Interview: Photographer Michael Oxkjær (Denmark)

Can you tell us a little about you?

My name is Michael Oxkjær and I was born in 1965. I live just outside of Copenhagen with my wife and my son. I am a freelance web designer with focus on web design and online marketing. As a self-employed I mostly work by myself, where my passion for photography makes me meet a lot of exciting and creative people.

How and when did you get into photography?

I started taking photographs in 2014 meaning I have not been doing it for such a long time yet. Compared to many others, I am still a relatively new photographer. It all started after I fall ill with stress and I needed to find hobby which made me relax. I participated in a model photography workshop and right away I knew this was the right hobby for me.

What does photography mean to you?

Photography means a lot to me and I spend many hours taking photography every week. I get to meet many exciting, creative and nice people who share the same passion as me, which is very motivating. Often, I work with new models and I find it challenging and exciting to find their best expressions and take some cool pictures that they love.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I do not take photographs in a specific style as it is often an interaction with the model. But portraits are always fun as you can play with expressions. I am very lucky to know some creative models meaning if they have an idea, I am always ready to try it. This is the way I develop my skills, otherwise I would often be doing the same. The most important thing for me is that it is fun to do.

Where do you get inspiration from?

I find inspiration from many different places, but primarily Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, advertisements and magazines like Modellenland.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

It does not happen that much as I mostly work with new models. The model and I often make decisions while we are shooting. However, we often discuss outfits etc. before the shoot. It also happens that the model has a really good idea and then it is of course planned.

Studio, on location or both?

It depends a lot on the weather and the type of pictures we have decided to shoot. However, I prefer outside as it gives a little extra to the photographs when there is nature and other soundings in the photography, where in studio it can become a bit monotonous.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Primarily, I am a hobbyist but sometimes I do commercial tasks as well.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

This is a difficult question because there have been so many. However, the funniest shoot was recently where we used flour and whipped cream. It was very crazy and fun. This is why I love working with creative models. Unfortunately, I cannot show pictures from that shoot yet as we are planning to get them published.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

I have always used Canon, but recently I got a Sony A7 III and now I am using both. My favorite lenses are Sigma 50mm 1.4 ART and Canon 24-70 2.8 mk.II that I use on both Canon and Sony with the MC11 adapter.

What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?

Go for the it, believe in your own abilities and treat your models with respect. Listen to feedback and learn from it. Push yourself and face challenges - it helps develop you.

What do you think of our new magazine?

It is really good. A great opportunity for someone like me to show the rest of the world some of my work and not at least as inspiration for future pictures.

https://www.instagram.com/oxkjaer/

https://www.photobymox.dk

http://www.facebook.com/oxkjaer/