Jonathan of Jonathan Stewart Photography

* Why you love photography?

“Photography mixes several of my passions: science, art and my love of gadgetry, as well as providing an opportunity to meet new people, and travel the world.”

* Your favorite type of photography?

“My favorite type of photography is travel photography. As a photographer, you’re always looking for the interesting composition; the huge cloudy sky, the reflection in the lake, the weathered, character-filled faces of the locals. Looking for that image forces you to be observant, inquisitive, to explore corners and see angles that a regular traveler might not. And sharing pictures with the locals is a great way to break the ice.”

* A funny/interesting photography story?

“I was once photographing lions in Africa when I got a bit carried away behind the lens and lost track of the fact that there were several sets of deadly jaws just a few feet away. The guide told us that if we moved slowly and spoke in whispers that the lions would confuse us for parts of the open Jeep, and totally ignore us. But I moved a bit too fast during a lens change, and all of a sudden the matriarch lion noticed me, perked up and gave me a stare that made every hair on my body stand on end and my heart beat through my chest. There was a moment — it seemed like a lifetime — where we weren’t sure if the lion would pounce. The guide whispered to not move an inch as he slowly started the Jeep and backed away to safety. It taught me to not lose myself behind the lens. There’s still a world out there that can hurt you.”

* Photography tips or tricks?

“When you see a fascinating person you want to photograph, don’t just jump out of the car or sling the camera out of your backpack and start clicking away. You might be able to get off one or two shots, but the best way to really capture somebody is to try to build a sense of confidence beforehand. Slowly walk over to them and ask them about what they’re doing, talk about the weather, tell them where you’re from. Even the most minimal level of communication, the language is not important, is often enough for them to feel comfortable consenting to let you take pictures, and oftentimes, showing them the results can lead to even more cooperation. And that cooperation makes it so much easier to get the composition you want. If they don’t want to be photographed, respect that. I carry a bag of sweets with me in the backcountry in Peru, and hand them out sometimes before I shoot, and then again after. Even a small token of reciprocity can go a long way.”

* Comments about your web site design?

“Smugmug is great because of the level of customer service they offer. You get the impression that they really care, and want your pictures to look fabulous. JR Customizations carries along that same philosophy.”

- Jonathan

Visit Jonathan Stewart Photography at Jonathan Stewart Photography to take a look at Jonathan’s photos!