an interview with johann theron (photographer)
Sunday, January 11, 2009 8:56 PM                
 
on his photography
 
     
 

Photo © Johann Theron

We don't see him very often at shows because he prefers to do private photo shoots, but when Johann Theron does venture out to the occasional special event, his coverage is excellent and the quality of his photos outstanding.
Meet Johann Theron........

SHOWDOGS: Hi Johan. You have been taking dog photographs for a long time. When and how did you start?
Johann: My interest in photography started during my student days in 1985, when I was quite involved in showing and working with Arabian horses. From horses, my worked branched into dogs and other animals. The first time I really photographed dogs was in 1989, when I took spools and spools on my own dogs and to my surprise, one of these pictures was used on the cover of a Swiss dog magazine.

 

 
 

SHOWDOGS: You don't only photograph dogs, do you? What are your favourite animals to capture photographically?
Johann: No, I also do lots of cats and horses and through my work on Animaltalk magazine, basically anything else, from frogs and butterflies to lions and elephants.

SHOWDOGS: Not many people know that you have dogs. Can you tell us about your dogs? What made you choose this breed?
Johann: I share my home with Basset Hounds. They are so cool! Very laid back and relaxed, but also very loveable.

SHOWDOGS: To what would you attribute your photography success over the years?
Johann: A love for animals and lots of patience.

SHOWDOGS: Where did you learn your photography techniques?
Johann: Through trial and error, trying out new techniques and styles, reading books and magazine articles, and keeping in touch with the work of leading animal photographers from around the world.

SHOWDOGS: Do you use special techniques to get the dog looking just right, or is it just a good dose of patience?
Johann: Patience is very important, but also a feel for animals. I do also use sounds and tricks to get the attention of a subject.

SHOWDOGS: On average, how many pictures do you need to take to capture the perfect image during a photo shoot?
Johann: That varies a lot, depending on the dog, the setting and the light conditions, but on average I take about 30 to 70 shots during a shoot.

SHOWDOGS: What kind of camera and peripherals do you use?
Johann: I use a Nikon D100 digital camera and a Nikon F90x SLR, with Nikon ED lenses and Nikon speed lights. My favourite films are Fuji Provia slide film and Fujicolour Superia 200.

SHOWDOGS: Thank you for your participation, Johann, and most of all, thank you for the stunning photos you allow to be published on SHOWDOGS.

 

  
                     
         
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