Austin Schrock

I would like to introduce to you Austin Schrock, one amazing and unique photographer, cinematographer and youtuber. 

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and your background, where you are from etc.
My name is Austin Schrock, i am a photographer, and cinematographer, and I've been using a camera since i was 8. I'm from Athens TN which is where i was born and raised. 

Q: How and why did you get into photography?
I got into photography after becoming a cinematographer. Recording doesn't always require the thought "whats my composition in this shot" but with photography, composition should be the only thought that comes to mind. I suddenly realized that my photos don't look very good unless there is a clear composition. I became fascinated by this, which drove me to hone in on my skill of capturing exactly what i was envisioning.

Q: What camera do you shoot with and what is your “go to” lens?
I shoot with a 6D mark II. My go to lens is the 2.8 L series 16-35mm, for the ease and convenience of vlogging, and the wide angle landscape photography abilities. That being said, I absolutely love shooting portraits with the 50mm at about 1.4-1.6 f stop for that smooth creamy background.

Q: How often do you shoot and what is your favorite genre?

I usually find time to take 3-5 trips a year to shoot. Whether that's a different country, or just exploring a new location for a day. My favorite genre would be nature. In nature photography it is very difficult to find a solid composition, while at the same time keeping it unique.

Q: What challenges you the most in photography?

The thing that challenges me the most is manipulating my camera so that it will take the picture i have created from scratch inside my mind. 

Q: What places, states or countries have you gone shooting?
London, Rome Italy, The Vatican City, Montana (Going to the Sun Road) and Banff National Park

Q: What is your favorite photo that you have taken and why? Please explain how you took it, was it all planned, if so, what was your planning process?
My favorite photo I've taken, was in Banff, at the Lake Agnes Tea House. It was the last photo i expected to be my favorite before the trip. But as i climbed the 2.5 miles up the mountain at 6 am for that crystal clear, mirroring lake i could feel it. With mist rising, a perfect reflection of the shear cliffs all around the lake, i knew i had just captured something id never see again.

Q: What was the hardest thing you've learned in photography?
The hardest thing I've learned from photography, is to see through the eye of the camera. We've all done it, where we see something beautiful or majestic, whip out our camera and snap a shot, and in Lightroom it looks nothing like what your eyes were picking up. The point of a camera is not to capture what your eye is seeing. The relationship between your eye and the camera is like that of a triangle; both points lead up to a single point (the picture) but the way your eye and the camera see that are from two different angles. At first i thought this was a disadvantage, but once i learned to shoot through the eye of the camera, i suddenly realized that this was a way of capturing something that only this exact camera and lens were capable of creating. Honestly it's kind of like a superpower.

Q: What do you hope to still learn/improve?
I would love to learn how to do model photography, but outside the box. @brandonwoelfel is a perfect example of that, which is where i draw a lot of inspiration.
The thing that challenges me the most is manipulating my camera so that it will take the picture i have created from scratch inside my mind.

Q: What's one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out or early in their photography journey?
The only thing i would tell them is never NEVER EVER shoot in anything but MANUAL. You don't need training wheels my friend. Your gonna suck at first. But we all did, and when we learn how to use a camera in manual it becomes your personal weapon of mass awesomeness. With time you will know exactly what the picture will look like before you even turn it on. One photographer told me "Son... you have to make that camera your B**** " I wouldn't go that far lol but he speaks some truth. You have to own it, you should never feel out of control, and you must know exactly what your camera is telling you at all times. It takes hours of shooting (in manual) but let me tell you, when you can run your camera inside out, backwards and upside down, it feels AMAZING, and is worth every second. 

Q: Can you please share some of your favorite photos – say 3 max. and why you like them?
I can't say exactly why i love all these photos. It's just that feeling of peace right as you press the button and you just know it's gonna be perfect!

Feel free to reach out to Austin if you would like to collaborate either be photography or shooting a video.

