 2009 at 2:46 pm
[...] outlayed bland shooting, learning, as well as exploring a universe … See some-more here: Mostly Lisa : Photography, Videos, & Geeky Stuff. » Entry » My … Share and [...]
Mostly Lisa said on August 14th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
@Tawcan: Prime lenses have better glass and are sharper. The 85mm is pretty long on a cropped camera. You can see in the Stephanie behind-the-scenes shots, how far I am from the subject. But it is a beautiful lens. Great for portraits if you have enough room.
Denis said on August 14th, 2009 at 3:02 pm
Very, very good job, thank’s for your pictures. You’ve made a great progression.
Joe C said on August 14th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
“A Canon Canada Rep was nice enough to send a XSi (450D) loaner to me, so I had an extra body on these shoots.”
Lisa, how did you managed to get Canon Canada to send you a XSi as a loaner to you?
Enrique said on August 14th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
Very inspiring. The fact that you’ve only been doing this for less than 3 years is incredible to me. Most people don’t get that good at photography in their lifetime, nevermind in 3 years. I bought my first D-SLR in February, hopefully I can acquire half the skill you have.
Craig Colvin said on August 14th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Great post! My journey has been similar, started about the same time, and I’ve been following your blog along the way, growing along with you. You have made tremendous progress. Thanks for sharing.
Chris said on August 14th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
Do you have tips or resources for shooting manual with a dslr? I know of the sunny 16 rule but the resources I have found only cover iso 100. I realize that much of learning to shoot manual is trial and error but a guide to get started would be nice.
Clavel said on August 14th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
Awesome article…and keep up the good work…will continue to follow & and see how you progress
Luke Turner said on August 14th, 2009 at 10:57 pm
Lisa, you’ve been an inspiration ever since you first started to appear on TWiP. Reading this post has made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
I’ve been shooting for almost a year, 90% on my 50mm 1.8. Just started to play with strobes… hardest part is finding people to shoot. I suppose it helps if you’re not naturally a shy person!
Thank you for this post, and keep up your amazing work!
Deris said on August 14th, 2009 at 11:50 pm
Wow.wow.! This amazing .i like it.!
John Szakmeister said on August 15th, 2009 at 3:13 am
I’ve only been following you on Flickr and Twitter for a short while, but you’ve been building an amazing portfolio. I love your style!
Thanks for sharing your history! I can actually afford more lenses, but I too have been just using a 50mm (only f/1.8 though) for the past 8 months or so. It’s taught me a lot, and I’d encourage others to do the same.
Good luck going pro, not that you’ll need it! :-)
Best of the Week #78 | X Design Blog said on August 15th, 2009 at 8:03 am
[...] My Photographic Journey [...]
ducho said on August 15th, 2009 at 9:44 am
Mamacita! que buena te vez en esta foto…
Xti, 50mm f/1.4 lens, 1/100, f/4, ISO 100.
keep shooting.. you re the best…
Mostly Lisa said on August 15th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
@love this post: The last time I was hanging at the TWiT Cottage I did a brief, “What’s in my bag?”, but I’ve never done a post, so I’ll add that to my to-do list!
@Ben Drucker: ha! Got me. I always grip it from the bottom unless I am using my left hand to block light to grab focus. I shoot a lot of back lit shots so I tend to use this method a lot. I’m not sure if there is another way to do this, other than get an assistant to shadow the light for me. If you know of a way I’d love to hear it!
bee said on August 15th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Wow, within this short time you really found your own style. I’m a bit jealous, I have to confess. But in a positive way. I now have this “I can do it, too”-feeling. Thanks for that!
Mostly Lisa said on August 15th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
@kadajawi: As you can see from most my set-up shots, you can get great shots using one strobe, a set of triggers, and a shoot through umbrella. You don’t need much. I suggest looking on Craigslist for used flashes. You’ll probably be able to find one way cheaper than in the store.
