Interview with Self Portrait Photographer Anna Gay

Hi Anna, Welcome to 121 Clicks. Please introduce yourself. Could you tell us where you’re from and how you got started in Photography?

I am from Atlanta, GA, United States. I first started photography as a hobby in late 2008, but did not pursue it professionally until 2010.

Most of your Photos are like Portraits. How do you define Portrait Photography?

I do my best to capture the uniqueness of an individual while I am photographing them – whether that person is a client, or myself. I always enjoy getting to know my subjects before I photograph them, because I feel as though that helps me find the beauty in their personality, which I try to highlight through a photograph.

In your Flickr Stream, I found 365 Days Project Set and its very interesting. How do you compare yourself between Day 1 and Day 365?

In terms of photography, I grew so much during that project. I attempted a second 365, but stopped before I reached the end, because I realized I wasn’t growing as much as I did the first year. I don’t know if that amount of growth is something that can be duplicated more than once in such a short period of time. I hope it is, because it was a very rewarding project for me.

Do you have any idea to publish a book with your photos? What is most important to you when it comes to your prints?

At this point, I have no plans to publish a book with my photos. I recently had an eBook published through Digital Photography School called The Art of Self-Portraiture, and it is a how-to book that explores the subject of self-portraiture as a way of honing ones portrait skills, as well as becoming more confident in front of the camera.

Which do you prefer for a portrait – Natural lighting or Studio lighting?

I always prefer natural light over studio light, but we all know that natural light is unpredictable. When I do use studio lighting, I try to keep things as simple with a single flash and a reflector umbrella.

How do you find locations for your photos? Is there a certain time of day you know will make better pictures?

I am very fortunate to live in a part of the country that has a lot of rural landscapes and historic buildings, which I often use for my portraits and self-portraits. Honestly, I find them just by driving around, which I really enjoy doing! I almost always prefer to shoot either in the morning, or in the late evening, because the light is softer and more even.

Most of your photos have some creative process, where do you get those unique inspiration from?

I get inspiration from a lot of different places. I find it in other photographers’ work, in music, in literature, and sometimes even in the dreams I have at night. My mind is constantly working on ideas for a shot.

When you come to a Post Processing, what software you are using and do you have any limits for post processing?

I use CS and Lightroom for my post-processing. I usually adjust the exposure and crop in Lightroom first, then I open the photo in CS to adjust color, levels, etc.

What photo gears do you currently use? And your favorite lens is?

I primarily shoot with Nikon, but I have never had a preference on brand. My favorite lens in the Nikkor 50mm f/1.8

Other than photography, what is your hobbies and interests?

I love to travel as much as possible, whether it is across the country or just a few hours from home. I really enjoy cooking, and almost never eat out because I enjoy cooking so much! I also collect antiques.

Thanks again for providing 121 Clicks with this opportunity to interview you. Any final thoughts for our readers?

Your photography is definitely a reflection of you, so do your best to constantly evolve. Try new techniques, new cameras, even new genres of photography, but overall, just enjoy yourself and have fun with your work!