J
Julie Kenward
Guest
Today we are going to take a closer look at one of our BPN members, Brendan Dozier.
Born in Pacific Palisades, California, Brendan spent most of his youth in the small town of Nyack, New York, located along the Hudson River. He moved back west to Woodland Hills, California for high school, then went on to spend two years in Santa Barbara where he attended college. Brendan completed his BA degree in Art at San Diego State University and continues to live in San Diego with his wife, Lisa.
Brendan has done recreational photography throughout most of his life. He took some photography classes in school but only started focusing on nature photography seriously during the past year.
You can see more of Brendan's work at his Smugmug site.
Do you consider yourself to be a professional, semi-pro, or student?
I will always be a student of photography but I’m going to say that I’m a “wanna-be” semi-pro who has yet to make any income!
If you’re not a pro, what’s your day job?
I am working to develop a start-up non-profit organization based here in San Diego, California whose mission will be to raise money to protect animals and natural habitats in the U.S. and around the world. (We are keeping all the details under wraps until everything is approved and we have established a launch date.) What I can tell you is that it will be a fun and entertaining form of fundraising and will involve photography and the internet. There are still many headaches and hurdles to overcome but it is all very exciting!
What do you do when you’re not out with a camera in hand?
Whenever I get the time, I enjoy a taking a good nap. You appreciate them more and more as you get older. (Well, that and a really good deli sandwich!) I also like a wide variety of music and enjoy hiking, jogging, body surfing, mountain biking and a good beer.
What make/model of equipment do you use on a regular basis?
I use a Canon 7D body with the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM +2.0 teleconverter & the EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM.
What editing software do you use?
I use Photoshop CS5, Adobe Camera Raw, Canon Digital Photo Professional, and Topaz plug-ins.
Do you only shoot digital or do you also shoot film/slides?
I only shoot digital.
What classifications (or genres) of photography are you primarily known for or interested in?
It’s all new to me so I’m like a kid in a candy store and am interested in everything. I want to improve in both in-camera photography and creative photo art imagery.
Would you say your biggest strength lies in your technical skills with the camera, your artistic
expression/interpretation, or your post-processing skills?
I'm still developing my technical skills so I'd say my strengths are mainly artistic and post-processing right now. Though I've learned a lot regarding post-processing, I look forward to improving my in-camera skills so I can reduce the amount of time spent at the computer.
Do you conduct any classes, seminars, or workshops?
No, but maybe someday in the future...
Have you ever been published? Won any awards?
One of my images was selected for the Third Annual “Best of Nature” exhibit at the San Diego Natural History Museum this past November. I have also received a second place ribbon at my local camera club annual exhibit.
What was it about photography that first drew you in?
I always liked looking at photographs as a child. I remember spending hours thumbing through Life Magazine's "The Best of Life" collection we had as a coffee table book in my family’s home. It was always such an amazing collection of captivating and evocative images and it really stimulated my sense of wonder, imagination, and curiosity. I remember the captions were never enough; I always wanted to know more about the story.
What ignited my current passion for nature photography all started about a year ago. I was laid off from a job for the very first time in my life. To deal with the stress, I started going out on hikes at a local lake with my old digital Rebel camera. I soon rediscovered how enjoyable and rewarding it was to be outdoors, seeking interesting and beautiful images to capture. It seemed to satisfy this creative and expressive part of me that had gone dormant. I remember saying to myself, “This is what I want to do for the rest of my life, and I will do whatever it takes to stay away from a corporate cubical!” Then I attended two seminars and a stage demo given by Arthur Morris at the Photo Expo West and that sealed the deal. His passion for photography was both infectious and inspiring and the next day I purchased my 70-200 lens and 2x teleconverter.
What keeps you coming back for more?
Lots of things including wanting to improve, the excitement of the hunt for that next great image, trying new creative ideas, connecting with and enjoying the richness of the natural world, and sharing my passion with others.
Whose work do you most admire and why?
I honestly don't have a favorite. I'm continually discovering wonderfully creative and brilliant photographers both new & old. There is a huge amount of beautiful, world-class photography that I see every day right here on BPN.