William said on August 15th, 2009 at 2:25 pm
I envy you. Good luck!
Mostly Lisa said on August 15th, 2009 at 2:28 pm
@MeM: good idea about the narrated slide show! i’ll try to do that soon.
@Stephen Christian: I think my number one complaint with my old photos is composition. And that is something you can definitely learn. My other complaint is that I didn’t know how to process my shots back then. Good processing can take a photo from dull to amazing. I think most of the magic in a photo comes in post. And if you are good with ze code, then surely you can figure out how to use PS! Good luck.
kadajawi said on August 15th, 2009 at 2:48 pm
@Lisa: Thanks :) I’m not in the US, but we have good forums for second hand camera gear, I will check that. Still a student though, but as soon as I earn some money :P
I agree, you can learn composition to a certain degree (there are people who just don’t get it, you need some talent for it too!). I think mostly you need to practise, as you said. I have taken about 22000 photos with my point and shoot and in the year that I owned my DSLR I’ve taken about 21000 photos or so. I’d like to say that I’ve improved with each photo, same goes to PS (although I am now almost exclusively using Lightroom).
Now I’m curious: How many photos have you taken Lisa?
Fotografie News, Links und mehr: Die Browserfruits | Digitale Fotografie Lernen - KWERFELDEIN - Martin Gommel said on August 15th, 2009 at 11:02 pm
[...] Spannend, wie Lisa ihre Geschichte mit der Kamera erzählt, die ein Jahr lang mit dem 50mm 1.4 unterwegs war und sich Stück [...]
Cathy LaFever said on August 16th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Thank you, Lisa, for inspiring me to learn and grow.
I am 6 months into my first DSLR and really appreciate your candor and wisdom. I wish you continued success and happiness.
My very best to you,
Cathy LaFever, Los Angeles, CA
James said on August 16th, 2009 at 9:57 pm
Hey! I just wanted to say I think you’re amazingly talented, and that I enjoy reading your blog. It’s really made me want to invest in a camera and start dabbling in the world of still photography!
Todd said on August 17th, 2009 at 12:16 am
Hi Lisa,
I’m on a similar Photographic Journey, though I was a Brooks Trained Photographer for the Navy. Most of my experience was from the front seats of A-6’s, F14’s and Helicopters and in the portrait studio but I got burned out on all that. Now I’m rediscovering my love of Photography with the recent purchase of the Canon 5D MarkII. I just need to start posting my pics on Flickr… do I make them smaller than 21mp?
Davide said on August 17th, 2009 at 10:55 am
It’s a while i’ve been following you
I really enjoy reading your adventures :)
Best of luck,
Davide, Pescara, Italy
Mostly Lisa said on August 17th, 2009 at 4:28 pm
@Joe C: A Canon rep found me through my blog and the newspaper I write for. I do a gadget column once a month, so I get loaners of all the new Canon cameras. I know. *huge perk of my job*
Mostly Lisa said on August 17th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
@Todd: I upload my shots on Flickr as max 1024 Width. Any bigger and they take ages to load, especially for people with slow internet connections.
Manoj said on August 17th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
Lisa, thank you for this post. As someone who only recently started taking pictures with a DSLR (Canon XSi), and who is also slightly overwhelmed by the amount of information that needs to be assimilated before you can take decent shots, this post really helps. It reassures me that everyone starts at the bottom, and you evolve into a good photographer. I’ve been following your posts for the better part of this year, and really appreciate you spending the time to help some of us who are not so experienced! I’m looking forward to reading more of your posts as I evolve into (hopefully) a decent photographer!
Cheers!
Manoj
ToddK said on August 18th, 2009 at 6:44 am
Lisa,
Thanks for sharing your journey. It is inspiring.
Rick RB said on August 18th, 2009 at 7:18 am
Lisa. Such an awesome story to read… you have made some great shots and I look forward to following your work in the future.