Facebook: https://bit.ly/2RRxTWg

Instagram: https://bit.ly/2PjdVC1

YouTube: https://bit.ly/2EgYZOB

Jessica Tejera

On today's blog I would like to introduce to you Jessica Tejera.

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and your background, where you are from etc.

Hi, I'm Jessica Tejera. I love to venture outdoors with my family and blog about my eco-friendly travels on my blog, The Walking Mermaid. I was born and raised in Puerto Rico and have lived in Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, and Hawaii. Growing up my dad always took my brothers and I camping, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, back country camping, snorkeling, biking, and pretty much anything that had to do with the great outdoors. My passion for caring for our planet and exploring it continued to grow over the years with my own adventures. Now as a mom of two girls, I want to give them a childhood where they will learn to love the outdoors and care for it as much as I do.

Q: What camera do you shoot with?

Now that I'm more serious about my photography and want to create more professional images, my husband surprised me for my birthday with a Canon Rebel T6 kit. It’s not the best quality camera out there but it is definitely the best place to start when taking your photography to a more professional level.

Q: What is your “go to” lens?

My go to lens at the moment is the EFS 18-55mm. I like the range of it for portraits and landscapes. I also use an EF 75-300mm lens when I'm shooting wildlife or the moon.

Q: How and why did you get into photography?

Along with my journeys, photography is one hobby I took on at an early age. My mom and dad owned a Minolta camera. The old school ones with the film. I remember them taking it on some of our adventures. I grew to like taking photos as well. My very first camera was a Polaroid camera. You know, those that print the photo right away. I remember taking pictures of my friends, my mom’s flower gardens, and pretty much everything I could possibly find.

I eventually got my first sports camera when I lived in Puerto Rico along with my first digital camera. Not the best quality per say. I have eventually grown from then and upgraded to a GoPro Hero 3 and a Sony camera when we lived in Hawaii. Last year I got the Canon and can’t wait to continue to grow in my photography.  

My mom and dad have taught me many of the things I know about photography. My mom always taught me about poses, lighting, angles while my dad taught me more of the technical side of it such as aperture, ISO, lenses, shooting speeds, and editing.

Q: What places, states or countries have you gone shooting?

As far as my blog goes I have taken photos in Hawaii, Florida, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, and Puerto Rico. I want to continue to add to this list over time.

Q: How often do you shoot and what is your favorite genre?

I shoot anything from one to six times a week. Whether they are for photo sessions, for projects with Visit Clarksville, my shop, or even my blog travels. My favorite genre to shoot though would have to be outdoors with waterfalls at the very top of that list of outdoor destinations.

Q: What is your favorite photo that you have taken and why? Please explain how you took it, was it all planned, if so, what was your planning process?

My favorite photo is of Ranger Falls at South Cumberland State Park. I took this photo during my father-daughter backpacking trip last May. I had planned ahead the entire trip and even talked to my dad. I wanted to get a perfect waterfall shot. I had tried before and failed miserably. It’s not perfect but it was a good start towards the right direction.

We started our hiking trip that Saturday morning and headed to Laurel Falls. This was where I took my very first waterfall shot that I was extremely happy about. I jotted in my notepad really quickly and then we headed off to continue our trip. Once we reached our halfway point at Ranger Falls I decided to try it out again before the rain started pouring down. I captured the image I had always wanted to capture for the second time that day. I was so extremely excited. I got lucky too cause shortly after taking about three photos it started to rain.

Q: What was the hardest thing you've learned in photography?

Well I'm going to be honest. I'm still learning. I'm in no way a professional, yet! I have been treating my photography on a more professional level since August of 2017. I have shot before but not with any intention of actually publishing my work and making it a career. I think the hardest thing is editing photos. I have learned a lot since I started but I know I still have a lot more to learn.

Q: What do you hope to still learn/improve?

I want to continue to learn how to edit better. I'm sure my editing skills can improve greatly with the more I learn from other photographers, courses, and yes, YouTube. I also hope to learn how to use Photoshop down the road. Not to completely change my image but to do small edits to them or even for business projects. I think it’s a great tool to have in the photography business.

