Cedrico Crocker self portrait

Warren County, KY boasts many beautiful tourist destinations and delicious restaurants to enjoy. Also known for an eclectic art scene, Bowling Green is home to many talented photographers who’ve not yet reached the level of stardom they’re one day destined for. I recently had the opportunity to interview Cedrico Crocker. He’s a creative photographer with a bright future and a clear mindset of where he wants to see his photography in the future. Recently, he was a winner in the debit card contest held by Franklin Bank and Trust. While I could continue to introduce him and discuss his amazing talent, I’ll let him take over.

Hello Cedrico! Can you introduce yourself so readers can better connect with you?

“My name is Cedrico Crocker. I’m a 39 year old husband and father of two. My company is named Changing Seasons Photography.”

How many years have you been photographing? Why did you become a photographer?

“I’ve been photographing seriously for about three years. I started out being a photographer to simply catalog my life. I realized early in life that by capturing images, I could share the way that I see the world with people and this would allow them insight to my point of view.”

Do you consider yourself a professional, amateur or hobbyist? Why?

“I am definitely an amateur. That being said, I would love to one day be able to sell images from my portfolio as my main means of income.”

What is your location and service area? If you don’t have a business, where do you tend to photograph the most?

“I reside in Warren County but I will travel to wherever I need to in search of interesting subjects to photograph. (a.k.a. Have Camera, Will Travel)”

What equipment and software do you use? Why?

“I currently use a Nikon D3100, most often with a 50mm 1.8G prime lens. I use Adobe Lightroom 3 for viewing and editing images. I like the ease of use along with the affordability of the product. It is also easy to integrate it into the rest of the Adobe software suite.”

If you could only use one lens/camera, what would you use and why?

“If I had one camera and lens I could use, it would be a Leica M9 camera and the M series 35mm F2 lens. It has been said that it takes more than pricey equipment to become a photographer and I agree. However, the quality of work that is capable with this camera and a talented photographer is amazing.”

What experience do you have and have you won any awards or contests with your work?

“I have about three years of experience practicing my craft on a daily basis. In the past, I have entered and sold framed images in various local gallery hangings, the most recent being the 2011 Duncan Hines Festival Art Exhibit. I also recently participated in a contest sponsored by Franklin Bank and Trust that selected one of my images to appear on their 2012 bank cards.”

What goals do you have for your photography/business in the future?

“The goal for my business will be to eventually let it grow into my full time job, allowing me to travel globally and share my view of the world with anyone willing to view it through my eyes.”

Who inspires/influences your work? Who are your favorite photographers?

“Ansel Adams book, The National Park Service Photographs, is a source of inspiration that I’ve had since I was a child. I also enjoy the works of Peter Lik, Trey Ratcliff and Edmondo Senatore.”

What advice/tips do you want to share with readers?

“Growing a business is not something that happens overnight. It also takes time, experimentation and an extreme amount of patience to grow in any field, as a photographer. A person must also be willing to take advice and critiquing and use it as a learning tool.”

Do you belong to any photography clubs, organizations or other sources of networking and learning? Who and why?

“I currently belong to the Southern Kentucky Photographers Club (http://www.sokyphotographers.ning.com) as well as Artworks Inc. I have made many friends and contacts through social networking. I also belong to a “click” of local photographers who provide insight and humor into our chosen field.”

Your website/social media/email so readers can contact you?

“I can be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/changingseasonsphotography as well as http://www.changingseasonsphotography.com. I also have an online presence on Flickr, 500px and Pinterest.”

Anything else you wish to share?

“Thank you for the time and opportunity to be allow me to share my story with you!”

Just from following his career over the last couple years, it has been apparent there is talent. He may not be the most known name or working solely on the income from his work, but with additional time and word of mouth his work will be appreciated for the uniqueness it is. Best of luck to Cederico Crocker and thank you for the interview!

If you would like to be interviewed for The Amplifier and think you have what it takes to stand out, be different and inspire others with your work then contact me for consideration.

About the author: Amber Flowers, Owner of Soul Gaze Photography, is a photographer, digital artist and writer most known for her infrared photography and the ‘fine art’ feel to her work. She is Founder of Southern Kentucky Photographer’s Club and a member of The League of Creative Infrared Photographers. Amber resides in Glasgow KY with her Husband, two children and several pets. Learn more, ask questions or purchase fine art photography: www.soulgazephotography.com.