I currently have a bridge camera (or super zoom) Sony H50…would really love a DSLR (5dMk2 Please ..dream camera).. but as fund wont allow yet… I am looking to push myself to see what I can do with current equipment.. and to hopefully forge a name for myself as a future photographer. Its always interesting to read others journeys and to see how they have developed. Best of luck for the future.
Oh would love to see what you could do with the video mode on the 5Dmk2.
Regards
Rick
Tim said on August 18th, 2009 at 9:07 am
I stumbled upon your site through another site called 100 best photography web sites.
I almost clicked out of your site when I though, oh man…this is going to be about another woman talking about her kids, and her little Canon Rebel.
But I was pleasantly surprised to see such good shots and your presentation was pretty good too. It helps to have beautiful models to photograph I’ll tell ya that.
I can say after 10 years of photography, I’ve never had anyone loan me a camera body or lens.
You’re quite attractive and I would love hanging out with you going on photo shoots too.
I’ve tried to get other photographers earlier in the beginning to help me or let me shoot with them or tag a long or answer my questions but no one would go for it, guess I wasn’t “pretty enough”. HAHA
I use to be a cosmetologist and I did at one time like to shoot models from Mayhem, but I found that many women became dictatorial about the photos and not showing up for shoots.
One of the funny things is that I did my first photo shoot with a model with a point and shoot. The next camera I had was a Minolta 7i and then a Canon 20D, now I have a Canon 50D…just don’t have the $$$$ for a 5D MII and prime les’ so I also have had to rent.
Thanks for your story, feel free to drop me a line too.
Tim said on August 18th, 2009 at 9:13 am
@Tim: PS. I used a 50mm kit lens and 70-300mm Canon lens and got some pretty nice shots. But would love to have a few prime lens’ too.
Twitter me back @tcphotodesign_ or @tcphotodesign
Fotonews, Tipps und more | Objektief said on August 18th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
[...] #Eine sehr interresante Geschicht erzählt Lisa von mostlylisa.com. Titel: My Photographic Journey [...]
Joanna said on August 19th, 2009 at 8:55 am
Good luck with all your photographic journey you are starting! And thank you for sharing your experience and discoveries of what you have gone through, what it took to be where you are now. Very inspirational!
Thank you!
Johnny said on August 19th, 2009 at 8:04 pm
I feel silly repeating what others have said but i feel so strongly about your post that I must let you know about it. I, too, find your journey very inspiring. Your skills have grown by leaps and bounds. Your motivation and hard work are challenging to me. But most impressive of all is the self-awareness that pours from every paragraph you write. You have a tremendous gift. You know yourself, you’re honest with yourself, and you maintain a healthy perspective. That’s stuff that’ll be benefiting you and everyone you come in contact with long after your circumstances, looks, and any other transient things have long since changed. It’s an honor to even know OF you! Much success and happiness as you turn this exciting new corner in life.
Wes said on August 20th, 2009 at 8:21 am
I just bought a T1i to get into amateur photography, this was a very motivating post to just get out there and take photos. Thanks.
clarke thomas said on August 20th, 2009 at 4:31 pm
great storyline, I’ve followed a similar path. I learned on p&s & SLR cameras, & decided to jump head in on the DSLR front. Thankfully my job (at the time) fueled my ability to get a 5D MkII & a few lenses. I’m more of a landscape/travel photographer; for some reason don’t care too much to shoot people(know idea why). I’ve been following quite a few people on flickr, & have learned much from them….2 of them fueled my passion to get a a 16-35mm lens. (my favorite lens)
Brad Ruggles said on August 21st, 2009 at 7:15 am
Ok, I know you get this a lot but your pictures just plain ROCK! Every time I check back here I’m both inspired and depressed. Inspired…because you make it look so good and depressed…because I need to make more time to get out there and shoot.
Keep up the amazing work.
