We are so excited to tell you all about our most recent winner of our fall camera giveaway! Benjamin Howen was the lucky winner of a Nikon D810! Congrats Benjamin!
Benjamin has always had a love of photography but really started learning and perfecting his craft in 2010. Read below for some other great information about Benjamin, his business and his passion for photography!
How did you first get into photography?
"I would say it all started at age 10 when my grandmother gave me my first 35 mm point and shoot. I always enjoyed taking snap shots. It was not until 2010 when after having some photos rejected by an online stock site that I started to actually research and learn more about Photography and all the different tech aspects of it. I purchased my first DSLR in 2012.
What is your favorite thing to photograph?
"For as long as I can remember I have always had a fascination with the tiny things in our world. I like to get down and up close with nature, everything from bugs to mushrooms, or even miniature landscape. I also enjoy photographing muscle cars, beautiful women and food."
What type of style would you say fits you best?
"I don't feel I have actually developed a specific style yet, I am still studying and finding my way. I can say that when shooting at events I am most comfortable on the outskirts with a long lens. I like to capture candid images when people don't know the camera is pointed at them, there is a more genuine feel to them. I tend to lean toward a sharp, edgy, high contrast look when editing portraiture. As an artist I relate to abstract expressions."
What is your most favorite shoot you have ever had and why?
"My second high school senior shoot was my favorite. It was for a close friend. Their is an awesome kid and was very easy to work with, which was great because I was pretty nervous about my inexperience."
What was your first reaction when you found out you won the camera?
"Disbelief. I very seldom win such big prizes. I had to read the email about 5 times before it even started to sink in. The reality of it didn't actually hit me until the camera was delivered."
Are there any other fun or interesting facts about yourself that you would like to share?
"I am graphic designer and owner of a promotional products and apparel business, providing screen printed and embroidered items to small businesses and local schools. I enjoy creating artistically in many forms including digital, paint, drawing, print, wood working, etc. Due to my artistic talents, it often amazes people to hear that I have a red/green color deficiency which effects how I see those 2 colors as well as other colors that are made with red or green."
What do you think of the Nikon D810 now that you have received it?
I chose the Nikon as I already own Nikon lenses and equipment. I love the camera, it is my new baby! I really look forward to learning about all its capabilities."
You can see more about Benjamin and his company Blackmarx Photo at photos.blackmarx.com, on Facebook or on his profile on 500px.com.
