Do you remember when you realized photography was more than a point and shoot camera?:
The day I picked up my fathers Canon AE1 and looked through the viewfinder. It was a new world to me.
What was your first camera? And what is your current?:
First camera was Canon AE1 and I currently shoot with my trusty Canon 5D MKII
What has photography done to your life?:
Photography has allowed me to explore the far reaches of the earth, all 7 continents and over 70 countries from Antarctica to Zambia. In turn this has enriched my life through the people I have met, the places I visit and the cultures I experience. My life is more fulfilled, exciting and adventurous because of photography.
As a career photography has let you see much of the world. Where are the places you wish to return or are most memorable?:
The most memorable places for me are Antarctica, Myanmar, New Zealand and the South Western USA, particularly Yosemite, Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. I would return to these places in a heartbeat.
Being a photographer, one would generally assume you also participate in the activities you shoot. What are some?:
Kayaking, Rock climbing, cycling, surfing, paddleboarding, snowboarding, trekking, climbing mountains and attending festivals like Thaipusam, Running with the Bulls and Songkran.….Should I go on?? Most adventures I shoot I participate in as well. It gives you the appreciation for each activity.
Who or what do you look to find inspiration in?:
I am constantly inspired by my surroundings. Being on the road full time allows you to draw inspiration for wherever you lay your hat. I meet new people everyday and am inspired by their stories. I visit different locations everyday and am inspired by their beauty. Inspiration is everywhere you and all you have to do is open your eyes. Travel is great for that. I don’t think I have ever lacked for inspiration in any destination I have ever been in.
Life behind a lens means being witness to the best of times and the worst. Please let us know an experience from each.:
There are so many great moments from kayaking with Minke whales in Antarctica to experiencing the generosity of a poor Tuk Tuk driver in Sri Lanka helping to raise funds to shoe school children in a rural community. Each day that I get to pursue my passion is the best of times for me. On the flip side I have witnessed the crushing poverty of India, the barbaric animal practices of rural China and the oppression of a culture in Myanmar. Travel photography can transform you through the best of times and the worst of times.
What would you say to a young shooter with dreams of traveling the world taking photos?:
It can be done. But photography has to be your passion. It is getting harder and harder to make a living in photography so find something that makes you stand out and never stop pursuing what you are meant to do. If you want to succeed you will.
Tell us one over looked lesson you have learned in the photo business:
It’s more than just being a great photographer. You have to be a great marketer, have a great business sense and know how to network. I have seen some very successful photographers whose work is not that amazing but they know how to market their work and they know the business of photography. On the flip side I know some amazing photographers who bang their head against the wall because they can’t get noticed. The difference…business sense.
Favorite Quotes:
“There is no passion to be found playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”
― Nelson Mandela
“A great photograph is a full expression of what one feels about what is being photographed in the deepest sense and is thereby a true expression of what one feels about life in its entirety.”
― Ansel Adams