Brad Ruggles said on August 21st, 2009 at 7:17 am
Oh, I almost forgot…I saw you in a promo video the other day for a Tap Tap Tap iPhone app (say that fast 5 times). I was like, hey! It’s Mostly Lisa! I know her! You Internet celebrity you! ;-)
Jay said on August 21st, 2009 at 3:19 pm
Great Post, just a few weeks ago I went through you entire photostream! It was very inspirational since I’m new at photography. The Kangaroo shot is amazing. I also like your portrait work a lot. I just need to find people to practice on. My wife is running out of patience ;)
Mostly Lisa said on August 22nd, 2009 at 8:12 pm
@kadajawi: how many pictures have i taken? wow. a lot. that is for sure. I’m already up to 4,000 on my 5DMkII, 6,000 with my iPhone, 12,000 with my old Xti, and thousands of others on the loaner cameras I take. Not nearly as many as you though! :D
Mostly Lisa said on August 22nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm
@Jay: haha! it’s always hard to coax loved ones into posing for the camera. i like to carry sugary snacks in my camera back to lure them into my frame :P
Chris said on August 22nd, 2009 at 8:36 pm
You make me cry! You have gone on and are embarking on a journey I wish to achieve one day. <3
kadajawi said on August 23rd, 2009 at 3:13 am
Haha, yeah, I’ve been travelling a lot for a while (Finland, China and Southeast Asia) and tried some street photography, shooting from the hip etc..
If you want to take photos of friends and family members what I do is to sit there prepared with the camera and to take photos once in a while, while in a conversation for example. At first they are annoyed or pose for me (with one of those lovely fake smiles ;) ), but after a while they will me much more natural and don’t care about me taking photos, then I can really start, looking for interesting moments/faces. Of course that are different photos than those that Lisa makes, but I have made some photos that I’m proud of this way. Oh, and of course I’m using a 50mm f1.8 for this, and you can still try to find the best possible light/viewing angle (without flash).
Wow, 6000 with an iPhone is quite a lot too.
Robert (Happy) Hanna said on August 24th, 2009 at 8:51 pm
You have beauty in your eye, mind, walk, style, and photography, in my opinion – so it is not surprising to find it in your blog.
I am not financially able to commission you to come to Hawaii and do a shoot, or I would consider it.
If you are ever in Honolulu I will pose for you and your camera to your heart’s content. Photography has been a hobby all my life, but my profession was as a trial lawyer and appeals specialist based in New Mexico before I retired to Hawaii about six years ago. I think I might still be photogenic and Hawaii is Paradise..
You are cordially invited – ANYTIME.
Much Aloha
Robert (Happy) Hanna said on August 24th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
P S I just noticed I really need a ‘gravatar’
I hope you can help.
I will give you my ‘get out of jail free’ card.
If you haven’t at least visited in Hawaii – you could say that you have never really lived…
Fotografin Lisa Bettany | Objektief said on August 30th, 2009 at 10:48 am
[...] bin auf Lisa über ihren Blog mostlylisa.com gestoßen. In ihrem Beitrag My Photographic Journey erzählt sie, wie sie zur Fotografie gekommen ist. Echt hammer Fotos und den Beitrag sollte man [...]
zo said on August 31st, 2009 at 5:57 am
Fantastic write-up, thanks. I find myself in a very similar position where I’m realizing I need to take ‘the next step’ and experiment, fail, learn, etc.
I guess the only main difference is that I use a Nikon, but hey, whatever :)
Thanks again, I really love your style and your talent
-Lorenzo
Jessi said on September 1st, 2009 at 1:27 pm
You’ve improved so much! Thank you for sharing the journey with us. <3
Alex said on September 2nd, 2009 at 6:08 am
WOW!
You are awesome! Thanks for sharing your story, i was looking for somebody using off-camera flashes mounted on tripods for a long time. Now i know it’s possible.
Beautiful work!!! Congrats!
Alex
MarcW said on September 2nd, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Inspiring!!! Thanks for sharing.
Luke said on September 3rd, 2009 at 10:21 am
Liked your post. Some insight there that I hope will help me with my photography.
