Project Scouted photographer profile: Caroline Burne

Lee Folkard Photography asked Caroline a few questions ahead of her photo session to get a little insight into who she is and what her photography process is like.

Lee Folkard Photography: What was your inspiration to begin photography and how did you start off in the business?

Caroline: I only got into photography in my late twenties. My boyfriend was photographing the scene at the time and I was instantly drawn to it. I bought a Nikon D60 and started taking photos socially at nightclubs. Two months later, I sold my little D60 and upgraded to a D300 and haven’t looked back since. I reached a point where I felt it was important that I learnt the fundamentals in order to move forward. So I went to Vega and completed a year of studies, after which I began working for a studio.

LFP: How did you become involved in Project Scouted and what motivated you to be a part of it?

Caroline: I met with Lee to talk about being a part of the Project. I really like what he is doing for Durban’s creative community.

LFP: When photographing people, what is your process? What's your favourite aspect to capture?

Caroline: I like trying to create something complex out of otherwise ordinary, simple elements. When you are able to evoke an emotion rather than just an expression, you’ve achieved your goals and I think it reflects in your work.

LFP: What inspires you artistically?

Caroline: The pioneer photographer, Ansel Adams said, “You don't make a photograph just with a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, the people you have loved.”

LFP: Has Durban always been your home? What do you love most about Durban?

Caroline: I’m a born and raised Durban girl. It’s hard to say what I love the most. When you've lived in one city all your life, you form a love/hate relationship with it. One minute you pack your bags and get one foot out the door and the next you’re hugging your pillows promising you will never leave.

Caroline's passion for photography is clearly evident and she has the talent and drive to match. It’s always refreshing to see more photographers who bring depth and intellect to their work. Be sure to keep an eye on the Facebook page for her and the other featured photographer’s pics.

Location vs. Studio Shooting

“Landscape photography is the supreme test of the photographer.”

-       Ansel Adams

Once upon a time, only the elite few made it into the realm of professional photography, and these professionals almost always had a studio. However in the digital age we currently live in, you can find a photographer on practically every street corner. But not all these photographers have their own studio. Some people question the professionalism of those photographers known as “on-location” photographers. But here are just a few ways on-location photography can be more powerful than studio shots.

A studio setting often creates a bit more anxiety, tension and a feeling of being trapped. It doesn’t matter if the session is for kids or adults, getting your photo taken can be stressful. There’s the worry of how you look, a new place, a person you don’t really know, whether your kids are going to behave, and so on. But for some reason meeting at a location you choose and often outdoors seems a lot more relaxed and a lot less intimidating.

This reduction in stress makes an on-location session much more fun than a studio session. Another benefit of on-location photography is that it gives you a chance to pick a location that holds meaning for you. It puts you in a picturesque location that will trigger an emotional connection every time you look at your photos.

Of course there’s also the benefit of natural props. In a studio you’re most likely sitting on stools or standing on boxes to create this perfectly organized group of people. But in an on-location session you’ll be utilizing the things that are present at your location. It may a tree, a bench, a little cafe table, or maybe it’s just the ground. Using these natural pieces makes your photos seem more like they framed a moment in your life. They weren’t posed; they were a spontaneous capture of your life.

While studio photography will always be a beneficial option, and sometimes a far better option than an on-location shoot, for those who prefer to maintain complete control of their session, on-location photography is becoming a much greater factor in professional photography sessions. Whether it’s for family photos, senior sessions, or portraits, you just can’t beat the natural beauty and simplicity of the great outdoors.