Photographer Tim Stephenson

—First and foremost – whom can you name as the best photographer in Norwich, United Kingdom? :)

—Well, me.. obviously ;-)
There are many fabulous photographers in Norwich who I deeply respect and would be in the running for "best".. Not going to name names. I firmly believe everyone has their own niche and as we're all different, with different styles & approaches, we all get along brilliantly and life is good!

—Are you photogenic?

—Nope! Much safer behind the camera!

—How did you get in the photography industry?

—Have always loved photography from an early age and adore the fact I get to be a part of so many awesomely unique special days AND do what I love doing :)

—What are the most important components of a good photo in your opinion?

—It has to tell a story – if the image doesn't speak to you or trigger an emotional reaction, it's not "good" :)

—Do you love traveling?

—Yes! I love seeing new places.

—What do you like most about your profession?

—Being able to capture unique moments and making people happy!

—What do you like least about your profession?

—Editing and admin

—What will be the future of photography?

—Sadly I've worn out my crystal ball

—What is special in the photography genre you specialise at?

—Unique unrepeatable moments – no opportunity to simply do stuff again. Has to be right, first time, every time.

—How do you handle criticism?

—Willingly – firmly believe you should never stop learning and handling criticism / feedback is a vital part of that.

—Are there any trends in photography?

—Digital only – USBs are disappearing in favour of online galleries and am finding traditional group shots are less in demand this year than in previous. Much more of a trend towards fun, genuine documentary coverage.

—What should be the criteria for a customer to choose a photographer?

—You've got to get on with your photographer (we spend a LOT of time together on the day) and trust them to do what they do.

—What things are to be avoided when shooting?

—Disrupting the natural ebb & flow of events. Staging shots destroys realism.

—What details that usually pass unnoticed can a photographer notice?

—Artificial lighting colour & quality!!

—What influences the value of a photo? What are its elements?

—Strong composition, interesting subject, emotive content.

—Who do you want to take photos of?

—Happy people!

—Do you have any professional taboos?

—Don't think so.... Probably have something somewhere but we'll see!

—What do you worry about, and why?

—Missing something; gear failures, not getting to a wedding!

—Would you rather be liked or respected?

—Both? Probably respected but would happily accept liked.

—What is the biggest mistake you have ever made at work?

—Dropped a camera once... during morning preparations. Fortunately, it bounced.

—When you're going to travel, what do you take with you and why?

—Enough gear to cover most eventualities!

—Is there anything among your gadgets that you wish you haven't bought? Why?

—A massive, expensive, illuminated backdrop – had a vision of shooting studio images with clean white backgrounds... it's been in the garage for 3 years now.

—How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?

—Continually learning. Have to keep learning – blogs, social media, workshops; soaking up everything I can to further my craft.

—What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?

—You won't be perfect from day 1.

—If you could go back in time, what would you do differently?

—Start shooting professionally earlier

—What about life on other planets?

—It must be out there.... somewhere!

—What do you do in your spare time?

—Edit & catch up on life/family!

—When are you completely satisfied with your work?

—Never.. when that day arrives it's time to hang up the cameras.