Saturday, I had the opportunity to speak with one of The New York Times’s most important freelance photographers, Chad Batka. Sandra Stevenson, photo editor at The Times, recommended that I speak with him because of his vast experience with shooting concerts in low light settings. As soon as we got on the phone he mentioned things that I knew but were not using to the best of my ability. For example, I was under a misconception that if I slowed my shutter speed down no matter what it would be blurry. But with a monopod and focus I was able to get some great shots in low light. I also was always using my digital camera to review the pictures but Batka recommended that after I take a few pictures I should check them thoroughly to make sure they all came out great instead of settling for mediocre shots.

I also was curious about how should I help develop a creative eye and he recommend that I just look at as many photos as I can and use them as a reference and think about how I can make every shot different. Even when in tight places with low light don’t be scared to move; you can even ask to see if they will turn the house lights up a little. Overall, Batka was big help and I definitely got some great advice from a great photographer.