Hamra Time: Behind the camera

A little over a week ago I returned from the O’Reilly Managers’ Conference for my second year. My primary role at conference is photographer but this year I also was involved in preliminary planning which was I really enjoyed and really forward to next year as well.

I don’t talk about photography much because I am by far not an expert and am still trying to get to a comfort level. But over this past year in my new role, I have learned so much about the art and love being behind the camera. I took photography classes in college but I was rusty to say the least, plus the advancement of cameras since my time out of school has been huge! Luckily, I have a wonderful mentor at O’Reilly, Mark Frazier, who has taken me under his photo wing and not only refreshed me on the basics but guided me in what type of equipment is right for my needs. It was like photography boot camp for my first conference last year as I started less than month before the event. He set a goal to get me off automatic mode and I have been on manual ever since. I also have an awesome partner in crime, Cheryl Maddox, who joined me this year to assist with photography. It is a hobby of hers but she is also still mastering her craft, so we strengthening our skills together.

Since last year, I ordered a new camera and lens and brought along our Canon Zoom lens (EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6) that I have wanted to experiment with. The camera is a Canon EOS 60D DSLR and the lens I got is a Canon EF-S 17-55 mm f/2.8. We also use our older camera that is a Canon 20D with a Canon EFS 17-85 mm f/4-5.6.

I was very pleased with the images I snapped of Kellie Pickler using the zoom lens, what an impressive piece of equipment. Also below are some images I shot of the talent, musicians and celebrities that were kind enough to join us as well as people pics of our fun conference crew who helps plan the event.

Already looking forward to next year!

BEHIND THE CAMERA