
APC Featured Photographer of the Month – John Stafford
Looking for some photographic inspiration? Well look no further then the current members of the Ajax Photography Club. Each month a different APC member will be featured and we will provide a glimpse into their photographic life.
This month, the featured photographer is John Stafford.
Bio:
I am a teacher in Scarborough who has been a DSLR owner for many years who mostly took pictures of my daughters sporting activities. I would get some great shots and some awful shots without really understanding why. When my daughter started university, I realised that I had a great deal more time on my hands and needed to find a hobby that I enjoyed.
I decided to take photography more seriously and I started looking into college courses and was shocked at the prices so I decided to check out camera clubs. I found the Ajax Photography Club about 4 years ago and took all of their introductory courses and finally understood how to use my camera. I have upgraded to a Nikon D800 and fitted myself with a variety of lenses and filters. Through courses and workshops I have learned a tremendous amount and my photography has improved greatly.
- How would you describe your photographic style?
I am more of a passive photographer in that I don’t like to stage scenes or do portraits. I enjoy wildlife and landscape photography the most. I’m not sure I have an actual style, but I like pictures that are sharp and have a lot of drama. - Which photographer is your biggest inspiration?
I would have to say that Ansel Adams is my biggest inspiration because I was immediately drawn to his work long before I became interested in photography. I do not know or study photographers but that is something I might pursue more in the future. - How long have you been interested in photography?
I have been using a DSLR for over 20 years, but have only taken it seriously for 4 years. - What was your first camera?
My first camera was a probably a disposable Kodak when I was a kid, but my first real camera was a Nikon D40. - What is your dream photo trip?
My dream trip would be one of the cruises offered by National Geographic. They travel to photographic destinations with National Geographic photographers. I think the trip to the Galapagos would be the preferred one for me.
You can view more of John’s work on our Meetup site.