Mike Clegg / Member Interview
Vienna, Austria
What inspired you to become a photographer?
I have travelled a lot since I was young and was taking lots of pictures on trips but with bad techniques. I decided to read some travel photography books (Lonely Planet) and also borrowed my Dad’s SLR camera to practice. Gradually this turned into a part time job and now I spend most of my free time travelling and taking pictures which I then share through lots of social media channels. I also make some income from my pictures too.
Tell us about your first photo that really validated your interest as a photographer.
When I first started taking photographs I was experimenting with long exposures. Seeing the results that could be achieved really got me excited and has kept me going ever since.
What do you enjoy photographing the most?
I very much enjoy night, city and long exposure type photographs. The majority of my pictures on social media are like this and do very well with engagement. Getting nice comments and feedback also helps fuel my passion.
What has been your proudest moment as a photographer?
I feel proud when persistence pays off, for example I often go to the same location again and again until I get the light that I want. For example the London panoramic on my feed I went to the same location about 5 times and often the lighting was awful, but the last time I went the lighting was perfect and gave me the image I was after which was actually just simple lighting, no clouds or anything.
How do you feel photography has impacted the way you see the world?
I think social media and photography particularly Instagram is the one of the biggest impacts. I think so many destinations are having a huge boost in exposure and I imagine it’s providing huge benefits to a country's tourism industry. I now feel that all the countries that have low tourism such as some developing countries should take advantage of the benefits of social media to promote their country as a place to visit.
To get your creative eye focused, where do you draw your inspiration from?
What is your best photography related tip?
Practice, practice, practice, make mistakes and learn from them. I’ve made tons of mistakes as I’ve grown as a photographer, sometimes you need to just laugh at yourself at how ridiculous they are.
What are some ‘must have’ items in your camera bag?
Tripod, strong ND Filters, wide angle lens and multi purpose zoom lens.
If you were stuck on a deserted island, what is the ONE photography book you would want to have with you?
Tripod, strong ND Filters, wide angle lens and multi purpose zoom lens.
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