Interview: Photographer Thomas Pagel (Denmark)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I’m Thomas Pagel / PAGE7photo from Denmark. I’m a creative person who works with photography, movies and digital productions - I love to create and make creative solutions, tell stories and make eye candy.

How and when did you get into photography?

In 2000 I started with 3d productions as an animator, lighting and compositing artist then i started with photography in 2005 taking the knowledge from my 3d world and started using it in photography also and found out quickly that I can use the same knowledge of image compositing, digital manipulation, colors and storytelling. About 4 years ago I started focusing more on people photography, models, influencers and bloggers.

What does photography mean to you?

I find great joy in photography since I love to create. Photos are in my personal opinion still one of the best media to share and tell stories. Being creative is a big part of my life so I love taking all kinds of pictures from baby pictures to high fashion productions.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

Lately I have been focusing mostly on lifestyle, fashion, cars and portrait photography.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

I often have a rough idea or make a mood board with inspiration pictures - But I also love to be creative on the spot, when you are on location with the model and outfit I try to be creative. I also give the models the possibility to bring ideas to the table.

Where do you get inspiration from? Everywhere, social media, photography sites and groups but also just being around people or something as simple as watching a movie.

Studio, on location or both?

I prefer location shooting since it opens up for more creativity, but it’s a lot easier to work with lighting in a studio - I have invested in some mobile led lights I can bring to any location.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I have considered myself a hobbyist for many years, but recently I have started to move away from that and more towards a paid professional.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

One of the first times I worked with a professional model was on the Maldives where we had a 3-4 hours photoshoot on a beautiful island where the surroundings were amazing no matter what direction you looked in. The model didn't speak english so we had some communication challenges but she was very professional with amazing posing skills so despite the challenges the results turned out beautiful.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Canon, I started with a Canon 500D, then 7D, and then 5D which I’m currently using with Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM - Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 II USM - Canon EF 100mm F2.8 L IS USM Macro. But I’m open for all kinds of equipment. It's more about how you use it. I also started using a Mavic Air drone.

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

It's not an easy business to earn money in at first, but if you love taking pictures and have a passion for it, and you work hard you can reach your goal - give yourself some different tasks for fast learning in order to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to fail - sometimes do some free shoots and tell openly that you are going to test a few things.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I love your magazines and how you help models and photographers around the world share their passion. The magazine is in my opinion a great platform to get inspiration. Thank you guys - keep up the good work!

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