Welcome! Join us in the Community Spotlight as we "spotlight" the Creative Team members.
Next up is Diane Russon!
Diane's Bio:
I’ve enjoyed taking photos most of my life and always seemed to be the family photographer. When I retired I decided to take up photography more seriously. I upgraded my gear and took some online courses to try and hone my skills. But I found I could never think of what to photograph. I just wasn’t creative enough to come up with ideas. I joined a 365 project and haven’t looked backed. I’ve learned so much and have been challenged more than I ever thought possible. I live in Ottawa, Canada with my partner Brian. I have no children of my own but I do have the cutest grandson ever!
How long have you been doing a 365 project?
I retired in 2017 and took up photography a little more seriously at that time. I had a hard time coming up with ideas of what to photograph. I found this 365 project and decided to give it a go in 2018. I loved it and loved meeting the members of this wonderful group. In 2020 the creative team was looking for a few new members so I put my name in to join the team. I was so intimidated. I had no idea what I was doing and what would be required of me. It was daunting at first. The original creative team of Lee Glasby, Garnett Johnson Hutchinson, Amy Jordan and Kris Elliot Baker were so welcoming. They helped this newbie learn and believe me, it was some work on their part! I think Lee must be sick of me not being able to size photographs properly even after 4 years!
What are your favorite prompts and your not so favorite?
My favourite prompts, by far, are the ones where I can include my grandson Charlie. I started taking a photo a day the year he was born. My goal has been to try and get at least one photo of him each month. I haven’t always been successful but I try. It has been fun documenting him through the years. I’ve watched him grow up in photos. He always is willing to help me with my daily photo but as he gets older, a little bribing is required! The other prompts I like are the ones that get me outside exploring the city. What’s even better is if I’m able to catch a great sunset as part of my photo of the day.
My least favourite prompts are the “in my hands” prompts. I bite my nails and my short, pudgy hands are starting to show signs of arthritis. I hate seeing them in photos. I used to hate the monthly selfie but through the years I’ve learned to embrace them. I want my family and friends to have photos of me. I don’t want to be left out when they look back at photos.
What is your go-to camera gear?
I recently purchased my first mirrorless camera. I bought the Canon R6 Mark II. It’s taking me awhile to get used to it but I do love how sharp the photos are with it. I have the 24-105mm lens attached to it most times and it is my walk around lens. I find myself using my phone more and more these days. It’s easier, I always have it with me and it’s much lighter to carry and use. When my motivation is low, using my phone helps me stay on track. A quick photo, one and done kind of thing helps me get through some of my tougher days.
What do you want everyone to know about a 365 project?
One thing I’d like other 365er’s to know is that anyone can do this project. You don’t have to be a professional photographer or have professional gear. I think some people feel intimidated when they only use their phone or have inexpensive gear. This group is for anyone who likes taking photos, regardless of experience. Everyone is welcome. I know a few of my friends love taking photos but I can’t seem to talk them into joining the group. I think that they worry their photos are not good enough. I wish they’d just join and see how welcoming this group is and how comfortable they’d feel. For those that have already joined, my advice is that this project is for you and only you. Do whatever works for you. If it means going off prompt or missing a day or week, that’s just fine. We want you here and will gladly welcome you back no matter how long you’ve been gone. Just come back and start again.
Where is your favorite place to photograph? and do you have a favorite subject?
I moved to Ottawa when I retired and doing a 365 project got me out exploring and learning about this city. I discovered some unique places and met new friends along the way. Ottawa is a beautiful city and one of my favourite things to do is to play tourist in my own town. I love to wander downtown and just soak in the charm of this city while snapping away. I also love a good sunset or sunrise. I’m not usually up in time for the sunrise so mostly, I capture sunsets. I’m still hunting down the best places for taking in a beautiful sunset but anywhere near water always seems to work for me.
You can find me on instagram at @dianerusson and Facebook Diane Perry Russon