Do you have any current mentors or muses? Anyone who’s rocked your world with their knowledge of photography?
I consider Arthur Morris my first mentor. Attending his seminars at the Photo Expo West last year, purchasing his “Art of Bird Photography” & “Digital Basics”, reading his comments on BPN and his blog have all helped me tremendously.
In addition to his beautiful images, I love his tireless drive to learn and educate, his confidence, and how he makes himself available to everyone who is eager to learn. He's a great teacher and coach. I also consider all of the moderators and many photographers here at BPN my mentors as well. Learning from their work and feedback has helped me so much.
How have you personally grown and/or changed because of your love of photography?
Nature photography has helped me appreciate and enjoy the world around me so much more. It has awakened the spirit of adventure and discovery in me and I feel more connected to life. In addition to being more observant and aware of my surroundings, I've also discovered how much I enjoy sharing and giving support and encouragement to others.
How has holding a camera to your eye changed the way you interact with the world around
you?
I know the camera has made me more aware of my surroundings, seeing things in a new way and in terms of what is beautiful and interesting to the eye. I'm more observant and in tune with my senses, wanting to explore and examine things more closely. There's a great sense of freedom and adventure when I have a camera in hand. I'm like a kid running around snapping off shots, playing in the sand & mud and loving every minute. I often lose track of time while shooting and my desire to get a great photograph will often override my common sense (unfortunately!)
A few weeks ago, I was down at the beach during a low tide sunset. To get the best angle and light, I positioned myself between the surf and the birds on the shore. At first, I tried squatting down and timing my shots in-between the sets of waves coming in; however, my eagerness to get a nice low angle soon found me flat on my belly, covered with sand and soaking wet. People were laughing and shaking their heads and I smiled and laughed along with them. I was having a blast and I knew I had some good captures.
My joy quickly turned to horror, though, when I realized my camera had suddenly shut down. Though I had tried my best to keep the camera dry, a bit of wet sand had jammed the shutter button. Not having had anything like this ever happen to me before I immediately thought the worst - my camera was history. I cried out to the heavens, "No, no, no, please, no!!!" Then I remember reading about a similar experience online (not sure if it was BPN), and it soon gave me hope. The advice was that these digital SLRs are more rugged than you think. I just needed to chill out, wipe down my camera and let it dry out for a while. My breathing and heart rate went back to normal and, sure enough, after a few hours and a jiggle or two of the shutter button, my camera was working again.
How long have you been involved with BPN?
December 20th was my one-year anniversary.
How has being involved in our forums changed your photography?
Because I'm new to serious photography, I'd say that the forums have been a huge influence in forming my images. The ability to get almost instant feedback from a host of seasoned and world-class photographers has allowed me to learn so much in a relatively short amount of time. Looking at some of my images from a year ago, I can see a definite improvement in my techs, composition, and processing. I attribute these gains to both BPN forums and the teaching materials of Arthur Morris.
What’s been the best piece of advice you’ve gotten here at BPN?
On the first day I joined, Randy Stout encouraged me to comment and critique on other folk's images. Even though you may be new, don't think you are not qualified to comment; it's actually one of the best ways to learn. If you're new to photography and/or online forums, and you feel you need to build up a little confidence first, then hang out at the "Eager to Learn" forum for a while.
What forum do you spend most of your time in? Why?
I like taking turns hanging out in each of the main critique forums but I believe I've spent the most time in OOTB (Out-of-the-Box), with the Macro forum a close second. When I first browsed the OOTB forum, I was really blown away by the creativity and didn't realize how popular it was. Did you know that the OOTB forum is the third most active critique forum on BPN? I have learned so much there and what a great group of folks - very helpful and supportive - just like everywhere else here on BPN. Because of my artistic background, I enjoy trying out new creative effects and techniques. Though I like the challenge of pure in-camera photography, it's fun to break out of the norm, use your imagination and create something unique and interesting.
Got any advice for future photographers?
