Continuing with our new series of 'Focus on the Photographer'. In this series we will interview and chat with various photographers from full time professionals photographers, hobbyists and maybe even people involved in the photography industry.
Our second photographer that we will chat with is Jason McCarthy. Jason is a great customer of ours here at Mahers Photographic. Jason specialises in fine art black and white photography and is also a professional wedding photographer. His work is well published and regularly awarded. Check out his websites and social profiles below.
https://www.weddingsbyjason.ie/
https://www.instagram.com/jason_mc_carthy/
https://www.instagram.com/weddingsbyjason/
Give him a follow while you are there. So here we go......
To Start... How did you get into photography?
My art teacher gave me a Craigie Horsfield book when I was 18. It was the first time I saw intense Black & White work, was inspired instantly!
Is there any one particular persons work that has influenced you most?
I can't say there's one person; it constantly changes! Lately, I'd say Dana Lixenberg and Judith Joy Ross. I'm a big photo-book collector. My favourite way to engage with photography.
What gear do you use and why?
I use the Canon EOS R6 as my commercial/wedding camera; it's more like a robot than a camera! :) With its eye detection and accurate focus - it never lets me down!
I use a Fuji X100V for everyday photography. It's great because it fits in my pocket - very intuitive to use. Such a fun camera!
I also work analogue. I use a Pentax 67 Medium Format camera, and I only recently got a Chamonix 5x4 Large Format camera. I like how these cameras force you to slow down, and I also like the analogue feel to the pictures.
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
What lens to use!!!
Have you a favourite lens (or ‘lenses’)?
It has to be the Sigma Art 35mm. Such a versatile lens, and 70% of what I shoot at a wedding are on it. Then the 105mm f2.4 lens for my Pentax 67. Very distinctive bokeh, great for portraits!
Is there one piece of camera equipment you wish you hadn’t bought or never use? Why?
I don't regret anything I've bought; it all gets used.
Do you take any essential items other than a camera and lens on a shoot with you?
My raincoat!
What do you use for post-processing and what’s your workflow like?
I use Adobe Lightroom; my process is very simple. I start by culling with a coffee! Then I make basic touch-ups, mainly colour correction and exposure adjustments - while listening to Techno! That's my usual routine! :)
Any final words of advice or wisdom?
Get inspired! Find work you connect with and learn from it. There's never been a better time to learn; many good photographers on Youtube sharing helpful tips, gear reviews, etc.
