The Regulars: An Interview with Sheryl MinnettPhotographer: Sheryl Minnett of Kevin & S

The Regulars: An Interview with Sheryl Minnett

Photographer: Sheryl Minnett of Kevin & Sheryl Photography 

Type of Photos Taken: Wedding & lifestyle, now venturing into wildlife & travel

Website:www.kevinandsheryl.ca

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I am a country girl turned city, slowly making my way to all ends of the globe.  I consider myself lucky to share my passion for photography, travel, and nature with my husband and partner in work, play, and life.  

What drew you into photography?

I think photography found me rather than the other way around. Close to 20 years ago, I saw a need for story telling through image while I was volunteering with a small NGO in Mali, West Africa. So I took it upon myself to get a camera, take some classes, and work on my skills. Then for a number of years I provided the organization with the promotional images they needed to support their work. The rest, as they say, is history.

What is your philosophy regarding photo taking? Any personal rules you stick to?

I like to think that respect is one of the values that guides me in everything I do. Whether I am photographing people, places, wildlife or other natural elements, it is important to me to respect the subject, other people I may be working with, the environment around me, and the opportunity I have been given to be part of that moment.  

Tell us about a photographic challenge you overcame?

There are always challenges in photography and constant room for growth and learning.  For me, taking a photograph requires solving a series of problems in order to achieve the result that you want. Often times things are beyond our control, so we need to be able to think on our feet and to adapt. Personally, I would say one of the ongoing hurdles I deal with is remaining open minded, trying new things and not being afraid to make mistakes.  These things are so important because that’s when the learning happens.

What is one thing you could not go into a shoot without?

I like to have a plan and be prepared. For a wedding that might mean mapping out in advance where I want to do various sets of photos and envisioning what I want to do. Regardless of the type of shoot, having a plan and being prepared always means ensuring my gear is prepped and ready to go, and continually working on my craft so that I can reasonably manage whatever situation comes my way.

What gear do you prefer to shoot with?

I have always used Canon gear. Right now I am shooting with the 5D Mark III, with lenses ranging from 16mm up to 600mm.  I also like the versatility of speed lights and the range of modifiers that can be used with them.

When did you first come to Downtown Camera? Anyone in particular you remember?

Both my husband and I have been coming to Downtown Camera for years.  The first person I met and purchased anything from was Harry Mac. Aside from the fact that we like to support local businesses, the main reason I kept coming back was that never Harry tried to sell us anything we didn’t need. He would always ask what we were trying to accomplish and would then look at options from that starting point. That was refreshing.