October 14th, 2010
I love Lillian Barrows’ photography because she shoots them at locations across the Bay Area, Napa, and while traveling, but also because she shoots two of my favorite things: food and wine! Check her work out on her Facebook or her website, Food & Wine Photos!
When did you become interested in photography?
My mother always had a camera around. And I mean ALWAYS. She always used Canon’s too. I played with it every now and then, much to her lecturing me not to come near it. But it wasn’t until I got to high school that I wanted to dive into photography. I took a Beginner Photography class and wanted more. Once I had the option to close my electives, I chose Advanced Photography. My mom, very lovingly, let me use her camera until I was able to buy one on my own. From that point on, I was in love.
What equipment are you currently using to photograph?
Thanks so my darling husband, I have a Canon Rebel XTi with its standard kit lens. I also have a 28-135 lens which I primarily use and I adore it (thanks again to my husband). I do want a fixed lens soon though. I also use my Canon Elph (point-and-shoot) as well as my iPhone. It’s all about the person behind the lens.
What is your opinion on the way photography has changed with the arrival of digital photography?
I think digital cameras have done wonders to the photography world. The fact that you can see the image that is already in your mind immediately is unbelievable. I personally don’t think photography would be where it is now, if it wasn’t for digital photography.
Do you prefer digital photography or traditional photography?
That’s a hard question. I do love traditional film photography. It’s what I learned on. I actually truly miss developing my own film and playing with the ‘ingredients’. I miss being in the dark room. I miss ‘watching’ my picture appear on the paper. But there is something unbelievable about seeing your image instantly. I love taking up to 32 GB of pictures and not worrying about carrying extra film and worrying about how much it will cost to develop. I take more pictures knowing I can take as many as I want in order to capture that perfect shot. If pressed, I would pick digital.
Is there anything in particular you like to photograph? Nature? Objects? People?
Ah, food and wine and things that naturally accompany that. That is what I prefer to shoot. I do take all kinds of pictures though. I fancy taking more unstructured, unconventional; more casual pictures rather than posed shots. I love to capture odd moments; ones that someone might normally miss.
What life experiences have influenced your photography?
I think the subject inspires me. This is written on my website: ‘are we good at what we like or do we like what we are good at?’ Either way, it helps me keep going. I love shooting what I shoot. With the love and support of friends and family, I will keep doing what I love.
What are your current and future plans? Do you have any projects you are currently working on?
I am trying to make my passion into a little business. I have posted some photos on Etsy to try and sell them. And I have linked Etsy to my Facebook fan page to get more exposure that way too.
What type of things motivate you and inspire you to continue in your work?
Just the fact that there are SO many restaurants and wineries out there keeps me motivated. I feel like there is always something new and fresh that’s out there that I can shoot.
What obstacles/issues can you run into when shooting?
Since I generally take pictures at restaurants and wineries, sometimes the lighting can be a little tricky. But I enjoy the challenge. I also, sometimes, get so excited about eating the delicious food before me, that I forget to take the pictures first. Now THAT can be a huge challenge!
Do you have a favorite photographer? Have any photographers influences your work?
Even though I mainly take photos of food and wine, I adore ALL kinds of photography. I am inspired by so many different kinds of art. Some of my friends are amazingly talented: Cindy Pedersen (http://www.wix.com/waveriders/gnarlymar), Deborah Harju (http://www.deborahjustinephotography.com), and Vance Taitano (http://www.flickr.com/photos/taitano), just to name a few. There are two New York-based food photographers that I really like too: Jerry Errico and Lou Manna. They are brilliant! I also love Galaxie Andrews’ style, Stephen Oachs’ amazing gift for taking photos of nature and wildlife, and the famous Ansel Adams. (see, I love all different kinds!)
What advice would you give to someone that is becoming interested in photography? What helpful tips could you give to a beginner?
I would tell them to reach out to those around them. I have such amazing support from my friends who are photographers which has been beyond encouraging. I have also utilized the internet and even some YouTube videos for help over the years. There is so much out there by way of resources, that you just need to have the drive to want to learn. I would also encourage beginners to play with their camera. Go out there and shoot!
Choose one picture that you feel is one of your absolute favorites. Describe it and how it was shot.
It was rather hard to decide which is my absolute favorite but I feel this is the one that I just always turn to out of all of them (photo: reflections). I shot this one at Hall in Rutherford. The reflection that came through onto the glasses from the table as they stood there was just beautiful. It was nothing that I set up…it was just something that happened. Those are the things that I love.
