Q&A with Photographer Richard MacDonald
With over 22 years of experience in aerial photography, aerial video, and commercial photography, Richard leads the pack by setting the standards and using state-of-the-art equipment, computers, and photo editing software. As a two-time Emmy award winning cinematographer, his work is recognized globally.
Before his release on Thursday, get to know photographer Richard MacDonald and take a sneak peek of a few of the many stunning photographs that will be available exclusively on our site when the full release drops July 1st at 9 am EST!
What inspired you to start your video and photography work?
When I was a Freshman at a local college I took a photography course and immediately feel in love with it. This was in 1992.
What time of day is your favorite to shoot and why?
Early in the morning. I'm an early riser so getting up isn't difficult. I love watching the city or location I am shooting wake up. Small things like watching lights turn on in homes or people coming out to walk their dog or go for a run really spark my interest. It's my "watching the city wake up" time.
What are your favorite subject(s) to shoot?
Chasing another aircraft or vehicle from the helicopter or shooting the sites in the Washington DC No Fly Zone. There's a real rush of knowing only a few people around the world can do this.
What makes your work different from others? What style do you try to achieve with your work?
Talking with the client prior to shooting is key to ensure I get a better understanding of the client's vision. Reviewing past similar images or video that's been done and finding a different angle to capture it. I have a saying; when you are walking around taking photos, stop every once in a while and look behind you, most of the time that best shot is behind you.
What does photography mean to you?
It is about being the messenger. The beauty is out there, your job is to find it and share it with others.
Exactly what it is you want to say with your photographs, and how do you actually get your photographs to do that?
You want one image to tell a whole story. One you can sit back and understand what the photographer saw and/or what it took to capture that image.
What technology/software/camera gear do you use to keep focused on what you do best, as you photograph?
Nikon still cameras and RED, Lumix, and Sony for video. I use Adobe Lightroom and Final Cut Pro for editing software.
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