Once a week, we interview one of our Patrons or a photographer from our Slack community on NJspots.com!
We hope that you learn a new spot or new camera setup!
Who are you, and where in New Jersey are you from?
Greetings! My name Jack Kosowsky and I’m from Hamilton, NJ.
As a photographer, I feel I live in a great location! Within an hour’s drive, I have New York, Philly, the Jersey Shore, the Pine Barrens and lots of great little towns and parks to explore and photograph.
I first got into photography about 20 years ago when my son began to play ice hockey and I had visions of taking photos of him that would be worthy of Sports Illustrated! Needless to say, that didn’t quite work out as planned but got me started.
You can see more of my work on my website or on Instagram.
Want to check out NYC overlooks and the Pine Barrens? We have guides for that.
What are the three best spots for photography in New Jersey, and why?
It’s hard to narrow it down to just three locations but I’d have to say:
1. Asbury Park Boardwalk: I grew up on The Shore and it’s been amazing to see the revitalization of Asbury Park. I love the architecture of the Casino, the Carousel Building, the Convention Hall and the other buildings along the boardwalk.
Plus there are many art installations that have been added by local artists that make for great photo ops.
2. Manasquan Inlet: My kids grew up in Manasquan and it holds a special place in my heart. It’s one of the few spots in New Jersey where you can shoot a sunrise and a sunset from pretty much the same spot.
The jetty makes for a great subject to include in your sunrise shots. At the end of the day, walk a couple hundred yards down the sea wall and you can capture an awesome sunset picture over the Manasquan River.
3. Princeton University: I love photographing architecture and the campus buildings. Plus the town has many unique buildings!
I’ve shot here hundreds of times, yet each time I visit, I seem to find something new to capture.
What's your camera setup?
I’m a Canon shooter and am presently using a Canon 5D Mark IV. My go-to lenses are my Canon 16-35 f/2.8, Tokina 28-80 f/2.8 and Canon 70-200 f/2.8.
I also have a Canon f/2.8 100mm macro that I primarily use for shooting flowers in my in-home studio
Finally, I have a Tamron 28-300 f/3.5-6.3 This is my walking around lens when I want to travel light. I describe this lens at being good at everything and not great at anything.
My favorite accessories are ND filters, my Yongnuo Speedlight/radio trigger and my platypod.
Looking to expand your gear? Check out our ultimate gear guide.
What's your dream piece of gear? Think big!
That would be a Canon 600mm f/4 lens. It’s only $13,000, but you said think big!
What's one bucket list photo of New Jersey you haven't gotten yet?
To capture a beautiful photo of a bald eagle.
Check out our Birdy Jerz guide to see where you might capture one!
One tip for aspiring photographers?
Photography is part science and part art. The camera is the science. Your imagination and how you choose to use the camera is the art.
What's your favorite part of being a photographer?
“Photographer Feature” is an ongoing segment featuring our Patrons and Slack community members. Contact editor Abbey Dufoe for more information.