Digital cameras allow you to take thousands of images in one session and review them instantly; always take full advantage of this. When you find a subject that interests you, experiment as much as possible, taking many different angles and exposures as you go along. Zoom in, zoom out, go vertical, and stand on your head if you have to. You will learn tons browsing through your images seeing what worked and what didn't work.
Most digital SLRs have a built-in histogram; learn how to use it! It will help you tremendously in getting a proper exposure.
Have fun and enjoy!
What’s currently at the top of your photography dream list? (Where do you most want to go or what do you most want to photograph?)
I’d like to visit Africa for the big cats & birds and the Island of Madagascar for the lemurs and other unique creatures.
We’ve all heard the phrase, “You can’t take it with you” but if you COULD take it with you, what one camera body and lens would you strap around your neck for all of eternity and why?
I can only go by what I've heard from more experienced photographers: Canon 1D MK IV and the EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS USM Lens with 1.4x and 2x teleconverters.
Anything else you want to add?
Several members - including myself - have mentioned how important music is while doing their creative & post-processing work. It’s nice to relax with some good music and a tasty brew while browsing through the day’s images; it puts me in a creative frame of mind. I'm always looking for new music and open to people turning me on to new artists. (Feel free to let me know if you have any good recommendations!)
I’d love to know what you listen to for inspiration and creativity. I listen to just about everything (except speed metal & polka music!) I do enjoy quite a lot of the new artists out there but here's a small sample of some older favorites. (Yeah, I know, I'm getting old!)
Folk/Rock/Soul: Van Morrison, Ray LaMontagne, & Sean Hayes
Rock: Led Zeppelin, Rolling Stones, Jimmie Hendrix, The Band, CCR, Pink Floyd, & The Foo Fighters
Country/ Blue Grass: Zach Brown Band and Allison Kraus
Jazz: Pat Metheney, Dexter Gordon, and Keith Jarrett
Blues: Freddie King, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and Eric Clapton
Reggae: Peter Tosh
Classical: Andrew York, solo guitar
Born in Pacific Palisades, California, Brendan spent most of his youth in the small town of Nyack, New York, located along the Hudson River. He moved back west to Woodland Hills, California for high school, then went on to spend two years in Santa Barbara where he attended college. Brendan completed his BA degree in Art at San Diego State University and continues to live in San Diego with his wife, Lisa.
Brendan has done recreational photography throughout most of his life. He took some photography classes in school but only started focusing on nature photography seriously during the past year.
You can see more of Brendan's work at his Smugmug site.
Do you consider yourself to be a professional, semi-pro, or student?
I will always be a student of photography but I’m going to say that I’m a “wanna-be” semi-pro who has yet to make any income!
If you’re not a pro, what’s your day job?
I am working to develop a start-up non-profit organization based here in San Diego, California whose mission will be to raise money to protect animals and natural habitats in the U.S. and around the world. (We are keeping all the details under wraps until everything is approved and we have established a launch date.) What I can tell you is that it will be a fun and entertaining form of fundraising and will involve photography and the internet. There are still many headaches and hurdles to overcome but it is all very exciting!
What do you do when you’re not out with a camera in hand?
Whenever I get the time, I enjoy a taking a good nap. You appreciate them more and more as you get older. (Well, that and a really good deli sandwich!) I also like a wide variety of music and enjoy hiking, jogging, body surfing, mountain biking and a good beer.
What make/model of equipment do you use on a regular basis?
I use a Canon 7D body with the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM +2.0 teleconverter & the EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM.
What editing software do you use?
I use Photoshop CS5, Adobe Camera Raw, Canon Digital Photo Professional, and Topaz plug-ins.
Do you only shoot digital or do you also shoot film/slides?
I only shoot digital.
What classifications (or genres) of photography are you primarily known for or interested in?
It’s all new to me so I’m like a kid in a candy store and am interested in everything. I want to improve in both in-camera photography and creative photo art imagery.
Would you say your biggest strength lies in your technical skills with the camera, your artistic
expression/interpretation, or your post-processing skills?
I'm still developing my technical skills so I'd say my strengths are mainly artistic and post-processing right now. Though I've learned a lot regarding post-processing, I look forward to improving my in-camera skills so I can reduce the amount of time spent at the computer.
