Interview with photographer Damien Bredberg
When discussing his creative role, Damien explains of a transition occurring in his field where he’s working directly with clients more to conceptualize and compose images, as opposed to just shooting images. Advances in technology means that a more surreal result can be achieved faster while still working within a client’s budget.
Damien’s creative role leads him to plan exuberant personal projects. His 2010 self commissioned Movember shoot (featured below) won Gold at the BAD Awards for Photography Craft and the International Loupe Awards. The Wine & Dine shoot (below) also scored at last year’s BAD Awards, where he took home a Silver for Photography Craft.
I highly recommend a visit to Damien’s website for much, much more photography goodness. Or pop over to his Facebook page to follow the latest updates.
Movember Charity Shoot 2010.
How have you got to where you are today?
I guess the how and why are very much related in my case. It was not exactly a passion or parenting influence, but the kickstart from a competition win through KFC – to follow and live with V8 racing team to Bathurst for the entire event. It was here I tested my new camera for the first time, but not only, on sold many of the photographs to the host team and associated magazines.
In a few words, describe yourself…
Crazy, impatient, energetic and perfectionist.
What are you spending your time on at the moment?
In the midst of our busiest year yet, I am working on a self-promotional image to help raise awareness and funds for Prostate cancer. The image itself will capture a dynamic gangster car chase set in the streets of London in the 1940’s.
It’s since become a tradition with a large following, and has set a benchmark for my folio and ongoing personal projects. More recently, last years Movember image won Gold at the BAD Awards and the International Loupe Awards.
Do you have a ritual for getting into the creative mindset? Or a creative process?
Funnily enough I do, but its rather depressing…
In a quiet place with no distraction other than a bottle of red wine, emotive music (Enya, Dido or Norah Jones) and sketch pad. I sit in dim light plotting and badly sketching stick figures.
What or who inspires you?
There are many international photographers whom inspire me, like Erwin Olaf, Dan Escobar, Tom Nagy, Dave Hill and more locally Chris Budgeon.
What are you most proud of?
Without a doubt – maintaining a successful business. In this market of rapidly diminishing demand and “fix it up later” products, it’s nice to still be recognised and appreciated for producing unique images with strong ideas and stories.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Mmmmmmm…..was never one of those kids. However, I have always wanted lots of money… lots and lots. Doh!