Q: What challenges you the most in photography?

Besides the photography aspect of things, I never gave much thought of the legal aspect of it. I think that above editing or learning how to get good quality photos, the legal side of it is the hardest of the two but the beauty of it being hard is that I put more time and interest into making it easy by learning “the ways of the force.”

Q: What's one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out or early in their photography journey?

It is never too late to learn. Whether you are in high school or already going over the hill, if you like to take photos, then I say go for it. There is nothing better then to be doing something that you are truly passionate about. Also, don’t be scared to ask other photographers questions either. I ask big social media influencers and other photographers questions all the time. They’re human just like you are and many of them are willing to help others. I am pretty sure they can relate as well. We all were there once, asking questions and seeking tips and advice on how to improve.  

Q: Can you please share some of your favorite photos – say 3 max. and why you like them.

• Helton Creek Falls - This waterfall has a special place in my heart. When my husband and I went on our first camping trip we went to Vogel State Park. The very first hike we did together was Helton Creek Falls. Now every time I visit it it takes me back to that day we hiked to this beautiful gem in Blairsville, Georgia.  
  

• Anna Ruby Falls - This was a fun summer family trip. We headed out to visit the beautiful German town of Helen, Georgia. As we were headed out I was the sign for Anna Ruby Falls and told my husband that I heard the falls were beautiful there. He didn’t hesitate and decided to take a quick detour to the falls. Best detour ever. Anna Ruby Falls was so much more than what I was expecting it to be. 
  

• Ranger Falls at South Cumberland State Park - This photo is special to me because it reminds me of a special father-daughter moment that my dad and I had. During the rain we sat under a tree eating trail mix and talking about everything. We opened up to each other, laughed, shared life goals, and even bonded like never before. It was really good to have that time with my dad and be able to bond like that. It had been over ten years since we talked like that. 
  
   

Feel free to contact Jessica Tejera on social media:

1. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boricuachick89
2. Eco-Friendly Blog: http://www.thewalkingmermaid.com
3. Online Shop: www.thewalkingmermaidshop.com
4. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewalkingmermaidblog

Rafael Zavala - Clarksville TN Photo Ambassador

On today's blog I would like to introduce to you Rafael Zavala.

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and your background, where you are from etc.
My name is Rafael Zavala, I’m 24 years old. I live in Cheatham County with my wife and dog. I work in Nashville as a dental assistant, which I’ve been doing for 5+ years. Photography is my passion. It’s honestly the one art I can comfortably say I do ok with.

Q: What camera do you shoot with?
I started with a Canon Rebel T5, but now shoot with a Canon 80D.

Q: What is your “go to” lens?
Canon EF-S f 2.8 18-55mm USM
I love this versatile thing.

Q: How and why did you get into photography?
I’ve always been interested in photography but didn’t get my first camera till a few years ago. My wife actually gifted it to me for our first-year anniversary. For weeks, I couldn’t put that camera down. Of course, I made my wife my first “model” and was constantly taking photos of her. I then started getting into landscape and nature photography, which are still my favorite styles of shooting.

Q: What places, states or countries have you gone shooting?
I haven’t ventured far out of Tennessee just yet. I’ve shot a lot of places locally – Clarksville, Ashland City, Nashville. My first big destination outside of the area was The Great Smoky Mountains.  My most recent adventure was to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where I was able to capture “Kitchi-iti-Kipi” and the Mackinac Bridge.
I plan on traveling more, of course, but it’s tough with a full-time job and no time to do so!

Q: How often do you shoot and what is your favorite genre?
I feel I’m most active in spring and fall. I hate the heat, and it’s tough to shoot in the cold!
I try to shoot at least once a week when I’m in a rut. When I’m most active, I’ll shoot 3-5 times in a week.
Landscape photography is my favorite style of shooting.