Had a question though about the Alien Bees Cybersync Remote System. How do you connect the receivers to your 430EX/580EX?
I’m using a single 430EX at the moment (looking for some cash to buy a 580EX) with a Cactus radio trigger, which isn’t hugely reliable. The 430EX doesn’t have a PC terminal though. Are you using a hotshoe adaptor?
I’m hoping the Cybersync system might be a cheaper alternative for me than going to PocketWizards.
Bill Bartmann- said on September 12th, 2009 at 2:11 pm
Excellent site, keep up the good work. I read a lot of blogs on a daily basis and for the most part, people lack substance but, I just wanted to make a quick comment to say I’m glad I found your blog. Thanks,
A definite great read…
- Bill Bartmann
Vivek Mohan said on September 14th, 2009 at 2:19 am
I am an amateur photographer “still” looking around for a “starting point” to kind of get outta my shell. Amazing portrait shots led me to your Flickr stream which in turn led me to your blog and I am so happy to be reading your photography journey at 2 AM on a Monday morning.
I couldn’t have asked for a better way to start my week.
Cheers,
Vivek
Victor Fernandez said on September 16th, 2009 at 2:59 pm
Good Luck from Spain…. Im in the same way ;-)
Nick said on September 20th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
So here I am laying in bed 12:44 am doing one last search on my iPhone. I’ve been pulling my hair out trying to get my site going. Not building it…deciding if I want to keep my studio work on a separate site than my personal work. Well I’m still undecided, but you have inspired me to figure it out already and shoot not ponder.
AGDM said on September 22nd, 2009 at 4:29 pm
This is one of the better articles on photography that I have read thus far. Thanks for sharing this.
I am struggling with a few things photographically but studying my rear off trying to learn it and hopefully grow in the process.
AGDM
Peter Schmidt said on November 13th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Awesome article, thanks for sharing.
I do like you blog about photography and it’s always an inspiration seeing your latest pictures.
You’ve really come a long way fast it seems. Keep up the good work.
Wish you the best.
Peter
yin said on November 15th, 2009 at 5:26 am
i’ve always been reading bout male photographers who started small and made it big. rarely ever female photographers.
thank you for this article. it’s really inspired me and made me realize that if i want to be somebody in this field, then i have to put in thrice the effort and really get myself out there. cant keep giving myself excuses to procrastinate and be afraid.
thank you for the inspiration and the motivation. :)
Justin Stark said on December 21st, 2009 at 3:14 am
“My first HDR :P”
The magical, staircase shot is outstanding.
JS
Photography « The MilDesigner said on December 24th, 2009 at 11:20 am
[...] and she’s pretty inspiring for those that want to get into photography. Her photographic journey in particular shows her start with photograpy and can be an inspiration for people that want to [...]
Roberto said on December 28th, 2009 at 10:42 pm
Hello Lisa,
Great post, very inspiring. I am in the same kind of journey, I just hope I can be like you some day.
Good luck.
Joepster said on December 29th, 2009 at 1:12 am
Wow. I am so inspired to take my photography up a notch! I am currently at the stage where I take everything with my 50mm f1.8 lens on my 400D. I absolutely love it and it truly does teach you the basics. I hope there’s a place around here that can also rent lenses since I too can’t afford another lens at this point. I will be subscribing to your site and will be looking forward to reading more and seeing more of your work! Great journey!
Thomas Tomchak said on December 29th, 2009 at 8:54 am
I’m so very inspired by you Lisa. Your comments and insights really helped me feel like I’m not only not alone in being overwhelmed by some of the things I have yet to learn, but that it is in fact possible!
Keep up the great work, I love reading the blog.
