Tell us something about yourself

I’m 25 years old, live in Copenhagen (Denmark) with my girlfriend (who is also a photographer) and I love to explore new things and places. That’s why I also have another photographic style which I use on my other Instagram account: @brandalisimo. This account is where I explore new places, find cool symmetry, beautiful buildings etc. The other account (@madsbrandis) is more dedicated to my studio work and jobs.

How and when did you get into photography?

I have only worked with photography for about a year. Before that I was playing soccer on a professional level until last year, where I had to stop after several years with problems in my knees. Since my exit from the world of soccer, I started to take the art of photography more serious instead of just using my Iphone (my girlfriend was a big motivation for me at that point, because she’s a professional photographer (Isabella Lenshardt) and I really admire her work). So everything has happen really quickly for me. Right now i’m in the Copenhagen photography school program and will be graduated in 2 year from now.

 

What does photography mean to you?

Photography is for me a place where you can define and show yourself by your work. It’s a place where there are no rules or boundaries and you can therefore explore your creativity and style as you want. I love that there aren’t any “wrongs” as long as you create something “beautiful” (which is also very subjective) 

 

Where do you get inspiration from?

I’m really inspired by other photographers. Other than that I love to find cool settings in movies or paintings. Music can also be a big inspiration to me. I’m convinced that I work better when I listen to music. 

 

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

My photographic style is hard to put in a box. But one thing which is common for me and my work is that I love to work with people. I love to meet new faces and get to know them before/while we have a photoshoot. I also really like how different photographers can get different angles/emotions etc. in a model’s face depending on their style and idea and sometimes you can’t recognize that it’s the same model these different photographers have used. This show how many looks the human face is capable of. Well, it’s just one big playground for me and I love every day of it!

 

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

Yes. I always do a moodboard and a production plan. Both for the model, myself and the company who has hired me. But sometimes I also just go with the flow if I suddenly find something interesting. But it’s a nice way to show your ideas for the crew, so they know what to expect and prepare themself .

 

Studio, on location or both?

I really like both. But if I have to choose I would go with location - as I mentioned before I love to find new places. That’s also why I have bought Broncolor Siros L’s kit. So I can travel and easy go outside with my lighting setup.

 

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I’m not finished at my photographic school in Copenhagen yet. So I must be a place between. I study and do paid jobs. So i’m a mix between that.

 

What has been your most memorable session and why?

That must be my first paid job. You will always remember that. It wasn’t a big campaign or anything like that. But the feeling of getting paid for your work for the first time was great. It’s like a recognition for me.

 

What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?

Movies, paintings, other photographers and music.

 

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

Canon all the way. But I guess it’s very subjective like photographic style in general. My favorite lens must be the Sigma 50mm 1.4 Art - It’s perfect for portraits!

 

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

Find your strengths/what you are most passionate about and then focus on that and keep evolving yourself and your style from that foundation.

 

What do you think of our new magazine?

I think it’s very cool. I love how you can get inspiration from different angles and photographic styles. Magazines like yours brings people with the same interest together and hey, there are so much talent out there!

 

My facebook is: www.facebook.com/madsbrandis

My Instagram is: @madsbrandis or @brandalisimo