Q: What is your favorite photo that you have taken and why? Please explain how you took it, was it all planned, if so, what was your planning process?
Ah, the golden question… this is such a tough one to answer. I like the quote by Imogen Cunningham, “Which of my photographs is my favorite? The one I’m going to take tomorrow.” There’s so much truth to this! (Granted, there are some images that end up being absolutely disappointing that you delete IMMEDIATELY after viewing on a bigger screen.) I’m constantly trying to do something different and avoid taking the same shot. This thought process, I feel, sharpens your eye and leads to better images.

I suppose I can say that currently, my favorite image is a shot I took in Northern Michigan of Mackinac Bridge. I had this image planned out in my head before I even left Tennessee. I knew exactly where I would stand, and that I’d make it a long exposure to soften the water. I got there and did just that. Honestly, things typically don’t work out that well. I guess I was lucky.

Q: What was the hardest thing you've learned in photography?
Another tough one! I’ve got two answers.
There’s the technical answer – Photoshop. Anyone who has attempted to use it can testify that its extremely intimidating at first. There’s still A LOT I have to learn about it that many consider basic, but I manage… for the most part. A good early lesson was to work non-destructively.

 The philosophical answer – “why does it matter?” I struggled (And still do) with this question. Why do we do it? Especially if our shots aren’t always getting the attention we think they deserve. It can be a bummer when you’re so excited about sharing a shot you are proud of but get no attention or exposure. It’s tough, but we have to swallow that pride and realize that we do it because we freaking love it. That is the only reason that truly matters. Not because 1 person double-tapped it, or 10,000 double-tapped. But because it resonates within you, and you’re passionate about this artform.

Q: What do you hope to still learn/improve?
I’m constantly trying to improve my composing of shots. It’s tough. Everyone always talks about the “rule of thirds” and so on, but I still struggle with it. Another thing I desperately need to improve on is the use of TTL flash. A majority of the time I attempt to use one, shots always have harsh shadows, or they’re overexposed. I tend to scrap these images and will rely on higher ISO, which can also be a slippery slope due to increased noise.

Q: What challenges you the most in photography?
This kinda goes hand in hand with an earlier question. I’d say myself. I constantly beat myself up and claim I’m not good enough, but I push through and keep creating. Photography isn’t just something I want to be ok in… truthfully, I want to make it my career. I use that ambition challenge myself to improve.

Q: What's one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out or early in their photography journey?
It’s cliché, but do not give up! Any photographer, be it a hobbyist or professional, will tell you that mastering photography takes time, a lot of patience, and practice. Never stop learning, and always push your creativity. If you feel like you’re in a rut, try something different. If you primarily shoot nature, try still-life or food photography. Get outside of your comfort zone and keep those creative juices flowing. Your technique and skills are constantly getting polished, and you’d be amazed at how something you learned in one genre of photography can apply within other genres.

Q: Can you please share some of your favorite photos – say 3 max. and why you like them.

• Mackinac Bridge, Northern Michigan – I drove 12 hours to get this shot, you better believe I made it worth that investment! The experience behind getting the shot was amazing on its own. It was late, (this shot was taken sometime around 12 am), there was a cool breeze and the waves were calmly crashing on the shore. I specifically love the soft glow around the bridge, and the soft reflection in the water.
  

• Country Road in Southern Clarksville – I frequent this spot as there’s so much to take in: country fence, clear view of the setting sun, gravel road, agricultural fields. With this particular shot, I was in love with the ethereal and painterly vibes I was able to capture due to golden hour, and a light fog. I love the texture in the damp gravel and the reflection of that puddle.
  

• Night Time in Clarksville TN  - This was my first attempt at urban photography. I’ve always loved long exposures of car lights, but until I took this photo, I hadn’t captured anything quite like this. I’m a huge fan of the colors you’re able to capture after dark; the contrast and the tones, too.
  

Feel free to contact Rafael Zavala on social media:

1. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rafa.zavala.77
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rafazavala93/
3. 500px: https://500px.com/rafazavala