Lensbaby Unplugged Member of the Week
Interview with Laura Rivera
Q: What is your favorite shoot you've ever done?
A: All of them are my favorites--there is something unexpected and special in each one as long as you look well enough.
Q: What inspires you to reach for your camera?
Q: What are your favorite Lensbaby Lenses to use in your session?
A: I love taking the Trio 28 out and about because it is so versatile and also I just love wide-angle lenses. The Sol 45 too--so lightweight that I love carrying it. The Burnside is great because it always seems to add a bit of unexpected character to the shot (even if there is no obvious twist). And when I need a challenge, the pinhole/zone plate is always there for me! Really, all of the Lensbaby lenses I have always add an emotional depth to my shots that wouldn't be there otherwise! That's why I love them! Who needs to see yet another perfectly exposed, tack-sharp photo? Yawn. My iPhone does that.
Q: How did you hear about Lensbaby, and what encouraged you to purchase a LB lens?
A: First, I saw some photos on Flickr that intrigued me. But those were with the early lenses and although I liked the effect a lot, I wasn't ready for all my photos to have the same look/effect to them. So I waited. Then I got a new digital camera (had grown up on film) and found that everything I shot seemed cold and sterile. At the same time the Velvet 56 came out and that seemed more versatile. So that was my first Lensbaby purchase!
Q:What was your journey to becoming a photographer like?
A: Kinda simple: my dad photographed all the time and een had a darkroom in our finished basement. I grew up around his cameras and photos.
Q: What is your favorite subject to photograph and how would you describe your photography style?
A: I love still life. I shoot what I want, but don't know how to describe my style. Everyone else just calls it "weird." :)
Q: What do you love the most about photography?
A: The chance to be creative is very healing. It's my therapy.
Q: What helps you when you're struggling with a creative block?
A: Trying to make a copy of a photo I appreciate--my own self sneaks in somehow and suddenly I feel creative again.
Q: Would you consider yourself an adventurous photographer, or do you tend to stay in your comfort zone?
A: I like to try new things. I don't consider myself adventurous, but I don't limit myself either. I am always asking, "what would happen if..."
Q: What else would you like to see from Lensbaby in the future?
A: More basic education on how to select a lens and how to focus a manual lens. Also more "mentors" about getting the look you want that is your own style instead of ambassadors whom everyone tries to copy.