Portrait photographer Justin Veenema has carved out a niche by capturing the unique bond between people and their pets. His evocative portraits not only tell compelling stories but also connect with a global audience deeply interested in the intimate relationships between humans and animals. Previously, Veenema relied on the versatile Alpha 7 IV and the compact Alpha 7C II for his work. However, as his reputation has grown and the demand for his work has increased, he felt the need to elevate his craft. “This year I wanted to take my portraits to the next level so I’m stepping up to the Alpha 7R V, which is a portrait photographer’s dream camera,” he explains. Watch below as he shares how the camera helps him capture human connections and cute dogs.
The Freedom To Crop
One of the standout features of the Alpha 7R V is its impressive 61-megapixel sensor, which provides Veenema with unparalleled flexibility in framing his shots. “Thanks to the 61-megapixel sensor, I can take more steps back and photograph them playing naturally. Then, I can just crop it in post without losing any details,” he notes. This capability allows him to focus on capturing candid moments without worrying about losing image quality during post-processing. The ability to crop without sacrificing detail is particularly useful when photographing pets in action, ensuring that every nuance of the scene is preserved.
"Doggie Eye-Autofocus"
Another game-changing feature for Veenema is the AI-powered autofocus, including the innovative Animal Eye AF. “The Alpha 7R V has AI-powered autofocus and doggie eye autofocus, which means that I can capture them running around and not miss any shots,” he shares. This advanced technology enhances his ability to maintain focus on fast-moving subjects, ensuring that every playful leap and bound is captured sharply. For a photographer dedicated to capturing the dynamic interactions between pets and their owners, this feature is indispensable.
The A7R V & 28-70mm f/2 GM
Complementing the capabilities of the Alpha 7R V is the 28-70mm f/2 G Master lens, which Veenema finds particularly advantageous for his style of photography. “And now with the 28-70mm f/2 G Master lens, I can actually capture the whole interaction without having to switch lenses,” he remarks. This lens provides the flexibility to seamlessly shift from wide-angle to more intimate close-ups, allowing Veenema to document the full spectrum of interactions between people and their pets. The combination of the Alpha 7R V and this versatile lens equips him with the tools needed to tell compelling stories through his photography, capturing the magical moments that define the relationships between humans and their furry companions.
To learn more about the Alpha 7R V, click here.
To learn more about the 28-70mm f/2 G Master, click here.
See more of Justin Veenema’s work on Instagram @justin.veenema and at justinveenema.com.
