Interview with photographer Mark Lobo
Mark Lobo’s quickly making a name for himself, for his outstanding creative flair as a Melbourne commercial photographer. From commercial shoots, portraits, food, and things, his ability to find humour and liven up the scene, definitely sets him apart!
I love that each of his creations are so interesting – and there’s so much to look at!
Mark’s self-portrait is definitely my favourite! It shows his hilarious look at life and taking on any challenges. He’s getting pelted with water bombs, twisties, and sauce for the camera!! There’s even a tennis ball and rubber ducky in there!
This photo was created as part of his application process for this year’s Phoot Camp in Marfa, Texas. You can see a time-lapse of this photo in the making below…
Check out more of Mark’s awesome photos on his website.
How have you got to where you are today?
My interest in photography probably started when I was about 5 when my older sister said her dream in life was to become a photographer. Soon came Christmas and she received a red plastic 35mm camera as a present. With that camera, still unable to grab the concept, I apparently took my first photograph by pointing it at the ground and snapping someone’s shoe.
Since then, whether it is through art, music or design, I’ve always been involved in creating something. After high school, I made an odd decision to pursue studies in IT, and soon enough landed a job writing software and letting my creativity fade away. By my 2nd year, I could feel the weight of the corporate world crushing my soul and I realised it definitely wasn’t for me. I started looking for an escape and a change. That change came through turning my love of photography into a sustainable business.
So I quit my job and I haven’t looked back!
In a few words, describe yourself…
Always evolving, curious, and interested in everything (mostly people).
What are you spending your time on at the moment?
I just got back from a great trip overseas to Phoot Camp so have pretty much just been catching up with work, to be honest! I’m also working on a project called Von Vintage, which is a film photography-based project and will be exhibiting later in the year.
Do you have a ritual for getting into the creative mindset? Or a creative process?
I wouldn’t say I have a specific ritual, but I am always at my most creative when I’m well-rested and have a clear head. Being calm and focused when shooting is really important for me.
What or who inspires you?
Photographers that I met at Phoot Camp have been big inspirations to me. Each of their creative domains is so different, and I’ve learnt so much from all of them.
What are you most proud of?
Years ago, I wouldn’t have ever imagined that could have turned what was once just a passion, into something I can do every day! I think I’m most proud of the journey I chose to take.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Policeman, baseball player, and comedian. Today, I think I’d be terrible at all those things.
