Matty Rogers

How long have you been a photographer?

I picked up a camera 7 years ago, and have been a professional film maker/photographer/graphic designer for the past 2 years.

What made you pick up a camera?

I was heavily in action sports and had broken bones more often than not, so I started filming races when I couldn’t compete. People enjoyed my stuff and I loved doing it.

Whats your favourite style of photography?

Definitely couldn’t pick just one. I like urban and landscape stuff because of the adventures that come along with it. Every photo has memories attached which is why I don’t need it to be commercial.

What’s the best thing about being a photographer?

Not having to go to work in the normal sense is pretty good. Travel is also a bonus. I guess it’s all just one big adventure.

What’s the funniest photography experience you ever have?

Plenty of the stuff in action sports can be pretty hilarious. Also have had some run ins with police that are pretty funny.

Do you do anything else besides photography?

Film making, graphic design, and do a lot of work in marketing and branding. Everything meshes well together.

What was your first camera and did you use it for professional shoots?

I started with a Canon 60D. I didn’t earn any money from it but I learnt all the basics that allowed me to move on.

People sometimes think that if you get the top expensive gear you will produce the best images. What’s your take on that?

I don’t really buy into “It’s not about the gear”.  Of course it’s about skill and experience, but the gear will either better or worsen what someone of that skill level can create. I love technology and using it to it’s full potential. Gear is important so get a job.

We see you do a lot of urbanscape photography. What message or feel are you tryna express across your work?

In Shadows is about our everyday world being more than just mundane. You don’t have to travel anywhere to see something crazy. Sometime you can jump a fence or open a door and experience things that almost nobody else does!

Any advice for novice photographers out there?

Enjoy it and explore your creativity. I love seeing people killing it on Instagram every day. If you want to take it professionally you have to be smart about what you do, and be prepared to work twice as hard as a normal job!