It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. If so, then St. Dom’s freshman, Bruce Soper, has a lot to say. Most of the time, however, he lets his pictures do the talking. I had a chance to interview Bruce about his photography and about his 3rd place award in the Balloon Festival picture contest. Here is what he said…

Q (Michael): When did you first start taking pictures and why did you start?

A (Bruce): I started about three years ago, just as a hobby, when my dad bought me my first video camera. It was something that I wanted to do. I liked video, but I’ve moved more to pictures. They’re more artistic.

Q: What do you like to photograph most? Do you have any favorite things or places?

A: I mostly like to take pictures of nature and scenery outside. For places, I usually go to the Balloon Festival, Bates College, or just about anywhere really.

Q: What medians do you use?

A: I mostly use digital and edit my pictures, but I’m going to learn how to develop in a dark room soon.

Q: Tell me about the Balloon Festival contest.

A: Well, I heard about it during the first year. I got a new camera for my birthday, and I thought it would be fun. My family encouraged me a lot, and I ended up winning 3rd place. The picture is of a balloon over the water.

Q: Have you been in any other contests?

A: No, not yet.

Q: What are some of your other interests?

A: I also like electronics and computers.

Q: Do you plan to study photography in the future?

A: Yeah, I do. I want to take lessons on development, but it’s more of a hobby. I don’t think I want to major in it in college, but I do want to publish more and do more photojournalism.

I’m sure this isn’t the last time we will be hearing from Bruce. He plans to continue taking pictures, and hopefully submit them to the Advocate!