Tom
Dan said on December 30th, 2009 at 10:07 am
It becomes more inspiring the more I read it. Most times you don’t hear the journey people have to become the great photographers, artists, etc., so it’s really cool to see your story. Thanks again for sharing.
hp said on December 31st, 2009 at 3:58 am
Lisa,
You have very unique perspective in your photos. How did you the close shot of the Koala? I tried the 50mm focal length on my zoom lens of a koala at the zoo too and it turned out horrible. hahahha.
Best,
P.S. love the Rainbow lorikeet pic.
Jake Stapleton said on December 31st, 2009 at 9:33 am
Just finally got around to reading this post I have had it bookmarked for a while. What a great story of hard work and discipline. It further encourages me to pursue my interests in photography. Thanks for the open and honest sharing of your journey.
Christina Warren said on December 31st, 2009 at 10:48 am
Lisa,
LOVED the post — man — I’m so proud of all that you have accomplished. I desperately need some professional portraits or headshots done and if I thought I could afford you, I’d fly you into Atlanta myself.
Such great work. Take care and keep kicking ass!
Victor said on December 31st, 2009 at 11:32 am
Great read for the new year. Thanks for documenting your trajectory – great inspiration and food for thought. Could you share a bit of background about your Alien Bees? I’ve seen Pocket Wizards used aplenty – were they a consideration for you? I’m curious what remotes people use for my own education. Cheers.
Ariel Bendavid said on December 31st, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Great inspirational story. I really want to shoot and become better at photography.
Adam Nollmeyer said on December 31st, 2009 at 7:56 pm
Nice post Lisa. I’ve taken many of my flickr photos from years ago out of flickr sets and made some private. Yes it’s nice to look back and see where one has been.
It’s also nice to talk about the journey of being a photographer and pushing oneself to learn the craft more. I see a lot of strobist people get excited to be “flashing” yet the images look like crap… Then I’ll see their work later and it’s slowly getting better.
We’re all posers and it’s a process. Nice “year in review” post.
Later
@AcmePhoto
Jon-Mark said on January 3rd, 2010 at 3:34 am
Lisa, your work has matured and developed in such beautiful ways in the past year, I’m extremely impressed by your progress. You are an inspiration, good luck and well done.
If your photographic journey ever brings you over to Victoria, I would love to arrange a photowalk/photo project. Perhaps you have the reach to actually nudge along some kind of photo community here in Victoria, as it hardly seems to exist.
josh said on January 5th, 2010 at 3:34 pm
Thanks for sharing. So inspiring!
Christopher johnston said on January 8th, 2010 at 7:31 pm
The story of your journey is very inspiring. I’ve been shooting a lot with my point and shoot and I’ve decided its time to move to a better camera, once I find a way to pay for it. I’ve added you to my RSS feed and I will be reading all your post.
jaymz eberly said on January 18th, 2010 at 6:50 am
great story. makes me want to share my story, i love my story :)
also i heard the 50mm 1.4 had not as good glass as the cheaper 1.8 $99 50mm which i love to death :) but your pics are great with the 1.4 making think who started that rumor haha :)
thanks again! your blog is getting me to really want to update mine more often too :)
it is a blog like this that helps us grow, one mans junk is another mans treasure kinda thing too.. we might say i am not so proud of using this turkey pan anymore. but telling others can inspire and help others grow and then learn to teach us photographers who have been around the block that , hey dont be so picky .. be creative..try shooting against light.. try what they tell you not too.. you might learn something .. even it why it is true :)
jaymz
Teren said on January 19th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
I’d just like to say that your work is beyond stunning. Absolutely magical! Great work!
Cynthia said on January 20th, 2010 at 4:00 pm
Lisa just came across your blog …. very cool indeed.
Thanks so for sharing , and signed up almost immediately to Lyndia.com
Look forward to more
Take care
From down under
Samantha said on January 26th, 2010 at 11:46 am
Lisa – just discovered your blog, and love love love this post — it was really inspiring, especially as I have recently launched my photography business. I will definitely be frequenting and gaining inspiration from you, your photographs and your blog more often! Thanks so much for sharing!
Samantha