Interview with Tara

Tara 

How did you become interested in Photography?

I was always interested in Photography and using Camcorders. I got my first camera when I was about 8.

Have you always worked as a wedding photographer?

No. I worked as a press photographer. I also worked as a studio photographer in Pixi Photos and I  worked in an Art Gallery as an assistant director.

Where did you study?

Firstly, I studied Art Craft and Design in Kerry College of Further Education. Then I went onto GMIT to study Fine Art and specialised in Sculpture. I’ve also done several courses on Photography in London, Spain, Scotland and worked with other photographers before starting out on my own.

What was your first camera?

I can’t remember my very first camera as I was only a child! But my first semi-professional camera was a Canon 350.

What make of camera have you now?

Canon 5D – mark 2’s and mark 1’s.

What do you enjoy most about your career?

Meeting people. Every day is different and there is no routine. I’m allergic to routine 🙂

What do you enjoy least about it?

Accounts!!

Have you any advice for someone interested in becoming a photographer?

Do as many courses as possible – you can never learn enough. Things keep changing, there are always new cameras, new techniques etc. We still go for training at least once a year!

Any advice for setting up a business in general?

Get a good Accountant. Talk to others in a similar business. Research – particularly market research. Is there enough work in the area to justify setting up in business in a particular location? There’s no point in 6 photographers setting up in the same area if there isn’t enough work to justify it.

How do you market your business?

Online, Bridal magazine adverts e.g. Brides of Kerry, Confetti. Real wedding features in different magazines, where they feature one of our weddings is always fantastic! Car signage, wedding shows and most importantly referrals!

Have you ever had any strange requests as a photographer?

I have been asked to do so many random things I can’t share! Some you just have to laugh at!

Have you photographed any celebrities?

Yes. President Michael D Higgins. The Healy-Raes and some other TD’s

What do you do in your spare time?

Sleep and Yoga!! I also try to get out and walk the dogs and spend time with my 5 year old son, Cailean

What’s your favourite movie?

I don’t really have one.

What’s your favourite drink?

Red wine – when I’m not pregnant!

What’s your favourite food?

Probably Spaghetti Bolognese.

What’s your favourite music?

Easy listening/Acoustic music

What two things would you bring to a desert island?

My child and a bottle of red wine!!

Have you a favourite saying/phrase?

It’s nice to be nice! (but hard to be good looking – Dave added that!)

Have you any dreams for the future?

To retire LOL and go to the desert island with my family!