Interview with Dominique Dubied

Hi Dominique! Tell us about yourself in two sentences - who are you?

I work in software development and am based in Switzerland. My love of photography lets me escape the technical stuff by getting out in nature. What a pleasure being in beautiful locations and simply appreciating these inspiring moments while taking pictures!

QWhat's the weirdest situation you've found yourself in while taking a photograph?

AI was taking long exposures along a small lake in Switzerland. It was a very windy day. My camera was on the tripod and I was trying my best to protect my gear from the wind. After some successful shots the wind seemed to decrease and I paid less attention to the weather. I decided to change my lens for another one in order to find another angle of view. My photo bag was just three meters behind me on a bench. I left my camera and while I was opening my bag, a sudden burst of wind made my tripod and camera fall down in the water! I swore and tried to get my camera out of the water as soon as possible, but the damage was done, it was wrecked!
Moreover I was going to Iceland two weeks later, so I had to quickly buy another camera, I had no choice. Before that accident I had the idea to renew my old gear someday, but I would never expect to do it in these circumstances…

QWhat do you shoot on? What's your favourite set up?

AI am currently using Canon EOS 5DMkII. My favourite lens for shooting landscapes is my new Canon 16-35mm f/4 L lens, it gives great image quality. In many locations where the foreground is really beautiful I use the very wide angle position of the zoom, it leads to very creative images. My dream lens today is the new Canon 12-24mm that opens even more doors to landscape lovers.
As I am also shooting long exposures, the Little and Big Stopper filters from Lee are part of my camera bag. These filters block much of the incoming light, you can then select a longer exposure time and so smooth out water or record nice cloud movements.

QWhat's your number one tip for an aspiring photographer?

AIn fact there are many tips for an aspiring photographer.
My main advice would be to always look for interesting light, colour, shapes and angles while wandering in nature. It is amazing how many people do not see the beauty of a specific place by simply passing by without noticing it.
My second tip is to look for simple and clean subjects: Less is More!