Page 56 - Demo

56 || FITNESS MAGAZINE || JANUARY 2016 photographers in the field. You know, I think we never stop learning and developing our skills. It has taken me years, but I wouldn%u2019t change a thing. It takes a while to create, and then it just clicks. Everything I have learned over the years, be it successes or failures has molded me into the photographer and individual I am today, and I am thankful for that!MFM: When you shoot are you focused on capturing everything in the camera and take your time or do you feel post production and today%u2019s technology will allow the same results in less time?DB: Anyone that knows me and has shot with me knows I put a lot of time into my shoots. I%u2019m meticulous about lighting, sets, ideas, and I never want the client to feel rushed. I want the shot done right for the client. If you don%u2019t capture the images correctly, you%u2019ll be putting more time in to making post production corrections and wasting time.MFM: What makes the good picture stand out from the average?DB: I think if someone truly loves what they do and are passionate about what they do, that passion makes them want to be more creative instead of telling someone, okay, go stand over by that wall and just clicking a photo. The time and effort you put into the posing, lighting, and ideas for the shoot will pay huge dividends in the end results and the clients definitely notice the time and effort that goes into creating a quality experience and results.MFM: Color vs. Black and White? Why one over the other?DB: I don%u2019t think you can have a specific choice of one over the other. It all depends on the look or concept you are trying to create for or with a client. At all of my shoots, I do a variety of both. If we are looking to create something more moody or edgy, then black and white works best. If we want something more vibrant, fun, sassy, or sexy, then color definitely fits!!MFM: Do you mentor other photographers or offer classes?DB: I do have assistants and interns that work with me from time to time. One of the local University Professors brings his students up for day visits a couple times a year. Usually from those students I will bring someone on as an assistant or intern. Its a great way to learn and its how I learned. I don%u2019t offer classes%u2026.yet :-) But I have taught at Colleges in the Chicago area.MFM: You have a studio in Chicago; can you describe your typical photoshoot day?DB: Those that have booked or worked with me know that the photoshoot day is all about the client. My main goal is to make it a memorable, fun, and exciting experience for anyone that walks through the studio doors. I don%u2019t ever want the client to feel rushed or hurried, after all they are making an investment in a photoshoot, and if they think highly enough of my work to book with me, they get my undivided attention. Prior to the shoot, we have already discussed shoot ideas and concepts, the amount of looks we want to do, the approximate length of the shoot, and how many make-up and hair looks. I%u2019m a firm believer in talking to the client as much as necessary prior the shoot to make sure we have all our ducks in a row. I also know that those discussions build a rapport and comfort level prior to the shoot.