Do you conduct any classes, seminars, or workshops?
No, but maybe someday in the future...
Have you ever been published? Won any awards?
One of my images was selected for the Third Annual “Best of Nature” exhibit at the San Diego Natural History Museum this past November. I have also received a second place ribbon at my local camera club annual exhibit.
What was it about photography that first drew you in?
I always liked looking at photographs as a child. I remember spending hours thumbing through Life Magazine's "The Best of Life" collection we had as a coffee table book in my family’s home. It was always such an amazing collection of captivating and evocative images and it really stimulated my sense of wonder, imagination, and curiosity. I remember the captions were never enough; I always wanted to know more about the story.
What ignited my current passion for nature photography all started about a year ago. I was laid off from a job for the very first time in my life. To deal with the stress, I started going out on hikes at a local lake with my old digital Rebel camera. I soon rediscovered how enjoyable and rewarding it was to be outdoors, seeking interesting and beautiful images to capture. It seemed to satisfy this creative and expressive part of me that had gone dormant. I remember saying to myself, “This is what I want to do for the rest of my life, and I will do whatever it takes to stay away from a corporate cubical!” Then I attended two seminars and a stage demo given by Arthur Morris at the Photo Expo West and that sealed the deal. His passion for photography was both infectious and inspiring and the next day I purchased my 70-200 lens and 2x teleconverter.
What keeps you coming back for more?
Lots of things including wanting to improve, the excitement of the hunt for that next great image, trying new creative ideas, connecting with and enjoying the richness of the natural world, and sharing my passion with others.
Whose work do you most admire and why?
I honestly don't have a favorite. I'm continually discovering wonderfully creative and brilliant photographers both new & old. There is a huge amount of beautiful, world-class photography that I see every day right here on BPN.
Do you have any current mentors or muses? Anyone who’s rocked your world with their knowledge of photography?
I consider Arthur Morris my first mentor. Attending his seminars at the Photo Expo West last year, purchasing his “Art of Bird Photography” & “Digital Basics”, reading his comments on BPN and his blog have all helped me tremendously.
In addition to his beautiful images, I love his tireless drive to learn and educate, his confidence, and how he makes himself available to everyone who is eager to learn. He's a great teacher and coach. I also consider all of the moderators and many photographers here at BPN my mentors as well. Learning from their work and feedback has helped me so much.
How have you personally grown and/or changed because of your love of photography?
Nature photography has helped me appreciate and enjoy the world around me so much more. It has awakened the spirit of adventure and discovery in me and I feel more connected to life. In addition to being more observant and aware of my surroundings, I've also discovered how much I enjoy sharing and giving support and encouragement to others.
How has holding a camera to your eye changed the way you interact with the world around
you?
I know the camera has made me more aware of my surroundings, seeing things in a new way and in terms of what is beautiful and interesting to the eye. I'm more observant and in tune with my senses, wanting to explore and examine things more closely. There's a great sense of freedom and adventure when I have a camera in hand. I'm like a kid running around snapping off shots, playing in the sand & mud and loving every minute. I often lose track of time while shooting and my desire to get a great photograph will often override my common sense (unfortunately!)
A few weeks ago, I was down at the beach during a low tide sunset. To get the best angle and light, I positioned myself between the surf and the birds on the shore. At first, I tried squatting down and timing my shots in-between the sets of waves coming in; however, my eagerness to get a nice low angle soon found me flat on my belly, covered with sand and soaking wet. People were laughing and shaking their heads and I smiled and laughed along with them. I was having a blast and I knew I had some good captures.
My joy quickly turned to horror, though, when I realized my camera had suddenly shut down. Though I had tried my best to keep the camera dry, a bit of wet sand had jammed the shutter button. Not having had anything like this ever happen to me before I immediately thought the worst - my camera was history. I cried out to the heavens, "No, no, no, please, no!!!" Then I remember reading about a similar experience online (not sure if it was BPN), and it soon gave me hope. The advice was that these digital SLRs are more rugged than you think. I just needed to chill out, wipe down my camera and let it dry out for a while. My breathing and heart rate went back to normal and, sure enough, after a few hours and a jiggle or two of the shutter button, my camera was working again.
