The Behind The Lens spotlight today falls on Jonathan (Jono) Truluck-Thyer, 32, who lives in Oxford Street, Brighton, and works at South Downs Nurseries in Hassocks. He was born in Eastbourne, brought up in Haywards Heath and moved to Brighton in 2013 when he met his now husband, Paul. They have a “small pooch with a huge personality”... Poppy is a Jackie-chi, a Jack Russell chihuahua cross.
When and why did you get into photography?
I have had an interest in it for years, but never really done anything about it. I was always making excuses to not take it up. It wasn’t until 2019 when I was showing a friend some of my phone photos, as I have always been happy snappy on my phone, and saying photography was something that I was interested in and wanted to turn into a more productive hobby. She told me I should do it and make that the day to start something new. After much deliberation and looking at cameras, I plucked up the courage and bought my first ever DSLR camera.
What do you love about taking pictures?
It lets me get creative, get focused and express myself, but most importantly it makes me stop, breathe and take in my surroundings. We live in a world where we don’t stop, we are always on the go. Photography has made me appreciate the world we live in, and being able to slow down and capture those unique moments. Photography has been great for my mental health and wellbeing.
Where is your favourite place to take pictures?
Being new to it, I don’t have a favourite place. I like just picking up my camera and either getting in the car, bus or bike and going out exploring. I enjoy being in the great outdoors and getting close to nature or walking the streets looking for something to capture my eye.
What equipment do you use?
The good thing about photography is there is a camera to suit all budgets. I have started off on the lower end and got a Canon EOS 4000D, it performs very well and is a good introduction to DSLR photography. It provides all you need with enough manual control to help develop your skills and still get good quality images. I also use different types of lenses and accessories like fisheye, macro, telephoto lenses and different filters. I have a tripod for long exposure photography.
What is your favourite picture?
I have taken several I am proud of or pleased at how they turned out. But most recently my favourite picture has to be of my dog. In my opinion it was having the camera at the right time and I love it, I called it “evening gaze”.
Why did you join the The Argus Camera Club and what do you like about it?
It’s a great safe place to share my pictures and to chat and get advice and ideas from other members. We all have to start somewhere and this is a great way to get my pictures out there. I like seeing other members’ pictures and the story behind them. There have been many amazing pictures and it inspires me to keep going.
What tips or advice do you have for others who want to take up photography?
Just go for it. There is no right or wrong when it comes to photography. Pick up a camera, any camera, even the one on your phone is good, and don’t be afraid. There may be a lot to learn and understand, but once you grasp the basics with every picture you take you improve.
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