Today is the first installment of Featured Photog Fridays here at CPLF.  Every Friday we’ll feature the work and a Q+A with a photographer who’s work is inspiring.  No one better to launch us off than Sandra of Sandra Hill Photography from Brantford Ontario Canada!  Enjoy her stunning newborn work!
Q. How did you get into photography?
I have always had a love for art. Portraits in particular. When I had more time (before having 4 kids) I was always drawing and sketching. I got my first film SLR when my oldest was born, 12 years ago. I have loved photography ever since. I realized how similar art and photography were and it became my new passion.
Q. How long have you been in business?
10 months. I officially registered my business in June 2011.
 
Q. What do you specialize in?
Newborns! That’s my passion. I love capturing the “newness”. I think I have the patience it takes to work with newborns…’cause it’s not easy ;)   I also love to photograph the older babies, sitting stage is really fun!
Q. Natural light v. flash?
I use only natural light. I love the look of natural light. I don’t even own a flash, I wouldn’t have a clue what to do with it.
Q. Tell us about your studio set up.
My sweet husband allowed me to steal his brand new garage away from him before he even got to park in it! We put an addition on our house, and I hadn’t even planned on using it for a studio yet. Once I got my business going I quickly realized how important it was to have a studio space to photograph newborns in. Thats when the light bulb went off..brand new garage calling my name. It allows me to use a lot of things that other photographers can’t use when they go on location to the clients home. It also allows me to understand and get comfortable with my lighting. I always know what lighting I will have waiting for me. That’s something you never know when you go into someone else’s home. We put a big 3 panel patio door in the opening where the garage door was. It is a South facing door, which isn’t ideal, but I can make it work :)
Q. Tell us about your camera gear. Any gear on the wish list?
I am a Nikon girl :) I have the D700. The lenses I have are the 50mm f/1.4, 35mm f/1.8, and the 60mm macro
I’d love to get a lensbaby just for fun!
Q. How do you describe your style and approach to newborn photography?
Stylized. I love to look at lifestyle type photography, but I really like a stylized portrait. I like some soft newborn images, but I also really like to get in some contrasty and moody type images as well. I think that comes from being an artist at heart, my portrait artwork was big on shadows and contrast. Thats what really gives me butterflies. Those are the images that always make me stop and stare.
Q. Do you have a favorite pose, prop, or blanket?
I love simplicity. Some of my favourite images have no props at all. Maybe just a simple hat or headband if anything. I think too many props take away from the beauty of a fresh newborn baby. My favourite pose is the bum up in the air. This pose is what drew me into newborn photography. Can’t get any cuter than a newborn bum!
Q. Who are your photography inspirations?
Keri Meyers would be my biggest inspiration.. She is the first newborn photographer that i stumbled upon, and fell in love with. Every single image of hers is amazing. She is what made me want to do this type of photography. I also love Kelly Ryden and Tracey Raver of course!
Q. Any parting words for those just starting out?
Join flickr. That is what has got me to this point. So much information, good people and support!
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Thank you so much for sharing with us, Sandra!!
Sandra Hill Photography
Connect with Sandra on Facebook!
PS.  If you’d like to be featured, please send your information and a link to your work to contact@photographylegalforms.com