Interview: Photographer Richard W Sharp Jr (USA)

Can you tell us a little about you?

Born and raised in Sothern California, I started photographing beach, desert, and mountain scenery in the late 1980’s. In the early 1990’s I moved to Missouri, settled in, and eventually had three wonderful, and talented children,

How and when did you get into photography?

Photography sparked my interest, as my stepfather was deeply passionate about his photography, and took time out of his day to teach me the technical aspects of camera settings, natural lighting, and filters.

What does photography mean to you?

Capturing moments for others and seeing their expressions as the images come straight out of camera, is rewarding. Knowing my captures can make a person smile is the keeps the soul healthy.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

Monochrome captures, utilizing careful placement of lighting, along with choosing wardrobe and accessories, having a uniqueness to the model is my style. Also, hours upon hours of collaboration with the client/model, is the key to priceless captures.

Where do you get inspiration from?

Inspirations come in many forms. From movies, magazines, to an idea that suddenly comes to mind.

Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?

Planning a shoot in advance is a must. A carefully, well planned photoshoot, yields the best captures. One of my photoshoots, took approximately two months to plan, and involved approximately thirty-five hours of photographer/model collaboration.

Studio, on location or both?

Both, small home studio, and on location are currently my setups. On location, at a fair ground, school, etc., requires little to no lighting setup. Whereas, studio, there’s at least 3 hours of preparation time involved before the shoot.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Since photography doesn’t bring in more than 75% of my earnings, I am considered a hobbyist. Hobbyist allows more control of the overall photoshoots, and permits creativity of both photographer and client to flourish.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

Favorite, and most moving captures, is when I photograph my daughter. All the planning and work we do together, and then seeing the end result of the effort, is a feeling words cannot describe.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Canon Rebel T7, Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 ST

What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?

Follow your dream: Create, and inspire! Igniting an emotional response within your viewer, is your goal as a photographer.

What do you think of our new magazine?

Modellenland Magazine, a nonprofit magazine, and free access to such a carefully, and well organized magazine is very rare. The amount of time sacrificed to produce a high quality magazine is very giving. The magazine showcases not only professional photographers and models, but hobbyist as well, which is great for people entering into the industries.

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