Photographer Name: Paul Ferradas
Nationality: Latin born in South America
Hometown: Santa Clara, CA
DOB: May 14, 1971
Sign: Taurus
Website Links: www.ferradasphotography.com www.myspace.com/ferradasphotography

Pixacom: How long have you been doing photography?
Paul Ferradas: I started photography about 2 years ago.

Pixacom: Did you take any photography classes?
Paul Ferradas: I remember taking one of those inexpensive classes on lighting at a local camera shop. I didn’t really learn anything from it.

Pixacom: How did you get started photographing beautiful women?
Paul Ferradas: It started when I saw an ad for a photographer/model networking event in my area. I had no experience shooting people. The only living creature was probably a squirrel, which got old pretty quick. The event was at a club and there were girls everywhere wanting to get their pictures taken.

Pixacom: How did you feel with your first model shoot?
Paul Ferradas: I had no clue what I was doing but I was working with some inexperienced models back then so I didn’t feel so bad. When I look back at those pictures today it makes me cringe. No you can’t see any of them.

Pixacom: Would you say you are pretty comfortable now?
Paul Ferradas: I seem to think so. I’ve done it enough that I’m ready for just about anything.

Pixacom: Where would you say you get your inspiration from?
Paul Ferradas: My inspiration comes from within. At the end of the day when I get that killer image from the shoot it gives me a great sense of satisfaction and makes we want to do it all over again.

Pixacom: What would the average model say about your style of photography?
Paul Ferradas: Most girls respond very well to my style. My images have sex appeal but it’s all done in a very tasteful and classy way.

Pixacom: What type of camera equipment are you shooting with today?
Paul Ferradas: I shoot exclusively Canon. I’m currently using the EOS 5D camera body, it’s a great camera.

Pixacom: Is there any equipment you'd love to have?
Paul Ferradas: Sure, more lights. Experimenting with lights and their placement is always fun but the more lights you setup, the more lights you need to keep adjusting. I rather shoot if I have the choice. Is an assistant considered equipment? I’d like one of those from time to time.

Pixacom: What are your opinions on digital vs. film?
Paul Ferradas: I think both mediums have their advantages. There’s a certain aura to film that you just don’t get with digital but the advantages of digital far outweigh those of film. You have far more control of your image with digital than you did with film and for those that beg to differ, learn Photoshop and I’ll ask you again.

Pixacom: Are there any websites you would suggest for photographers looking to break into the
business?
Paul Ferradas: You have a few out there that cater to photographers and models. Model Mayhem and One Model Place comes to mind. It’s a great concept but it’s getting a little out off hand. It seems like everyone’s a model and photographer nowadays.

Pixacom: What's the worst experience you've had working in model photography?
Paul Ferradas: I don’t think I’ve been doing this long enough to come up with a good story. Ask me again in 5 years and I might have something worth writing about.

Pixacom: What's the best part about working in model photography?
Paul Ferradas: It’s an adrenaline rush for me, setting the stage, getting everything dialed in and working with a model that delivers. The aftermath is always great too. It’s great feeling when the models use your work to further their careers in the industry.

Pixacom: What's next for your portfolio?
Paul Ferradas: Maybe some more conceptual shooting, a large production with a great team of people all working together for that ultimate shot. I would love to be a part of that.

Pixacom: Have you been requested to travel for your photography?
Paul Ferradas: Yes, mostly within California. I was offered to shoot a calendar in a tropical location just recently but the timing didn’t work out for me, maybe next year.

Pixacom: If you had the opportunity to shoot a celebrity actress who would that be and why?
Paul Ferradas: I would have to say Evangeline Lilly. There’s something about her that I just can’t put into words. I think that she’s very down to earth and doesn’t mind getting down and dirty, in the sand that is. I’d shoot her on a tropical island, a sandy beach with a weathered look.

Pixacom: What female music artist would you like to work with?
Paul Ferradas: I want to shoot a gothic scene with Amy Lee from Evanescence. She’s a beautiful person and I love her music, it’s very emotional.

Pixacom: Have you had any of your photography work published commercially?
Paul Ferradas: Yes. I took a freelance job with a local magazine in my area which I still shoot for from time to time. I’ve also been published in music magazines and those mens magazines, you all know which ones right guys?

Pixacom: Where do you see your photography taking you 5 years from now?
Paul Ferradas: Looking back just 2 years ago when I first started I can honestly say that I’ve taken a giant leap in both photography and the connections I’ve made with friends and colleagues in the industry. 5 years from now, at this pace, the sky is the limit.

Pixacom: Anything you'd like to say to all the models reading this right now?
Paul Ferradas: If you’re just starting out, get references and shoot with the best possible photographers you can. Cameras are getting so cheap that there are a lot of guys with cameras that consider this another form of match.com. Don’t waste your time. Even if you have to pay to shoot with the best it will be money well spent and an investment on your future.

Pixacom: Last call. Anyone you wanna give a shot out to?
Paul Ferradas: My family and friends. Without the love, none of this is worth it.

photos and interview by Paul Ferradas