An interview with Ken Mahar,
1) How long have you been into photography and what got you started?
For many years. I photographed my work on construction projects as well as nature photos.
2) Do you have any formal training and what kind of photography do you do most?
I have done a few photo workshops but no formal education.
3) In your opinion, what makes a good picture stand out from the rest?
Subject matter counts but it is the ability to put forth a feeling that will draw emotions.
4) What equipment did you use and was there any special setup? Can you walk us through it?
I normally use my 5D Mark III but this image was taken with my iphone at Costco. I just could not resist recording the image. This child was totally engulfed by this stuffed animal.
5) Do you post process your final images, and if so can you describe your workflow?
Normally yes with lightroom 4, (I need to get 5 I know), but this was straight of my phone.
6) Who or what has influenced your photography and what inspired you to take your winning shot?
I went on an African Safari in 2009. I was fortunate enough to spend the day with Mama Sarah Obama in her home town of Kogelo, Kenya. In showing her the images that I had captured thus far into my safari, she was so enthralled in seeing what I had captured that I decided then and there that I wanted to share and sell my images.
This shot was just too good to miss.
7) Would you change anything if you could do it again, and if so what?
I did not ask permission from the parents and they don't know that I had even taken the shot. Next time I would probably ask permission.
8) What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
How much money that I would be spending on equipment.
9) What is your favorite photography accessory, other than your camera?
Probably my tripod.
10) If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?
My 24-105 L series lens because it is so versatile and sharp.
11) What lighting equipment, if any, do you take on a shoot?
I shoot mostly with ambient light, reflector at times and rarely a flash.
12) If you couldn't do photography what else would you do?
Probably woodwork
13) Do you have any funny or interesting stories about your experiences?
Too long to talk about here, but you can find my NBC interview on youtube by searching Ken Mahar in Africa.
14) Is there somewhere we can see more of your work?
http://www.ken-mahar-photos.com now showing at Mistral Restaurant & Bar Gallery Redwood Shores, Redwood City Library, Coming in May Silicon Valley Open Studios
15) Do you have any advice for the rest of us?
Learn your camera functions, shoot as often as you can, even if it is in your own backyard.