Thanks for visiting my Blog Site. I often get a lot of questions from photographers about me and my business so I decided to answer some of those questions here. You can follow our photography adventures at benoline.com
How did you get started in photography?
I fell in love with photography in my 2nd year of College at TX State in San Marcos. I have a background in 3d Animation and video, but it wasn’t until I took my first darkroom class that I was hooked on photography. Every since then I have done everything in my power to learn and advance my knowledge of the art form… I entered photo contest and attended workshops to learn about lighting, editing and composition. I got involved with local photography groups that would meet-up and discuss photography and organize photo shoots. I learned a lot from my peers and that is why I try to give back when I can. If you are passionate about photography, than anything is possible. You just have to work hard and make it happen for yourself.
What kind of gear do you have?
It took me a long time to acquire the gear that I currently have. Here is a list of gear that I typically bring to every wedding I shoot.
- Canon 5d MarkII
- Canon 40d
- Canon Rebel Xt (Modified to shoot infrared)
- Canon G11
- 24-70mm 2.8
- 70-200mm 2.8 IS (butter)
- 50mm 1.4
- 10-22mm ef-s
- 100mm 2.8 IS macro
- 45mm 2.8 Tilt-Shift (love)
- 580 ex SpeedLite
- 430II ex SpeedLite
- 430 ex SpeedLite
- (2)Pocket Wizard PlusII (wireless triggers)
- (2)Pocket Wizard Flextt5
- (3) Light stands
- Umbrellas
- Shoot-Sac
What kind of gear would you suggest for a beginning photographer?
First of all… You need to pick a brand and stick to it… Research all the different camera manufacturers and make and educated decision based on Price, Features, Lens selection, and general feel. Go to the store and actually handle the cameras and see which one feels right.
Start with what you can afford… I started out with a Rebel XT and eventually moved up to a Full-Frame camera over time… Think about the lenses you would like to use in the future and make sure you have a clear upgrade path… Some of the cheaper lenses will not fit on a Full Frame, so if you plan on upgrading in the future make sure you invest in lens that will last.
LENSES ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN CAMERAS! Invest most of your money in the lenses… you will be happier in the future!
I love your style! What do you use to process your photos?
I try to keep my processing simple, I don’t want my editing style to be trendy or fashionable. I think a good photograph is accomplished with good composition, dynamic lighting and an interesting subject. I do %99 of my editing in Light Room, a VERY powerful tool that allows you to sort, manage, edit, publish, and print photos all in one clean package.
My standard edit involves some exposure compensation, (usually up) increase in contrast and decrease in clarity. I might increase the vibrancy a little and enhance the subject with some dodging and burning, but that’s about it… Sometimes I bring some photos into Photo Shop to add subtle textures and color shifts, but not much…
What are some things that are essential to running your business?
A good website is an absolute! I use WordPress blogging system (FREE) to run my Blog-Site. I used to have a Flash based site from Blue Domain but I found it to be very limiting and cumbersome. WordPress is the most customizable website system out there. I use the Pro Photo 2.0 Blog theme. It is the easiest, fastest and most versatile theme for WordPress. You need to have your own hosting server to run a custom theme in WordPress. There are plenty of companies out there that cost around $5-$7 per month…
Use my coupon code to get $10 off your new Pro Photo Blog Theme! BENGOD378
Studio Management is key to streamlining your business. I use Shoot-Q! And I LOVE it! I could not live without it. It helps me manage all my clients. It automatically sends e-mails, stores information about the job, allows me to sign contracts online, send invoices and take payments online. It has changed the way I run my business and gives me more time to focus on photography.
Networking is essential! You need to get out there and meet people! You never know when a friend of a friend of a friend is going to call you up. Meeting other photographers and local vendors is key to creating a successful network of referrals. Word of mouth is huge! Never burn bridges and always put your best face forward. Join local groups and volunteer your time and talent to local events and charities. MAKE CONNECTIONS!
There is no substitution for hard work and dedication. If you want to make things happen, you have to do it your self… don’t wait around for your big break… Work hard and it will pay off in the end. Don’t be afraid to fail… that’s when you will learn the most.
I would love to tag along to learn at one of your weddings! Are you hiring?
ALL my second shooters are WORKING PROFESSIONALS that already have experience with wedding photography. Sometimes I need assistants to help carry gear and assist with lighting but these are unpaid internships. A Wedding is one of the most important days in someones life… There is just no time for on the job training… If you have experience in assisting or second shooting than please fill out the form below and I will keep your information on file if I ever need anyone. Wedding Photography Assistant Form
