From the East Coast to the West Coast
Introducing : Charles Turnbull Photo : Self-portrait
Interview by : Desiree Thomas
Charles Turnbull , a professional photographer , has been capturing the life of the triangle for over 25 years . Snapping candid shots of weddings , baby showers , portfolios , main events , and local parties , Turnbull has done more than simply creating a name for himself locally , but also at headline events such as the North Carolina ’ s annual CIAA , Women ’ s Empowerment , and the BET Awards . In addition to working a full time job , Charles Turnbull still finds the time to execute and perfect the craft of photography . Simply Elevate had the chance to catch up with the busy photographer to find out more about him and his photography !
Q
: How did you first become interested in photography ?
A
: I first became interested in photography when I was a kid in middle school . I learned the technique from my father ; I made it a point to learn as much as I could from him in order to perfect my craft .
Q
: What is your favorite type of pictures to take ?
A
: Definitely , capturing the candid moments of life such as people , weddings , baby showers , etc .
Q
: In addition to local events , what other events have you participated in ?
A
: I have done photography at the BET Awards , Soul Train Awards , red carpet events , parties , women ’ s empowerment , and the CIAA .
Q
: How was the BET experience ?
A
: The BET experience was new this year ; it was a 3 day event that opened up on Friday with a lot of celebrities from gospel singers to actresses who participated . It was great that people had the opportunity to be on the red carpet .
Q
: How long have you been taking pictures at the BET
Awards ?
A
: I have been taking pictures at the awards since 2005 , each year it ’ s a new experience filled with great opportunities .
Q
: What is the most difficult challenge of photography ?
A
: The business side can be challenging . Now anyone who has a cell phone can be called a photographer . Many people lost the need of true photography .
Q
: Do you think the technical skill of photographers today has decreased ?
A
: It has saturated , everyone shoots on automatic . A true craftsman shoots on manual .
Q
: What advice do you have for aspiring photographers ?
A
: Stay true to the craft . Learn the technical part of photography , learn to shoot on automatic . Do your own edit work , process your own prints , do the whole process yourself .
Q
: What does simply elevate mean to you ?
A
: Simply Elevate means that everyone knows their potential , if you just put your mind to it and don ’ t give up . Anyone can elevate to a level that they never thought they could . If people say you can ’ t , you still believe you can and make it happen for yourself .
www . simplyelevate . com
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