Creative Instagram photographer using his camera to beautify his city
Compiled by @stwesley
Mike is talented photographer from across the pond (London), @m.visuals as he is called on instagram refuses to boxed into one style of shooting. Though relatively new to the game this talented photographer mastered his camera and has quickly developed a style of his own and we are proud to feature him on this weeks Behind The View Finder.
Whats your style of photography, what type of images do you identify with most.
I guess my style would be anything creative, from the angle to lighting to props, just something a bit different.
Which photographers influenced you.
One of the biggest early influences was my cousin @nightsnlights in Aus. Over here it would be @cooperexplores, we started shooting together so he was a big influence as well.
What technology (camera/software) do you use most?
I use a Sony a7ii with a 35mm Zeiss prime and 14mm Samyang prime. To edit I use Lightroom but will be starting to use Premier Pro in the next month when I start videography.
What motivates you to continue taking pictures
The enjoyment and buzz I get when taking photos is what motivates me! Getting “that shot” and constantly challenging myself to reach new levels is a big factor as well.
Which is your favorite lens? Why?
I’ve only been shooting since May, and I only had the 35mm Zeiss up until late October haha so I’d say the 35mm but I love the 14mm and probably use it more right now just because it’s newer and I haven’t shot with it as much.
What camera gear do you wish you had? Why?
To be honest I’m really happy with my A7ii, I’d obviously like the A7rii or the A7iii when it drops soon just because both are beasts!!
How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?
Just shoot, I go out as much as I can and learn every time what works and what doesn’t work.
Among your works, which one is your favorite? Why?
My favourite… hmm that’s a tough one, I really don’t know, I shoot so many different styles. Probably one of my creative steel wool shots? Although I love my crystal ball shots as well and can’t wait for summer to get some more of those!! Or rooftopping, those are mad the rush is amazing and the shots are just epic. So in reply, I can’t pick one.
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
Probably how the camera works haha. I remember the first few months just battling with the settings or asking @cooperexplores constantly what settings I should have my camera at. I guess that is part of the learning process but I look back and wish I had the knowledge I have now.
What makes the good picture stand out from the average?
I would say the framing along with the originality of the shot, and for mine its often the creativity and edit.
Where are you from, where do you live.
I am originally from a town called Lewes, near Brighton on the south coast of England but now I live close to London.
Follow Mike on Instagram @m.visuals
