When it comes to taking scenic nature shots, Shane Thomas can tell you all about it. Thomas, who is a third-year economics and philosophy student, takes an interest in landscape photography. Most of Thomas’ photography is locally inspired.
The Medium (TM): What camera do you use? What is your “technique” for taking your shots?
Shane Thomas (ST): I am currently using a Samsung S8 for all my photos. I really would like to purchase a full-frame camera in the future so for now I will be continuing to use my phone until I can save up for one.
TM: Your Instagram page features mostly landscape shots. Why? Where is this interest stemming from?
ST: My Instagram page is mostly landscape shots because I actually went on a road trip with some of my friends and took pictures I thought would be cool. I guess for me, I like to take the time and look at my surroundings, and want to show people how I view the world around me. But the best part is editing the pictures for me, ‘cause what I see in the around me I can enhance with my imagination. I believe that all things have their own beauty in some way—you just have to see it.
TM: Are you thinking of branching off into a different field of photography?
ST: I actually been thinking about expanding into city pictures during the summer which would go on my current IG. I also have plans for making an IG for food and drinks and one for modeling, but will most likely wait ‘til I get a camera ‘til I venture into that.
TM: Can you explain the process you go through when taking your photos?
ST: This is kind of hard to answer. I don’t really have real process for taking pictures. I just observe my surroundings a lot, and when I see something cool I take a few shots and edit them on my laptop.
TM: What has been a recent photography challenge for you? How did you handle it?
ST: The most recent challenge is just finding the time to actually go out and explore places to take new shots. For now, I’ve been just taking shots on the go, I’m just waiting for the summer to start so I can get back into it.
TM: What is advice you would give to other aspiring photographers?
ST: If you are aspiring to be a photographer, I say you first have to decide on what you want to take photos of and then start taking them. Also try to be creative as possible and don’t be afraid to experiment new things. It takes time to learn and develop the skills so there is no need to rush into it. But lastly, just enjoy the whole process. If you don’t enjoy it, then there’s no real point to it. Do the things in life that make you happy.
