In our continuing series of photographer interviews called SmugMug Corner, we meet a young, but talented, photographer in Danny Seidman from Seattle, Washington. Read our interview with a dozen fantastic photos below - great way to kick off the weekend!

Name: Danny Seidman
Website: www.danseidmanphoto.com

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Danny Seidman and I'm a 22-year-old chemistry student at the University of Washington's Seattle campus. For much of the year I find myself to be too busy for photography, as I go to school full-time and work a part-time job (for about 30 hours per week) to help pay for my tuition.

Traffic Jam

What is your background/training in photography?

I am entirely-self taught. Most of what I have learned has come from reading websites that offer tutorials and advice for the various aspects of photography. I also frequent several forums, as I have found the discussions and critiques to be incredibly helpful in the learning process.

Break in the Clouds

Mesmerised

How long has photography been a passion for you? When, where and how did it start?

I first expressed an interest in early high school, and spent much of that time learning the basics of exposure, composition and all the other important aspects of the art. It wasn't until college that I started to become more serious about photography with the purchase of my first dSLR, a Canon 20D.

Sandstone Beauty

What equipment is in your camera bag? What piece of equipment will be added to the collection next?

I am currently shooting with a Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the following lenses: Canon EF 17-40 f/4L, Canon EF 24-105 f/4L, Sigma 100-300 f/4, and a Canon EF 50mm f/ 1.8 II. When photographing landscapes I will often use a circular polarizer filter to cut down on glare and increase saturation in the scene. I always have my camera mounted on a tripod (Velbon - carbonfiber) and use a shutter release cable to maximize sharpness in my images. I feel like I have all the gear I'll need for the moment so instead of focusing on what to buy next, I'd rather spend my time thinking about how I can improve my technique.

Fiery Sky

Rolling Hills

What are your favorite places/subjects to photograph? Why?

Natural landscapes here in the Pacific Northwest are a favorite of mine. If I had to choose any one place to call a favorite it would be Mount Rainier National Park, but in all honesty, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm in the mountains or on the coast. As long as I am out enjoying the scenery and taking pictures, I'll be happy. Unfortunately, I'm occupied with school and work for much of the year, which prevents me from getting to most of my favorite places. As a result, I have learned to settle with taking pictures around my city as a way to satisfy my constant need to take pictures.

Mesa Arch

Who are your biggest photographic influences? Why? What about their work influences your work?

I have always admired the work of Galen Rowell, Marc Adamus, Floris Van Breugel, and many others. Their outstanding work has shown me what's possible and has driven me to constantly find new ways to refine my technique and improve.

Meadow Deer

Ruby Beach

How long have you been Smug with your photographs? What features do you most enjoy with your SmugMug account?

I have been with SmugMug for just under a year and absolutely love it. It has given me the luxury of not having to worry about maintaining my site and all the other hassles associated with building from scratch.

Tatoosh Sunset

If you had do sum up in 50 words or less the impact SmugMug has made on your photography/photography business, those 50 words would be...

SmugMug has allowed me to put together an attractive, professional-looking site that gives people an easy way to view my work.

The Watchman

If you had to give one piece of advice to those wanting to pursue photography, what would you tell them?

Do as much reading on the topic as possible and then go out and practice. Always be critical of your work and ask yourself how what can be done to improve it. Find a photographer whose work you admire and spend some time trying to emulate them. In my opinion this is one of the best way to learn about composition and what makes a photograph good. Once the basics have been mastered, it will be possible to develop your own style.

Eruption