I embarked on my photographic journey at the age of 11. I vividly recall my first camera, the Kodak EASYSHARE Z710. This is aside from countless film disposables, which looking back is a shame. The Kodaks 7.1-megapixel sensor and 10x optical zoom seemed extraordinary to me at the time. Surprisingly, some of the shots I took back then still hold up well today. I spent most of my time aspiring to be a wildlife photographer, armed with my cheap Walmart tripod and Z710, primarily exploring my backyard with occasional trips to the local zoo.
Eventually, I lost interest and misplaced my trusty old Kodak. It wasn't until 2014, on the brink of a trip to Vietnam, that the photography bug bit me again, urging me to better document my experiences. I picked up an Olympus OM-D E-M10 II with the reliable 14-42mm kit lens and a 40-150 telephoto lens. However, once you enter the world of interchangeable lens cameras, the journey doesn't end there. I added a fast pancake lens, the Panasonic 20mm f1.7, for walking around and street photography. And, of course, it didn’t stop there either; I needed a fast aperture for portraits, so I acquired the Olympus 45mm f1.8. With a camera bag bursting at the seams, my interest was reignited.
Upon returning home, I became the go-to freelance photographer – using the term with a double meaning, as I didn't make any money during these years. Nevertheless, I was thrilled to help out, whether it was taking college friends' LinkedIn photos or capturing numerous powerlifting meets, where I could put that 10fps burst mode to good use.
Fast forward to 2023, and it was finally time for an upgrade. Although I loved the small and compact lenses of my trusty Olympus micro four-thirds camera, I couldn't help but envy the full-frame cameras out there. While I considered going for a professional body within the Olympus MFT ecosystem, I knew it still wouldn't scratch that FF itch. So, I finally bit the bullet and bought a Sony A7IV, marking yet another massive upgrade. My lens acquisition frenzy began with the nifty fifty of course. I was blown away by the results from such a bargain lens. Following the trend, I added a portrait lens, the Rokinon 85mm F1.4. However, my endgame lens was yet to come – the Rokinon 35-150 f2-2.8, a chef's kiss in terms of quality. It was worth every penny of its hefty price tag.
With all this serious money invested in gear, it was time to start making money. That's when I founded Stephen Lawson Photography LLC. Establishing this business has not only provided a means to justify my photographic obsession but has also become a platform to share my passion with a broader audience. It's not just about making money; it's about capturing moments that resonate and telling stories through my lens.
I am grateful for the evolution from that first Kodak camera to the sophisticated Sony A7IV and the collection of lenses that accompany it. Each step, each upgrade, has played a part in shaping my craft and refining my artistic vision.
As I move forward, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. From documenting special moments for clients to exploring new realms of creativity. I look forward to what the future holds and am grateful for everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey.
