Featured Instagrammer for July 2016: @pintographia

 

The Interview

1. What gear do you use? What do you use most: DSLR or Smartphone?

I currently use a Nikon D7000, my preferred lens being the Nikon 18-200mm. I'm plan to upgrade to a full frame body one day, when I grow up. I use my DSLR mostly because my smartphone camera has scratches all over it.

 

2. When and why did you start taking pictures?

I'm not sure, but I've always been interested in photography… I think. One day my uncle gave me an old point and shoot film camera, I don't remember the make or model. At the time I simply used the camera to capture moments at special events (such as wedding and birthday parties) because it was expensive to buy and develop film. When I got my first Smartphone, the Nokia 6600, in 2004 (I actually still have it today, in a drawer) I became a regular photo taker. But it wasn’t until 2011, when I got my first DSLR, that I started taking photos properly.

 

3. When did you start your account and why Instagram?

I started my account in 2013 when a friend of mine (Dercio aka @drawing_with_lights) showed me that I could also share my photos on Instagram. It's a great way to meet new people with similar interests. This is how I met lots of people and made new friends in Cape Town but most of all, learnt so much and still do.

 

4. What's your favourite image you've posted and why?

I have many favourite images but this one stands out because of how genuine the moment was. It always reminds me of a quote, "I've never seen a smiling face that was not beautiful".

 

@pintographia ...Sometimes the small things in life makes you happy, like blowing soap bubbles....

 

5. Are there any photo apps that you would recommend?

For smartphones I would recommend Snapseed. It is the only app I use on my phone to quickly edit my photos on the go. Besides that, I use Adobe’s Lightroom on my PC.

 

6. Have you had any formal photography training?

I haven't had any “formal” photography training. I’ve had some camera training to understand camera settings. At the time it was with a Nikon D3100. A lot of what I know now is from friends, when we go on "photo walks/missions", and from trial and error.

 

7. Would you classify yourself as a hobbyist or pro? If hobbyist, what's your 9-5?

I'm a hobbyist and do not intend to be a pro. I enjoy creating images without the burden of outside expectation. During the day and sometimes at night I work at the University of Cape Town as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow. I'm working on a transdisciplinary research project (FRACTAL) which aims to provide appropriate climate information to cities in southern Africa to improve climate change decision making in order to contribute towards more resilient cities.

 

9. Any advice for those just starting out?

I would say just enjoy what you shooting. Get a photo buddie. Go out (can be to your backyard) and shoot as often as possible. The list can go on and on. But ultimately, you must be an observer of the world around you and tell the stories that matters through your photography. Don't just be another person with a camera.

 

10. 3 Photos | 3 Stories Feature

"Dance in the rain"

Couple dancing in the rain. I took this picture in Venice-Italy. It was raining and everyone without umbrellas were under the roofs including me. This couple decides to dance in the rain and without music. Everyone just stared at them and I quickly grabbed my camera and captured the moment.

 

@pintographia ...'Lets close our eyes and create our own paradise'...

 

"Nature vs City"

I was up Signal Hill to see the sunset when I saw the fog developing over the ocean. Decided to wait until the fog started to roll over the city. Witnessed some incredible colours in the sky - blues gave way to pinks, yellows and oranges. It was an amazing experience.

 

@pintographia ...on Signall Hill watching the fog coming from the ocean to the city...

 

"El magnifico"

I was chatting with some guys when this equestrian just came from behind. Was my first time being this close to a horse. I was excited and laid on the ground and captured this magnificent horse and the lady.

 

@pintographia ...Horses make sunsets look beautiful...