How long have you been involved with BPN?
December 20th was my one-year anniversary.
How has being involved in our forums changed your photography?
Because I'm new to serious photography, I'd say that the forums have been a huge influence in forming my images. The ability to get almost instant feedback from a host of seasoned and world-class photographers has allowed me to learn so much in a relatively short amount of time. Looking at some of my images from a year ago, I can see a definite improvement in my techs, composition, and processing. I attribute these gains to both BPN forums and the teaching materials of Arthur Morris.
What’s been the best piece of advice you’ve gotten here at BPN?
On the first day I joined, Randy Stout encouraged me to comment and critique on other folk's images. Even though you may be new, don't think you are not qualified to comment; it's actually one of the best ways to learn. If you're new to photography and/or online forums, and you feel you need to build up a little confidence first, then hang out at the "Eager to Learn" forum for a while.
What forum do you spend most of your time in? Why?
I like taking turns hanging out in each of the main critique forums but I believe I've spent the most time in OOTB (Out-of-the-Box), with the Macro forum a close second. When I first browsed the OOTB forum, I was really blown away by the creativity and didn't realize how popular it was. Did you know that the OOTB forum is the third most active critique forum on BPN? I have learned so much there and what a great group of folks - very helpful and supportive - just like everywhere else here on BPN. Because of my artistic background, I enjoy trying out new creative effects and techniques. Though I like the challenge of pure in-camera photography, it's fun to break out of the norm, use your imagination and create something unique and interesting.
Got any advice for future photographers?
Digital cameras allow you to take thousands of images in one session and review them instantly; always take full advantage of this. When you find a subject that interests you, experiment as much as possible, taking many different angles and exposures as you go along. Zoom in, zoom out, go vertical, and stand on your head if you have to. You will learn tons browsing through your images seeing what worked and what didn't work.
Most digital SLRs have a built-in histogram; learn how to use it! It will help you tremendously in getting a proper exposure.
Have fun and enjoy!
What’s currently at the top of your photography dream list? (Where do you most want to go or what do you most want to photograph?)
I’d like to visit Africa for the big cats & birds and the Island of Madagascar for the lemurs and other unique creatures.
We’ve all heard the phrase, “You can’t take it with you” but if you COULD take it with you, what one camera body and lens would you strap around your neck for all of eternity and why?
I can only go by what I've heard from more experienced photographers: Canon 1D MK IV and the EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS USM Lens with 1.4x and 2x teleconverters.
Anything else you want to add?
Several members - including myself - have mentioned how important music is while doing their creative & post-processing work. It’s nice to relax with some good music and a tasty brew while browsing through the day’s images; it puts me in a creative frame of mind. I'm always looking for new music and open to people turning me on to new artists. (Feel free to let me know if you have any good recommendations!)
I’d love to know what you listen to for inspiration and creativity. I listen to just about everything (except speed metal & polka music!) I do enjoy quite a lot of the new artists out there but here's a small sample of some older favorites. (Yeah, I know, I'm getting old!)
Folk/Rock/Soul: Van Morrison, Ray LaMontagne, & Sean Hayes
Rock: Led Zeppelin, Rolling Stones, Jimmie Hendrix, The Band, CCR, Pink Floyd, & The Foo Fighters
Country/ Blue Grass: Zach Brown Band and Allison Kraus
Jazz: Pat Metheney, Dexter Gordon, and Keith Jarrett
Blues: Freddie King, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and Eric Clapton
Reggae: Peter Tosh
Classical: Andrew York, solo guitar
- Brendan Dozier
- Adobe Photoshop CS5 Macintosh
- Brendan Dozier
- Adobe Photoshop CS5 Macintosh
- Brendan Dozier
- Adobe Photoshop CS5 Macintosh
- Brendan Dozier
- Adobe Photoshop CS5 Macintosh
- Brendan Dozier
- Adobe Photoshop CS5 Macintosh
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