Which usually comes in handy when shooting ads.
As an art director, I was involved in all kinds of shoots, big and small. Food, fashion, cars, banks, telco’s, you name it. And on all those shoots, I was learning from the best photographers in the business.
As a photographer, all that time in agencies has given me a lot of insight into the whole advertising process. Before, during and after the shoot.
I really do ‘get’ ideas, clients and brands, producers and budgets. And, of course, deadlines.
Plus, I can write, draw, retouch, kern type – do all that stuff art directors do.
It’s not that I didn’t love being a creative, it’s just that a few years back, while still an art director, a big opportunity came along to photograph my own campaign. I jumped at the chance. You can read all about it here. Long story short – I got back to my desk after three weeks away shooting, I knew I needed to change careers.
Since then I’ve photographed a lot of people, quite a few orangutans, one Hemsworth, and a whole lot of bottles and gadgets too.
I like variety. And challenges.
Every job has its unique set of demands. That’s something I really enjoy. How best to bring your idea to life, or solving something tricky and technical.
Over ten years on, I still love it.
Mobile: 0408741994
Email: michael@michaelmalherbe.com
