Our interview with photography prodigy: Catherine Farquharson

She has the power to turn any face into one of sheer beauty – so it’s no wonder why her photography career is blossoming right now. But how does Catherine Farquharson do it? We had to ask (seeing as she’s remarkably unrelated to our head Cowgirl with the same name) and discover how we too can take a good photograph. We just need to think before we shoot, so to speak.

Pony: How did you get into photography?

Catherine: I had an art teacher in high school comment on a photo that I took. She said, “How did you know that would be a good picture?” From then on, I was hooked. I didn’t know how I knew it was a good picture — I still don’t — but I continue playing with the idea of finding out.

Pony: How has your style developed? Do you have a preference in terms of the subjects you photograph?

Catherine: I love photographing people. I find photography such a great way to connect with people, and a powerful avenue to communicate without words. I think my style has changed over the years as my comfort level with people has changed. I used to be much more shy, so I think the photos were more timid. Now, I feel like the camera is the excuse to break down those boundaries!

Pony: What’s your advice to someone interested in a photography career?

Catherine: Define what it is that you like to do. Don’t just say “Yes” to anything that comes your way. The more clear you are on what you like, the more likely those jobs are to come your way.

Pony: What are your tips for the average person taking photos on a holiday?

Catherine: When you are moved to take a picture of something while you are away, pause to ask yourself why. Once you can answer that, hone in on it, and then take the picture. The idea is to communicate – you want to be able to have people who weren’t on your trip be able to enjoy it just like you did.

Pony: What is your biggest challenge with photography?

Catherine: Like many arts, I think the biggest challenge is keeping your work fresh. The industry is flush with photographers, so the additional challenge is really tapping into your own source of creativity for new work, and not imitating. Inspiration from others is great, but often people blatantly copy, which I think defeats the challenge in trying to be truly creative or expressive.

Pony: Do you ever get sick of people asking you to take their photo?

Catherine: Only when I don’t like how they ask me. Sometimes people treat you like a photo-taking machine — take this, take that. It’s like they forget you are human. Then, I don’t love it so much. But that doesn’t happen as much as people engaging in the fabulous synergy of co-creation. So, it’s okay.

Pony: What’s the best photo you’ve ever taken?

Catherine: It keeps changing — I’m always trying to take the best photo I’ve ever taken.

To follow what Catherine’s up to now, check out her photo blog here.

XoXo
– The Cowgirls.

Documenting Life. Moment by Moment., 4.6 out of 5 based on 9 ratings

Category: Draw'hide, Latest Goods, Purebred Painters · Posted by: Mushy Pony Tagged: Catherine Farquharson, Documentographer, Photography, Toronto on Wednesday, February 10, 2010 · 2 Comments »