Raven Red Photography Interview

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Model: Laura Evans. MUA: Christine. Eakin.

Raven Red Photography is based in San Antonio and specializes in dark, alternative and creative photography.

Laura: When did you first decide to get into photography?

Raven Red: I'm not sure if and when it became a conscious decision. Photography has always been a part of my life in one way or another. My dad was a photographer so I grew up around cameras. I took my first actual photography class in high school, and soon after I set up a darkroom in my spare bathroom. But it was just fun and a hobby to me back then. I LOVED it! At the time, I just didn’t think it was a career I could make a living at. But over the years I have done band photography, newspaper photography, portraits, weddings, fashion, and eventually I found my way into alternative. So, somewhere along the way I decided I am indeed a photographer.

Laura: What got you interested in shooting Alternative photography?

Raven Red: Deep down, I have always been drawn to the alternative scene. Although I may hardly look the part, I am really just a punk chick at heart. I find beauty in the dark and unusual.

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Model: Jessica Melendez. MUA: Christine Eakin. Designer: Samantha Plasencia.

Laura: What photographers have been a source of inspiration?

Raven Red: Nick Knight and Annie Leibovitz are just incredible… they were the fashion photographers that made me want to shoot fashion.

Laura: What do you view as the most important aspect of a photo shoot?

Raven Red: Connecting with the subject/model… if we have a good vibe going, we will get great images.

Laura: When creating a composition: What is your main focus?

Raven Red: In the studio I try to play with lighting in the composition, but if it is a location I look for patterns in the scene and really try to compose a photo utilizing the environment.

Model: Jenny Lectron. MUA: Jonathan Moreno. Designer: Jupiter Moon 3 Corets.

Laura: What type of equipment and programs do you use to photograph and edit your work?

Raven Red: I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark II, Alienbee lighting. One of my favorite tools is the barn doors and now, my grids. I love to play with harsh directional light. I process my images both in Lightroom and Photoshop but keep heady Photoshop to a minimum.

Laura: Do you have any pet peeves when it comes to working with models?

Raven Red: Besides showing up late. Models that are scared to let go, scared to be silly or look ugly or show true emotion …anytime a model holds back on a shoot it can be frustrating. The best images come from fearless models. When you get a model that gives herself over to the shoot - magic can happen.

Laura: Name the one person, present or past, that you would love to photograph and why?

Raven Red: Mosh…. That girl can pose!!!!

Model: Minus. MUA: Elizabeth Giguere. Hair: David Andrew. Designer: Mikailee Alton.

Laura: What do you have planned for the future?

Raven Red: I'm ready to hit the road! And currently looking at some travel dates. My other love is photographing weddings... So, my focus is on shooting alternative and vintage inspired weddings with a fashion twist. I have lots more publications coming out soon, including a few features on my work. And lastly I have a special project in the works, which will combine my love of animals with photography.

Laura: What would you like to say to all your fans?

Raven Red: A HUGE thanks for all the love and support. You guys really keep me going.

Website: www.ravenredphoto.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ravenredphoto