Photography Related
What camera do you use for your sessions?
Currently, I use a Canon 5D, as well as another Canon for a backup. When I first got started learning photography, I shot with the film version of the Canon Rebel. I then moved to the Digital Rebel and upgraded from there based on my needs. If you are just beginning with photography, I highly recommend starting with the Canon Digital Rebel.
What photography books do you recommend?
I have accumulated dozens of photography books over the last decade or so, but here is a short list of my faves.
Understanding Exposure - Excellent book by Bryan Peterson on nailing your exposure and getting creative with various metering techniques. It contains very helpful analogies to better explain ISO, apertures, and shutter speeds. If you only buy one photography book, this is the one to get. Put your camera on “manual” mode and have fun.
Professional Secrets of Natural Light Portrait Photography - I’ll be the first to admit, the photos used as examples in this book are pretty dated and not at all my “style,” but the techniques explained are timeless and useful, and of course apply to both film and digital photography.
Legal Handbook for Photographers - Ever been hassled by a security guard for taking photos from a public sidewalk? Know your rights! A must for all photographers… hobbyists, professionals, and everyone in between.
National Geographic Photography Field Guide: People and Portraits - The very first photography book I ever purchased was an NG Field Guide… it wasn’t this exact edition (I don’t think they publish mine any longer), but this one is specifically written for learning portraiture.
How to Photograph Your Baby - This book features simple, yet effective techniques for photographing babies, even with a small point-and-shoot camera. It’s great for new parents, and I think it makes a unique baby shower gift.
Business Related
How do you keep your clients and calendar organized?
For my calendar, I use both iCal and Google Calendar. To keep organized on all of my daily client “to-do” tasks, I live and breathe Highrise.
Where did you find the beautiful music in your gallery?
My gallery features a royalty free selection I purchased from a company called Stock20. If you are a media professional and have a use for RF music, email me for a free song credit.
Where is your website hosted?
All of my sites are hosted on Dreamhost. I’ve been using them since 2004, and I’ve been very pleased with their affordability, features, and customer service. Dreamhost even has a group of applications called “One Click Installs” that can be easily set up via their control panel, including Wordpress. Highly recommended!
What software do you use on this blog?
This blog is running on the latest version of Wordpress and about 20+ plugins. For your convenience, I have created a page listing my active plugins.