Student Feature: Lorraine Begin
FEATURING: Lorraine Begin
Transcript:
Q: Tell us a little about yourself?
I'm originally from Northern Ontario, but I moved here to Vancouver (Coquitlam) over 30 years ago. I'm still working, and besides photography I cycle as well.
I've always been a very active person, and I just love the outdoors!
Q: How did you get started in photography?
I basically took a course at school, and then I got myself a darkroom. Then I entered in the photography contest and I won. I was looking at my trophy the other day, and I was like oh my god, I still have that?!
Years later, I was a wedding photographer in my home town, but wildlife photography has always been what I love the most.
Q: So.... You're patient then?
I would be asked: "So how long did you sit to catch that?" "Oh, probably an hour or more", and they go "oh my god, how can you do it?". But, I mean, for me, I don't even care if I come back home and I don't even have one picture. Just to be out there in nature and, you know, try anything with your camera.
Q: What is your advice for beginners?
Well - they don't need expensive camera gear to start with. And then learn how your camera works. Shoot in Manual Mode from the start, and then it's basically practice, practice a lot - and explore, and have fun!
Q: Why is photography important to you?
For me, it's a way to disconnect from the busy world. When I look through my viewfinder as I compose my pictures, I see things very differently. So let's say my camera is my de-stressor pill! And I'm lucky, because I've been working out of my house for years. My background is I see the birds and I have this little ravine here, so I'm very happy!
Q: What role does photography play in your life?
For me, it's a hobby - I just love being out there and exploring and taking pictures. And maybe one day, teach. You know, I come across people sometimes and they go like "hey do you know about this" and I'll show them, and they're very happy, and say "oh I didn't know about this button did that". There's always something to learn.
Q: Is there anything else you'd like to share with your fellow photographers?
It takes a lot of practice to get those amazing shots. But that comes with a lot of patience as well. But you have to have fun, or else you'll get very frustrated. There's a lot to learn to be a good photographer. Like I said earlier, I'm still learning. As with everything in life, you're learning every day. And then being a wildlife photographer myself, there are days sometimes when I get home and I don't even have a photo that I like. I'm very critical of my work. I took different courses over the years, and one that I would suggest is Learn Photography Canada. They have amazing courses that I do recommend if somebody's looking to take some. The courses are great, and Jana's a good teacher!
Follow Lorraine:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyBeautyInPhotos
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorraine_begin/