We recently spoke with a talented photographer called Avion @athomasphotography, we would put his portrait work up against any other photographer found here on Instagram.
Portraits are sometimes overlooked on Instagram, so Launch Dsigns is pleased to present this talented shooter that has mastered the art of portrait shooting for our Behind the Viewfinder series.
Whats your style of photography, what type of images do you identify with most?
My style of photography is a mixture of cinematic storytelling and natural spontaneity. The type of images I identify with most would be Portrait and Landscape.
Who are the photographers influenced you?
A few photographers that influenced me would be; William Johnson of MAIIGO Photography Chavel Thomas of @dotkidchavy and Michael Woloszynowicz of VibrantShot Photography
Do you think that photography is an art form?
It most definitely is an art form.
What technology (camera) do you use?
I use the Canon 5dmk3
What motivates you to continue taking pictures.
What motivates me to keep taking pictures is the fact that I have the ability to create and capture moments in an image that can be remembered year after year.
Which is your favorite lens? Why?
The Sigma 85mm 1.4 is my favorite lens. It’s my favorite because I absolutely love the background compression I get with it. It also allows me to move in closer or step back and include more of the background.
What camera gear do you wish you had? Why?
Sigma 85mm 1.4 because it’s an improved version of my current 85mm
Do you use Adobe Lightroom for edits? If so what presets do you use? Your own or downloaded/purchased.
No, I do not use Adobe Lightroom I use primarily Capture One with Photoshop.
How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?
I educate myself through tutorials and practice. I am constantly looking at the way images are lit and how that lighting was achieved.
Among your works, which one is your favorite? Why?
I would say my ‘Queen & Empress’ Series is my favorite. It’s my favorite because it encompasses both landscape and a model both of which add to the other.
What role has Instagram played in your photography/designs?
Instagram has definitely played a helping role to shape my photography and allow me to share my work with a vast amount of people that I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to connect with.
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
The one thing I wish I knew when I started taking photos would be how to see light.
What makes the good picture stand out from the average?
What makes a good picture stand out from the average would be a few things; lighting, storytelling, emotion.
What first drew you to photography?
I always had a love for photography but I never had actual equipment so I would always use my phone. Then I was asked to take pictures at a club and they provided the camera and since that day I haven’t put down the camera.
When you’re out shooting—how much of it is instinctual versus planned?
For me it’s 50/50. Proper planning and execution are needed but sometimes you go with your instincts and trust your gut to get the shots you need.
Where are you from, where do you live?
I am from the Caribbean island of St. Kitts, and I live in Oklahoma.
Follow Avion on Instagram @athomasphotography
