Interview: Photographer Dan Mortensen (Denmark)

Can you tell us a little about you?

My name is Dan, I’m 48 years old and living in Aalborg, Denmark. At the moment in inbetween jobs, but have been driving a cab for the past 15 years.

How and when did you get into photography?

I got my first Nikon 25 years ago, and shot for a couple of years, but then life happened and I did not have the time to enjoy my hobby as much as I wanted to, so I actually quit it for several years. But 5 years ago I bought a new Nikon and I’ve been hooked since. I have been shooting more seriously for the last 3 years.

What does photography mean to you?

Photography to me, is meeting new people, engaging with strangers, trying to capture a moment in time where my model shows his/her personality. It is the best feeling when you get that one click that makes it all worth wild.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I’m still struggeling to find my own style J But I love portraits, nudeart, beauty and pinup as genres. At the moment i’m hooked on black and white. Shadows are sooo cool.

Where do you get inspiration from?

Inspiration comes from everywhere. When I see a cool location, Your magazine, 500px and other image sharing communities. Also when I see an interesting person on the street I get that perfect picture in my head. The I go to the person and try to convince her/him to do a shoot with me. Surprisingly many says yes.

Do you think in advance what you want in the picture ?

Usually I have an idea. When I get an idea, I scout for a location, try and find a suitable model for the shoot, make a moodboard. But a lot of times it changes in post production. I do a lot of experimentation after I’ve finished my planned image.

Studio, on location or both?

Both, but likes studio the most. Full control of my lights and I can use hours nerding with it.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I’m a happy hobbyist who makes a buck now and then.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Nikon and my 85mm 1.8 LOVE that lens.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

Uh. That’s impossible to tell. I’ve met so many nice people during my shoots. But I will always remember my first paid gig. I couldnt believe that someone would pay me good money to do what I liked the most. That was a good day.

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

Do something you love. If you have to shoot products to get paid and you hate it, you won’t last long.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I LIKE IT. It’s very interesting to read about other photographers and models, and there are some amazing talents that shows of their work. I like the way that talent gets a chance to be promoted. And you can learn a lot by getting to know how others work.

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