it was right in the beginning of last month as we discovered some very interesting images. We then looked critically the entire flickr stream of photographer Donna St. Pierre and there were numerous other images, that have found our attention. Donnas images are distinguished by their warm colors and soft design, what has really appealed to us. Hence we like to show you some of her pictures here in the magazine and give you an insight into the work of photographer Donna St. Pierre. |
Donna, please tell us a little bit about yourself to begin with. (How old are you, Where were you born and where do you live now, What is your profession and do you have other besides photography?
I am 56 years old. I was born in Providence, RI USA. I currently reside in Warwick, RI.. Besides photography, I draw, paint and mentor on occasion.
Have you been involved in the arts in some form other than photography?
I was a creative child, drawn to the visual arts. I would sketch, draw and paint ( using various mediums). People, animals and abandoned buildings were among my favorite subject matters. I lived in an urban area, so sitting on a wall sketching people waiting at the bus stop for example, was something I did on a daily basis.
I am 56 years old. I was born in Providence, RI USA. I currently reside in Warwick, RI.. Besides photography, I draw, paint and mentor on occasion.
Have you been involved in the arts in some form other than photography?
I was a creative child, drawn to the visual arts. I would sketch, draw and paint ( using various mediums). People, animals and abandoned buildings were among my favorite subject matters. I lived in an urban area, so sitting on a wall sketching people waiting at the bus stop for example, was something I did on a daily basis.
Seeing your remarkable work, I am curious where your creativity comes from?
Ideas would come to me and I'd just sketch away. A way of expressing my deepest emotions.
Could you share with us how you first became interested in photography?
For me, it was exploring another art form. I was shooting & developing my own film, as well as printing in the darkroom. Eventually, I went digital. Street, people, fashion, location hunting, in which I enjoy shooting the landscapes are my favorite these days. I feel I am on a new journey, and have found that street fashion in particular is a passion of mine that I would like to further pursue.
What equipment are you using now and with what did you get started? what is your favorite lens?
I've had / used a lot of different cameras. Made & used pinholes, used 35mm SLR's, medium formats, holga... One of my favorite old cameras was a Nikon FM 10 35mm SLR. I had used a compact Olympus digital camera, as well as a Canon Rebel T3i when first going digital. Right now I mostly use my Canon 60D. My favorite lenses are my 85mm f/1.8, 24-70mm f/2.8, &12-24mm f/4.
Can you tell us about your work flow from the point you first step onto the street until you showcase the developed picture?
With regard to my model shoots, I collaborate with the model on wardrobe, makeup, accessories, location, etc. before hand. I always keep a relaxed, casual atmosphere during the shoot. It should be a good experience and stress free for sure. I love to get the most natural looking photos as can be. I go through the photos after the shoot with the models and get an idea for which ones they like the best. From there I choose the best ones to edit. I then edit using photoshop.
Do you see a particular influence, be it a photographer or school on your work? Any subject that attracts you?
I'd have to say my influences have been my environment and my personal take on life. I am a dreamer by nature and my mind sees moments in life as a painting or photograph. I'm always envisioning even the most mundane surroundings as a work of art. I also consider my art therapy, which has kept me going through the rough patches in my life. I am particularly attracted to people and street / urban environments.
What would you say characterizes your work in comparison to other photographers?
I create each image as a unique, stand alone piece. I seem to feel a certain emotion from that particular image and run with it. A lot of my enjoyment of photography is the creating / editing part...especially lately for one reason or another.
Among your works, which is your favorite and why?
One of my favorite shoots were with the model Nicole. We saw eye to eye and had a fabulous time tearing up the city of Providence....lol....ending up in a beautiful church in the city...and doing some impromptu shooting....one of the images is actually one of my favorites. It is a memory of a wonderful day / shoot. This is the image. Nicole is the small figure near the alter. |
Tell us your funniest or most awkward photography story.
Well, continuing on the subject of the shoot with Nicole....we were shooting in the inner city and a wandering / homeless old man ( He lives at a local shelter ), very harmless comes up to us and ask to take a picture with Nicole, I obliged. I took a few shots with the two of them....it made his day. That's what I love about street shooting, anything can happen.
What would you tell a newcomer who asks for your advice on how to start?
Well, have fun, be creative. You don't need super expensive equipment to start or to create amazing images / art. Passion and vision is all that is needed. The rest will fall into place. Oh and practice, practice, practice! There is plenty of info out there on the internet, take advantage of it!
Well, continuing on the subject of the shoot with Nicole....we were shooting in the inner city and a wandering / homeless old man ( He lives at a local shelter ), very harmless comes up to us and ask to take a picture with Nicole, I obliged. I took a few shots with the two of them....it made his day. That's what I love about street shooting, anything can happen.
What would you tell a newcomer who asks for your advice on how to start?
Well, have fun, be creative. You don't need super expensive equipment to start or to create amazing images / art. Passion and vision is all that is needed. The rest will fall into place. Oh and practice, practice, practice! There is plenty of info out there on the internet, take advantage of it!