FALL PHOTOGRAPHY: A CONVERSATION WITH THREE VERMONT ARTISTS

[webmaster's note: Chantelle Lamoureaux and Gabe Palmer are no longer members of the Bennington Arts Guild]

When asked for a memorable image of Vermont, most people think of its brilliant fall foliage.  The Bennington Arts Guild is fortunate to have three photographers who have captured Vermont’s fall majesty, and we asked them to share their impressions of fall as photographers.

For a slideshow of fall photographs, click here.

Why is fall one of your favorite seasons for photography?

Chantelle Lamoureaux:  Fall is my favorite season for photography, especially in Vermont.  It has vibrancy and variety - a candy store of photo opportunities.

Gabe Palmer: Fall is absolutely my favorite season, photography and otherwise.  Although I'm not primarily a "nature" photographer I still love the light, the color, the drama of it all.

Sarah Mayer: I love taking photos in the fall. The amazing colors and light can change scenery you have looked at for years.

How do you choose what to shoot? 

Gabe Palmer: Choosing what to shoot is not an issue. I usually go "trolling for pictures" and when I find something that interests me I'll either shoot it right then or, if the light is not right, figure out when to come back at the right time.  A GPS is a wonderful thing!

Sarah Mayer: I am a spur of the moment photographer.  I try to always have my camera just in case the perfect photo opportunity appears. I also go on hunting trips for photos.

Chantelle Lamoureaux:  I often take random road trips to explore - most often on back roads.  I have always had the determination to find that "diamond in the rough."  

Do you tend to choose one subject over another? Why?

Gabe Palmer:   I'm more interested in contained images, a juxtaposition of color, form and light. You can't predict, but you just know it when you see it.

Chantelle Lamoureaux:    I look at a subject and envision how many different variations it can be for me; how creative I can be with it.  I find the bigger the challenge, the more fun I have with the photo.

Do you have any special pointers for fall photography?

Gabe Palmer:  Light, light, light. Almost anything looks good in the right light. I love haze, fog, twilight, late afternoons and very early light. And remember to keep everything that doesn't belong in the picture OUT of the picture.

Chantelle Lamoureaux    - Look up! Especially on a clear sunny day.  The contrast of colorful trees against a crisp blue sky is a no-fail shot. 

Sarah Mayer: Always look for the right lighting.  Look at the world through the lens and see the different options before you commit to just one.  Always see things from a different point of view.

Why do you like being in the Bennington Arts Guild?

Sarah Mayer:  My favorite aspect of being part of the guild is the artists. I love listening to people explain and speak about their art.

Chantelle Lamoureaux:  I think it's a great place for fellow artists to meet, and it showcases the creative and talented side of Bennington. 

Gabe Palmer: My reason for being a member of the Guild is to participate in an active community of artists and interesting people.