Excellent Capture / Discuss

filam61 says:

This is our sixth in a series where we showcase one of our members' photo and ask him/her seven questions. This month's featured photo is titled "Mystique" by Ruel Tafalla.

It's funny how some of the best and talented photographers are also some of the most humble of all. Ruel Tafalla is no exception. Amidst all the accolades, awards, and publications of his works he still considers himself an amateur. If Ruel is indeed considered an amateur, I would hate to think how much longer it will be for my own body of work to reach the professional level. He may not think of himself as a professional but, nonetheless, his skill is undeniably that of a master photographer. You can see more of Ruel's photography at his website.

"Mystique" is a portrait of a much sought after model, Ms. Kharunisia Jazmin, who is as comfortable behind the camera as she is in front of it. Kharunisia's face is creatively framed within what seems to be some type of geometric structure placed dynamically at an angle. There's just the right amount of light to illuminate her eyes and accentuate her chiseled features. What an excellent capture of such a beautiful subject!



QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

How long have you been a photographer?

I have been shooting since 1999.

Do you consider yourself an amateur or a professional photographer?

I'm just an amateur. :)

Whose work has influenced you the most when it comes to your own photography?

John Shaw's landscapes have been a strong influence to my own work.

Have you had any formal training in photography or are you self taught?

I attended a few workshops if you consider that as formal training. :)

What type of photography do you enjoy the most? Why?

I like shooting landscapes in IR or Color. The feeling is unexplainable.

If you had to choose a single lens to carry around with you at all times, which one would it be? Why?

The 16-35F2.8L for landscapes. If shooting portraits, then its the 70-200F2.8L.

Do you have any tips or recommendations for beginners in photography?

Always keep a black garbage bag in your camera bag. It will always come in handy. And of course, don't stop shooting. :)
Originally posted at 10:26PM, 9 January 2010 PDT (permalink)
Tar Guevara (a group admin) edited this topic 7 months ago.