Photographer Profile: Scott Martin

Welcome Scott Martin as part of our photographer series!

Where are you based out of?
I am based out of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

What first attracted you to photography?
Friends of mine who had a band were going to Ireland for 2 weeks to tour around and play music. I decided to tag along with them. The day before we left, I went out and bought the first camera I had owned since I was much younger. It was also my first digital camera. I decided I was going to document our travels. It was that trip that planted the photography seed inside me. Needless to say, there were a lot of bad pictures taken on that trip.

When was the first time you felt like a professional photographer?
It involved my same group of friends from the Ireland trip. They were playing a large venue as part of a local music competition. I brought my camera to take some photos of their show. I happened to run into one of the organizers, who I knew, and he let me get in front of the barricade. It was the first time I had ever been able to shoot unrestricted from right in front of the stage.

Favorite style or subject to shoot?
My favourite subjects are concerts and my 2 young boys.

Favorite piece of equipment?
Tough question. Toss up between the 14-24 and 70-200 lenses. When shooting shows, I love to get up close and go wide, or get a nice tight shot. I’ve also recently tried the fisheye and gotten some nice results.

What is your dream photography gig?
My dream gig would be to head on the road with a touring band and document the tour both on and off stage.

Any advice for others who are interested in photography?
Shoot what you love. It’s all about getting your time in. The more you shoot, the better you get.

Best piece of advice you got starting out?
Shoot lots and edit like a madman. Only show them your best.

What services do you offer?
I currently shoot concerts and band portraits. I am looking to try out a few other areas this year through personal projects.

How can someone contact you?
By email: scott@scottmartinvisuals.com, or through my websites – http://www.scottmartinvisuals.com and http://www.spotlightottawa.com