Interview with Paul Hicks

My degrees in criminal justice and my experience as a criminal investigator have honed my ability to pay meticulous attention to detail, which has greatly enhanced my skills in both videography and still photography.”

I find solace in writing and often reflect on a poem I penned titled “Life”: Life They say you only live once. That is a lie. You only die once. So, live every day as if it is your last, Because it might be your last day on earth.

I enjoy capturing historical photos that connect us with the past and remain relevant today. It often makes the future seem clearer because it’s difficult to envision what’s ahead without understanding our history.

I draw a lot of inspiration from viewing the world through my camera lens. I take in a scene and then capture it with my camera. Whether it’s a statue, a play, or a road trip, photographing it allows me to see so much more than I initially noticed.

1. COLEMAN Vision HD G20HD

2. Minolta MN4K25NV 4K Ultra HD Camcorder

3. Minolta MN24Z 33 MP / 1080p HD Digital Camera with Interchangeable Lens Kit

4. Minolta MN35Z Camera

5. Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm, 75-300mm Lens.

I plan to travel more and capture the world through photographs and articles, sharing my experiences to help others see the world through a camera lens.

Having spent over 30 years as a first responder in the military, corrections, and security, I’ve faced numerous challenges. I’ve witnessed a wide spectrum of human behavior and situations. Through it all, I’ve learned that while not everyone is a criminal, some are. This experience has deeply influenced my approach to photography, helping me capture the intricate details of life with empathy and understanding.

My backpack is equipped with a variety of essential gear: Several Cameras: To capture the world from different angles. Laptop: For editing and sharing photos on the go. Selfie Stick: Perfect for those spontaneous shots. Extra Memory Cards: Ensuring I never run out of storage. Small Tripod: For stability in all kinds of settings. Larger Tripod: It stays in the truck for more extensive shoots. For safety, I also carry a few extra clips for self-protection. In today’s world, prioritizing safety is crucial.

My experience with Camerapixo Press has been outstanding. They offered tremendous help and support, along with many extras. They are a fantastic company to work with, consistently professional, and always a pleasure to deal with.

I have a deep fondness for several types of photography, each for its own unique reasons. Each one offers a different perspective and set of challenges, making the art form dynamic and endlessly engaging. 1. Landscape Photography: There’s something incredibly rewarding about capturing the beauty of nature in its raw form. 2. Portrait Photography: I find it profoundly human to capture emotions, expressions, and the essence of a person. Portraits tell stories and can convey so much with just a single look or gesture. 3. Street Photography: This style is all about the candid moments and daily life of people. It’s spontaneous and often unpredictable, which makes it exciting. Street photography truly captures the essence of a place and its people. 4. Astrophotography: Capturing the night sky, stars, and celestial events is both challenging and awe-inspiring. The results can be absolutely breathtaking.

Absolutely! Here’s a more personal take on the advice for beginner photographers: I’ve been there, starting out with a camera and a passion for capturing moments. Here are some tips that helped me, and I hope they’ll help you too:

1. Get to Know Your Camera: Spend time learning about your camera’s settings and features. Understanding how to adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO will give you more creative control over your photos.

2. Shoot Often: Practice is key. The more you photograph, the better you’ll become. Try different subjects, lighting, and compositions to see what you enjoy the most.

3. Master the Basics: Learn about composition, lighting, and exposure. These fundamentals are crucial for creating compelling images.

4. Analyze and Learn: Look at photos you admire and break down what makes them great. Try incorporating those elements into your own photography.

5. Get Feedback: Share your work with friends, family, or online communities. Constructive criticism can be incredibly valuable.

6. Invest in Lenses: Good lenses can significantly improve the quality of your photos. If you’re using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, consider investing in a few quality lenses.

7. Experiment with Editing: Learn to use editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop. Editing can enhance your photos and bring out their best qualities.

8. Stay Inspired: Follow photographers you admire, read photography blogs, and always stay curious. Inspiration can come from the most unexpected places.

9. Keep a Journal: Document your experiences, ideas, and lessons learned. Reflecting on your progress can be a great way to grow as a photographer. Just remember, photography is as much about passion and creativity as it is about technical skills. Enjoy every moment of your journey, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—each one is a learning opportunity.

Happy shooting!

Be sure to check out Paul’s online profile—he’s also a proud Camerapixo Certified Photojournalist.