Justine Matchett

Justine was born in Durham in 1971 but now lives in Low Fell with husband Gordon. She is a Town Planner by profession and works in private practice in Newcastle. In addition to photography Justine’s hobbies are travel and riding her horse.

Justine says, “I’d rather try and get it right in camera than spend hours on a computer – gives you more time for more photography”.

MY PHOTOGRAPHY

As a relative newcomer to photography I am trying to explore as many areas as possible. The large majority of my shots seem to be animals or people but, working in the development industry, I also appreciate good architectural images.

THE  BIGGEST INFLUENCE

The biggest influence was probably my dad who always seemed to have a camera in his hands when I was growing up. Now it’s my husband who offers me the encouragement, carries my camera bag and tripod and waits patiently whilst I set up shots.

MY FIRST CAMERA

The first camera I remember using was my dad’s Agfa Silette Pronto-LK. That was followed by a range of compact cameras and then in 1994 I was given a Canon EOS 100 SLR. That’s when my love of photography really started.

MY FAVOURITE CURRENT KIT

Since 1994 when I was given my first SLR I have been loyal to Canon. I now use an EOS 50D, with an EOS 350 as a backup. My everyday lenses are a Canon 24-105mm and a Canon 70-200mm. I also use a Sigma 150 – 500mm which is fantastic for sports and wildlife photography. I have also recently bought a Sigma 10-20mm.

MY FAVOURITE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Growing up I was inspired by Lewis Morley and his style of black and white portraiture. These days I particularly love the work of Tim Flach who specialises in photographing animals; I consider his book “Equus” to be one of the most beautiful photographic books I have ever seen. Check out his work at www.timflach.com

ME AND THE DPS

I joined DPS in January 2009 and have made an effort to enter as many competitions as possible with my very limited library of shots. I was awarded a highly commended in my first competition as well as two 2nds in print and projected image competitions.

THE 3 THINGS I ENJOY MOST BEING A MEMBER OF THE DPS

The assignment groups – an excellent opportunity to get out and about with, and learn from, other photographers as well as make new friends.

The speakers – an opportunity to learn from some of the best photographers in the country.

The competitions – I have a competitive streak and like to think that perhaps one day I will eventually win something!

 THE PEARL (Advice to budding photographers)

Concentrate on getting the image right when you take it rather than spending hours processing on a computer.  Photoshop is a fantastic tool but too much reliance on it can make you a lazy photographer.