Thanks for asking . . .

1. What camera is that?

Currently I use a Canon 5DsR 50MP full frame DSLR. Before Canon, it was a Nikon DSLR; before that, it was a Sinar 4”x5” view camera. Other cameras formerly used include Olympus 35mm and Bronica 6x4.5 medium format. And yep, I’ll get a mirrorless camera soon.

2. What lens is that?

For the Canon, I use a 15mm shift, 17mmT/S, 24mmT/S, 35mm shift, 24-105mm, and 70-200mm; and sometimes the 100mm macro is handy, as is the 2x converter.

3. Do you have a drone?

Yes, and I’m an FAA Part 107 Certified Remote Pilot. 

4. How much do you charge?

Commissioned project costs are based on the number of photos being created, the number of clients participating in the project, and the expenses associated with the project. Activity and event projects are often charged by the hour. And fine art print costs are based on the print size, medium, and number of prints.

5. Can I do whatever I want with the photos?

Yes and no. Photography is intellectual property with a copyright, so part of my costs are licensing fees for use of the work. I’m like an electrician who’s paid to go on site, and a software engineer who’s paid for use of software. So yes, a client can do anything with the work they want, as long as it’s covered in the licensing agreement.

6. You’re too expensive, can you do it for less?

Maybe. Much of life seems negotiable. Let me know the budget, and I’ll see what I can do.

7. Do you have a favorite photo or project?

What I love about photography is that each project is unique. I’ve been able to experience homes, hospitals, theaters, jails, universities, offices, abandoned spaces, and more. Again, I love this; so in that way, they’re all my favorites. 

8. Who are your favorite photographers or artists?

Bob Thall is an influential teacher, photographer, and friend. Other favorites include Jerry Uelsmann, Ansel Adams, Richard Misrach, Julius Shulman, Alfred Stieglitz, Richard Nickel, Arnold Newman, and David Plowden. Favorite painters include Caspar David Friedrich, Piet Mondrian, Thomas Cole, and Jackson Pollock. 

9. Who is your favorite band?

My all time favorite band is Rush (Neil Peart RIP). But Rush can’t scratch every itch, so other favorites include Neko Case, Thievery Corporation, Andrew York, Socalled, DJ Shadow, Johnny Cash, Pink Martini, J Davis Trio, Loretta Lynn, They Might Be Giants, and many more.

10. Is that your real name? 

Indeed, Darris Lee Harris is my given name. No, my parents aren’t hippies or into psychedelics. It’s a southern thing, combined with a lack of oversight.