Ope

Ope

How did you get started in photography?

I was always into art/graphic design before I got started. I decided to study photography in college and it's from there I knew I wanted to pursue it further.

How did it arise that you got into art and graphic design before photography? What sparked it?

Art class was something I had generally loved since primary school. It was while I was in secondary school, I started seeing various pieces of work on 'DeviantArt' and then took a stronger interest in art & graphic design all together. It all developed from there really.

What role has your iPhone and Instagram played in it?

The iPhone and Instagram have played a major part in my photography

development. The quality of the camera is quite impressive for a mobile phone and it'll only get better with every new arrival. The majority of the time I'll find myself taking a lot more pictures on the iPhone than with my professional camera. Although the iPhone does have it's limitations, I feel as a photographer it's good to push yourself with whatever camera you have. As for Instagram, it has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation for me. I've connected with so many professional photographers/enthusiasts from all over the world. And as a big community we tend to learn off each other.

How has London influenced your perspective?

Having lived in London all my life, I've explored quite a lot and have seen so much from gritty buildings/alleyways to beautiful cityscapes/structures. Theres always something new popping up in London -- whether it'd be a new building, a viewpoint or a redevelopment of an area. It'll always cause me to think about or change the way I see things (for the good of course).

Where are your favorite places to go in London?

There's a range of places I'd put down as my favorite, far too many to mention but I tend to find myself exploring the east parts of London quite a lot. There's so much to see there, you'll always get some good shots.

What are you inspired by?

I'm inspired by people who are constantly focused on improving themselves along with others too, whether that'd be a photographer or someone in a totally different craft. I can also find inspiration in general day-to-day things and situations.

What are some of those things or situations that inspire you?

Being able to make someones day with a few words or even just a smile (vice versa). And also meeting new people who have incredible talents and/or stories (you tend to come across quiet a few in London).

What are some of your favorite shots?

There's so many! When it comes to favorite shots of mine they're always gonna change due to the fact theres always gonna be something new and exciting to shoot.

How does symmetry impact your shots?

Depending on location, I can achieve good results by exploring

interesting ways to show symmetry. Generally speaking, a symmetrical shot is (usually) compositionally pleasing and tends to have a big impact overall. Most of the time my first thought is if I'd be able to line up a shot for it to be symmetrical but I know that won't always be the case.