There are few things that can evoke emotion like a perfectly timed photograph. Capturing a specific moment in time — whether a crying bride, the joy of a new baby, or a family coming together in celebration — is truly an art form.
Kicking off the launch of the Swappa marketplace’s new camera store, our Photographer Spotlight series allows us to feature some our favorite photographers from around the net. Although having the right gear always helps, 99% of photography comes down to raw talent and skill — something our latest featured photographer has in spades.
Husband and wife duo Ether & Smith (Emma and Allen McGowan) are a pair of wedding and portrait photographers located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Their artistic style can be described as nothing short of a dream captured in a photo with soft pastels and subjects drenched in glowing light. E&M’s photos are absolutely stunning and are about as close as you can get to a fairy tale.
We sat down with Emma to see what kind of gear she uses to shoot and even talk a bit what she’s doing when she’s not traveling to exotic locales for destination weddings.
What was your first camera?
The Nikon D70 was my first DSLR, but my first ever camera was a rinky dink 2MP point and shoot.
How did you get into photography?
It was in high school. I was inspired by war photojournalists, especially after I found out my grandfather was one during WWII in Indonesia. Afterward I was inspired by surreal fashion photography.
What’s your favorite thing to shoot and why?
Right now, landscapes. I don’t have to direct or pose them. It’s really nice just waiting and letting things happen, it’s relaxing. Much different than weddings.
When it comes to work, portraits of cool couples and pretty details, and beautiful locations/venues with magical light. ?
What’s in your camera bag?
Cameras
- Nikon D850
- Nikon D810
- Nikon D800
- Nikon D750
Lenses
- 58mm f/1.4
- 85mm f/1.4
- 135mm f/1.8
- 20mm f/1.8
- 35mm f/1.4 (x2)
Other
- Nikon flashes (X2)
- Lots of memory cards
If you could bring only being one piece of equipment on a shoot (excluding camera/lens), what would it be?
A huge scrim if it’s an editorial shoot.
Which phone you currently use?
Laptop you’re using?
Mostly use a new iMac as my workhorse, but that laptop was almost maxed out and future proofed. Still working (knock on wood).
Console you’re playing on?
PlayStation 4 and PC.
Current game and favorite current gen title?
Currently playing Shadow of the Tomb Raider and favorite current gen game is Witcher 3 ?. Geralt is bae, and team Yen forever.
Future camera gear you have your eye on?
Pentax 67ii with the 105 or Fuji xt3.
Favorite photo of yours?
My favorite light, when the sun goes below the horizon with my subject facing it. The perfect balance of light on the subject and background. Plus the juxtaposition of the dress and rooftop with a subtle sense of movement. The photo feels like it’s breathing. It was also one of the last photos from a long six hour shoot.
What’s the hardest part about shooting wedding photography?
Not being burnt out and losing the passion. Saying no. The physical and mental exhaustion every wedding takes on your body and mind (it’s unreal). Wearing 20+ hats running a business. Managing personal life and business life because you’re working 24/7 and putting more hours than a regular 9-5 job (often times putting in 80+ hours in a week). And everything listed below.
What can of advice do you have for anyone looking to get into the same field?
Grow slow, grow intentionally. Second, shoot and gain experience. Be humble and learn EVERY chance you get. Be legit from the start with proper paperwork, business bank accounts, hiring an accountant/book-keeper, lawyer approved contracts, CRM program, etc., don’t forget to shoot for yourself, remember that social media only shows the highlight reels of other people. Refine your work over and over again, outsource your weakness to focus on your strengths, work smart, keep it simple, stay inspired, and don’t overthink it. Oh, and take care of yourself.
Favorite photographer
Tim Walker. Always.
Where can people find you online?
www.etherandsmith.com and emma@etherandsmith.com
*****
Ether & Smith is the second featured photographer in our Spotlight series, bringing you our favorite up and coming photographers and highlighting them here on the blog.
To get started buying and selling your old camera gear in the Swappa marketplace, simply hit the link below.
