Lensbaby Unplugged Member of the Week
Interview with Elisabeth Lonergan
Q: What is your favorite shoot you've ever done?
A: My most favorite shoots have been exploring in flower gardens looking for that unususal flower, or one that really stands out as being different. It may not be perfect - in fact, the perfect ones are ususally the ones I pass over. It is the imperfect ones that have personality that I want to capture.
Q: What inspires you to reach for your camera?
Q: What are your favorite Lensbaby Lenses to use in your session?
A: The Velvet 85 gives me the chance to show the delicate beauty of many of the more "complicated" flowers like the dahlia and the lilies. The Sol 45 is perfect for isolating flowers like sunflowers and letting show the detail that drew me to the flower, while uncomplicating the background.
Q: How did you hear about Lensbaby, and what encouraged you to purchase a LB lens?
A: I saw ads for them online - I then rented one from LensRentals and ended up falling in love with it, so I had to buy it. I then studied the Lensbaby website and decided the Sol45 would be a nice complement.
Q:What was your journey to becoming a photographer like?
A: I am a scientist by training (full time job is a a professor). You have to be both analytical and creative to be successful as a photographer. My husband bought a Canon Rebel for me one year for Christmas. I had no idea that I would like photography, but I started taking online classes to learn how to use the camera and discovered that I truly loved photography as it allowed me to use both my analytical skill and to really unleash my creative side.
Q: What is your favorite subject to photograph and how would you describe your photography style?
A: I love photographing flowers. I would describe my style as creative portraiture.
Q: What do you love the most about photography?
A: I love being able to use both my analytical skills and my creative nature in one pursuit.
Q: What helps you when you're struggling with a creative block?
A: When I get stuck, I will take an online class - even if it is a genre of photography that I don't intend to pursue. I usually learn something that I can bring into my work. And that energizes me.
Q: Would you consider yourself an adventurous photographer, or do you tend to stay in your comfort zone?
A: I tend to be more creative with my photography of my favorite subjects. That is why Lensbabies are perfect for me!
Q: What else would you like to see from Lensbaby in the future?
A: I would love to see more creative lenses that enhance bokeh