We recently interviewed Cecil County photographer, Laura Oliver, to learn more about her photography journey.
What type of photography do you specialize in or enjoy most?
I have such a great love and admiration for all animals (okay, except spiders) that my heart belongs to wildlife photography. On land. Under the sea. In the sky. It doesn't matter. I'm obsessed with them all (except the exception). However, I also love pushing the limits of my comfort and always on board to learn and perform new techniques; abstract, light tube painting (I actually teach workshops in the area in Spring, Summer and Fall), astrophotography, ICM (intentional camera movement). My biggest obstacle was learning how to photograph people but I now absolutely love the endless possibilities.
What inspired you to get into photography?
Not what, but who– my father. He was into photography and bought me my first camera at the age of 13. A Vivitar. He was diagnosed with lung cancer when I was in college and we started doing all the traveling we had not done prior due to financial reasons but that made him say screw it. I want to see the world. I still remember sitting in the back seat of the car as we drove the rim of the grand canyon being so bored as he would stop every 5 feet to take another picture because "this angle is better" but now I am that person. I'm constantly apologizing to friends and family for the stopping and shooting. Thankfully they aren't as bothered by it as my teenage self was.
Who are your biggest influences in photography?
My first few photo trips were with Art Wolfe, Franz Lanting and Tom Mangelsen so they were my initial influences. Recently, I've discovered Ami Vitale, Kristi Odom and Christina Mittermeier who have made me realize that there are ways that even a small fish like myself can make big impacts on how the world cares for and protects it's wildlife and planet so I have moved more from just wildlife photography into wildlife conservation, hoping to help make a positive impact on a world being destroyed faster than I could have though possible just 10 years ago.
Do you have a favorite piece of gear you can't live without?
Absolutely! My Spyder (note the name lol) camera holster. It allows me to gang my camera on my waist. I started using it because of back pain but I absolutely love having it so ready to go but having my hands completely free (to catch myself when I trip or fall)
What’s your favorite photography location or trip so far?
This has to be a toss up between Africa and Antarctica. If I could I would go back to both every year, I would. The animals in Antarctica don't know enough to be afraid of humans so they are so curious, they will walk right up to you and I love that about them. Africa just gets under your skin and as they say, you can leave Africa but Africa never leaves you.
See more of Laura's work on her website: daddysgirl.smugmug.com, and connect with her on Facebook and Instagram.
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