Pizza

_6204702, originally uploaded by Mak Photo 13.

Interview with Photographer Marla Coyle

1. Why/How did you decide to become a photographer?

My first job as a senior in high school was at Olan Mills Portrait Studio. I was the receptionist but went in the portrait studio as often as possible to watch the photographer. After a few months I was doing the photography. I loved the combination of working with people and photography, thus portrait photography was perfect for me.

2. What advice do you have for an incoming photographer?

My advice for an incoming photographer would be to find a niche or specialty.

My definition of art, design, and craft

Art is a way to express ones self using imagination, creativity, and emotions to express ones self (ex. Painting, photography). There are no limits, boundaries, or set rules on how to express ones self and create. There are many styles in each medium and none are considered to be right or wrong. Different styles are reflective of the time period and of the artist themselves. Art is not only used to bring out ones own emotions, but to bring out emotions in others, whether it be an emotion like happy or sad, but emotions that influence one toward a particular view (ex. Politics).

            Design is art with limits. Limits meaning that one should keep in mind that when designing, they have to keep a certain audience in mind (whether they are designing for adults or children, an album cover or food logo). When one designs, it is to serve a purpose (ex. Skyscrapers, buildings, and advertising). Design, like art, can be used to stimulate certain emotions. However it is not accidental or used to express emotions, but rather to stimulate emotions for a reason (ex. Logos, ad campaigns, and colors). For example, if a local fine-dining restaurant were to create an ad with a casual or childish font, they would be giving the impression that it was a family-friendly dining environment. However, if they were to use a more elegant and/or formal font, it would give the viewer a clearer idea of the type of restaurant it was.

            Craft is a skill (ex. Wood carving, sculpture). Craft can be learned or it can come naturally (ex. Michelangelo and his sculptures). Even if it comes naturally, craft requires technique, and to obtain the technique to become a professional, one must study and put in a lot of hard work. It is a very precise and tedious task that takes much discipline.  Craft usually involves creativity and requires proficiency and accuracy.