Ever since I can remember, I have loved taking photos of anything and everything. I was always the one taking the pictures rather than being in front of the lens. I remember when I got my first Kodak digital camera. I used that camera so much that I wore it out.
At the time I didn’t think of photography as being my career path of choice. After attending college for graphic design for two years, I felt empty. I didn’t feel comfortable with my major and decided to change my major to photography this past August. Taking the leap and starting this new journey is so exhilarating. I know that I’ve made the right choice and am so excited to learn all that I can.
I’ve never had any formal training although I’ve taken one photography class. I’ve taught myself all about digital photography while the Intro to Photography class that I’m in now has taught me film. I’ve worked with film before but now I own my own 35mm camera and feel more comfortable with it.
When I got my Canon Rebel XT in high school, it was from there that I began to teach myself. I tried so hard and practiced as much as I could. While learning my camera I would use nature as my main subject. Going out and taking pictures of overlooked weeds and plants was so fulfilling.
I wanted to show people the beauty that they are missing. There are so many things in life that people walk by and overlook. We’re all so fast passed all of the time and need to take a moment and appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature.
It wasn’t until the beginning of this year, 2011, when I started to really take my photography seriously. I had foot surgery a few months ago and was laid up for over a month. I took that time to make a Flickr account and upload my photographs that I’ve taken throughout the years.
While being laid up I had the chance to explore Flickr and be inspired by so many wonderful photographers. Flickr is like a mecca of inspiration for me. Two lovely ladies I found on Flickr by the names of Rachael Putt and Karah Kobus, are who inspire me the most.
Their conceptual work really spoke to me and is what drove me to try it myself. I love getting to use my imagination and tell a story through my work. Whether it’s other photographers, lyrics from a song, or going on an adventure, I tend to find inspiration everywhere.
I have a passion for conceptual self-portraiture and nature photography. As I mentioned above, I attend college for photography now. I look forward to learning as much as I can and pushing myself with my photography. I hope to either own my own business one day or join a team of great nature or wedding photographers.
Persistence is key and with that said I will never stop practicing and trying to improve my work. I’m currently saving up for a Canon 5D Mark II and will have a party when I can finally purchase it! I’m excited for what awaits me in my future and will enjoy every minute of my journey to get there.
LINKS:
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/valeriekasinskiphotography/
Facebook Photography Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Valerie-Kasinski-Photography/182471078474368
Tumblr: http://valeriekasinski.tumblr.com/
Great write-up. You’ve followed a similar path to myself… i studied graphic design too, and likewise found that it wasn’t for me. Keep saving for that 5D Mark II, it’ll be one of the best purchases you’ve ever made. Wonderful photos, especially like your self-portraits. Best of luck for the future… i’m pretty sure there’s a bright one ahead of you. 🙂
thank you so much! it truly means a lot to me. I can’t wait for the day I finally get that beautiful camera 🙂 good luck for the future as well!
Keep your passion alive! Keep striving to be the best and practice, practice, practice. Read the masters, photograph with other photographers, join a photo club and break out of the tradition after you know the rules!
I love my 5DmkII but more important invest into excellent lenses! You have a body for 2-5 years. A great lens lasts 25 years! I still photograph with lenses that are more than 30 years old and still very good!
One more thing: Have fun with your photography and start a photoblog!
Thank you for such kind words and taking the time to write them! It truly means a lot. I’m definitely going to keep practicing. My winter break from college is next week and I can’t wait to bond with my camera without distractions! and I’ll continue to save up for the 5D. I already have the 50mm 1.4 😉 so i’m exited to put the two together eventually! Thank you for such inspirational words – you’ve made my day brighter. I will definitely start a photoblog soon! I’m thinking of using Blogspot but I will have to see!
Thanks again! 🙂
Valerie