On this weeks Behind the Viewfinder we bring you @thanksjohn_ a versatile and creative shooter from California who goes from shooting nature and portraits to shooting street in the blink of en eye. His photos are richly colored, creative and unique. At @launchdsigns, we try to find the most talented and unique shooters on Instagram and John is definitely an exceptional shooter that deserver a place in your timeline.
Whats your style of photography, what type of images do you identify with most?
I don’t want to be identified with just one style of photography. I like to mix things up, however landscapes captures my attention the most.
Who are the photographers influenced you?
Fellow local photographers. When I started photography, I learned so much just by seeing how they shoot without even meeting them. They are @ashley_sprankles, @eric_scire and @djace17.
Is photography an art form?
Yes. What isn’t?
What technology (camera) do you use?
Sony A7 and Sony A7Rii
What motivates you to continue taking pictures?
In hope, that one day I’ll make someone get off their couch and see the good and bad the world has to offer.
Which is your favorite lens? Why?
Wide angle lens. It gives a dramatic look to pictures. Plus seeing more in a shot is always good.
What camera gear do you wish you had? Why?
A drone. I want that aerial shots!!!
Do you use Adobe Lightroom for edits? If so what presets do you use? Your own or downloaded/purchased.
I own and use Lightroom. I don’t use plugins or presets. I like to start my edits from scratch.
How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?
I watch photography tutorials on YouTube but the real lessons starts outside during a shoot.
Among your works, which one is your favorite? Why?
My favorite would be my shot of the Horseshoe Bend in Page, Arizona. I took a shot, looked at my monitor and that’s when I really succumbed to photography.
What role has Instagram played in your photography/designs?
It definitely played a major role in my photography. It’s very convenient to share photos and it has a great community of photographers.
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
How addicting it is and damn expensive haha
What makes the good picture stand out from the average?
There’s no such as thing as an average nor good photograph.
What first drew you to photography?
I’ve always wanted to travel back in time.
When you are out shooting—how much of it is instinctual versus planned?
I’m a planner.
Where are you from, where do you live.?
San Diego, California
Follow John on Instagram @thanksjohn_
