Soft, dreamy, feminine, whimsical ~ Three words that perfectly describe her photography. Perhaps you may have been to her blog, where she posts her beautiful polaroids and happenings in her life and home. I am so happy that she agreed to do an interview with me and I am excited to offer 2 winners their choice of print from Rachel's Etsy shop.
Here is my interview with photographer Rachel Ballard. You can read more about the giveaway after:)
Here is my interview with photographer Rachel Ballard. You can read more about the giveaway after:)
How did you get into photography?
I became interested in photography as a child. My grandparents always had a camera out- and my grandpa took tons and tons of polaroids.
Did you take up a formal education in photography?
I did take photography courses at my university, but I majored in French.
In three to five words, how would you describe your work?
Soft, dreamy, feminine, whimsical.
ephemeral flowers, ephemeral no more
Which one is your most favorite or most memorable photo?
That is so hard. I have a hard time choosing between some of my carnival photos- and some of the flowers. I just can't decide!
What type of photography do you like to do best?
I like to be taken to another place and time when I look at photographs. So probably images with a nostalgic feel.
carnival shots that take you back in time
What kind of equipment do you use?
Polaroid 680, Canon digital and film, numerous vintage cameras, a Holga and a Diana.
What is your personal view on computer manipulation or digital enhancement?
I think that using software to enhance or even change completely the original look of a photo is a completely personal choice. I enjoy using photoshop sometimes, and I think it can be a useful tool in creating one's own art.
What/who are your favorite subjects to photograph?
I can't help it- my children. I can't get enough of photographing them. Next would be carnivals, and flowers.
her children, her inspiration
a truly adorable bunch
What are your least favorite subjects?
Staged portraits. You know the kind that the parents want from a wedding. I find it difficult to be creative with those.
If you were not a photographer today, what career would you have pursued?
Possibly translating on a corporate level.
Do you remember the first photo you sold? Was it hard for you to let it go?
It was a photograph of a tiger lily. I did have a hard time selling it! It took me along time to get used to the idea of my work on someone else's wall.
every girl dreams
What is your dream photoshoot that you still have to do?
Wow. I think i would have to say shooting a live model in Paris.
If you can travel anywhere for a photoshoot, where would it be?
Again, here I go with the Paris. : )
there's no pretenses here
What do you enjoy most about being a photographer?
Creating images that make people smile when they see them.
What do you dislike most about your job?
The occasional job that takes most of the creativity out of my work. Perhaps headshots.
What is your idea of beauty?
That is almost impossible to explain! Beauty, in my mind, comes from many places. In the unusual, in the heart- when I see something and immediately feel the need to photograph it, whatever it is, that is beauty to me.
Who are your inspirations?
My family, a handful of other photographer's work, literature, old 8mm movies- and the polaroids that my grandpa took when I was a kid.
"Beauty, in my mind, comes from many places. In the unusual, in the heart- when I see something and immediately feel the need to photograph it, whatever it is, that is beauty to me..." - Rachel B.
Do you have any advice for aspiring photographers?
Do it. Don't wait. Don't try to have the perfect camera or the perfect timing. Learn your camera inside and out, and go for it.
~*~*~*~
I truly love the kind of photography that Rachel Ballard does. It is unpretentious, natural, and yes, dreamy! Thank you Rachel B. for sharing with us your passion. Discover more of her photography at flickr, and her Etsy shop. You can also sign up for a photography E-course here.
And now for the giveaway. I will choose 2 winners via Random.org on April 18, Sunday. The winners will be announced on April 19, Monday so please come back to see!
First, you must be a Follower to join. If you are not yet following this blog, just click on the Follow button found at the sidebar. Next, you can do any one of the steps below or all (for a total of 4 entries). Don't forget to leave a separate comment for each of the steps you do so I can give you the correct number of entries. And if you're not a blogger, make sure that you leave your email so I can contact you.
1. Hop over Rachel's Etsy shop and choose the print you would like to have if you win. Come back here and tell us your choice in your comment.
2. Blog, Tweet or link to Facebook about this giveaway. Post the link/s in separate comments.
Have a great week!
Have a great week!
~
*If you like your photography
to be featured in an interview,
please send me an email at theshopbug@yahoo.com
