Photographer: Shane Sheppard
Studio: Fine Heart Photography
Instagram is a fantastic platform full of creatives producing awe inspiring work. For us, what we find exciting and inspirational are the collaborations between models and photographers. It’s a symbiotic relationship that when it works well, the end results are spectacular. At Hera we’ve conducted interviews with models and cosplayers, but we also want to know about the creatives behind the lens too. In this interview we talk to Shane of Fine Heart Photography.
Who or what inspired you to take up photography?
Photography wasn’t my first thought for a career path initially, I always wanted to be a film maker directing, writing and producing film and video content. When I realised that a lot of practical skills were interchangeable between professions, I became passionate about photography on that realisation, so much so it took precedence over film making.
What is it that makes you happy with an image?
Capturing a natural moment however staged the environment . Anyone I work with, will find I have a very laid back honest approach to photoshoots.
I try to perpetuate a collaborative natural and easy environment to shoot in achieving the best natural images that only come from the model being completely at ease and trusting. Which is evident in the result and the reviews I receive from my peers.
Could you take us through your creative process?
I spend a lot of time on pre shoot communications making sure everyone involved understands what we want to achieve and if they are comfortable with the shoot conceptually. I use mood boards, ideas boards and image examples a lot of the time from one form of inspiration or another a lot of the time inspiration is cinematic or illustrative. Other times it can be a model that becomes a muse for an idea with a particular style or look. I even do test shoots sometimes to flesh out some of those ideas.
Gear question, Nikon or canon, and what’s your go to lens?
I use a Canon 5D mark IV and my go to lens is a 50mm 1.2f prime lens it’s creates such beautiful bokeh, super sharp images in focus and works so well in low light. On the Canon Vs Nikon debate I’m agnostic you choose what camera you enjoy using and produces images you love. My preference is Canon as that’s what i’m at home with.
Do you think social media like Instagram has made it easier or harder for photographers?
Harder to get noticed as i am not a traditional photographer. However it is easier for collaboration with new models, MUA’s and new contacts.
What has been the most challenging shot you’ve taken, and why?
I’ve never really been challenged by the technicalities of photography so much. The challenges are in front of the camera, capturing something natural and enigmatic like lighting in a bottle. The post photoshoot creative work can sometimes be challenging too such as skin tone and colour. I can be a bit of a perfectionist and get in my own way sometimes.
What’s the best bit of advice you’ve been given?
Never take yourself too seriously…
This has allowed me to create some wonderful images, contacts and friendships while working as a photographer.
Are there areas of photography you haven’t dabbled in but would like to?
Yes, there are plenty!
I would like to do something for a gallery in a narrative story telling form around a particular subject or topic. Currently I am looking in to complex compositing, incorporating computer generated 3D assets and environments in and around live action models. There is always so much to learn and create! it’s very exciting.
Which assumptions about photographers do you find annoying, if any?
That all photographers have ulterior and shady motives, it’s a very common misconception when people don’t understand or are new to the art form or industry. I’m very lucky! All my experiences are positive, creating great images, creative and professional collaboration and sometimes lasting friendships.
What’s been the nicest compliment you’ve had on your work?
That I have made someone feel and look beautiful.
I can’t ask for more than that…
We would like to thank Shane for taking time out to do this, and if you’d like to see more of Shane’s work:
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