In 2005 I moved to New York to study at the International Center of Photography (ICP). I worked as an assistant to a photo journalist and then as an assistant photo editor at GEO Magazine in their New York office. In 2011, I returned to Switzerland and started working at the Sonntagsblick Magazine – and now I work with all of the online and print publications at Blick Group. We focus on domestic as well as international news; in addition, we cover entertainment, lifestyle, and sports.
Photography is at the heart of what we do. It has the ability to capture the reader’s attention and directs them to the story; especially in the case of visual storytelling, photography has the ability to tell the story itself. Great photography has a powerful message and conveys emotion. Technically, and in addition to content that speaks for itself – great photography has beautiful lighting, a strong composition, and an element of surprise. Creative risks often are what sets great photography apart from just good, or average photography. I am often “wow-ed” by photographers who infuse some facet of their personality into the photography – especially those who have a clever sense of humor and communicate it in a witty and indirect way.
It captures a moment in time where the athlete(s) is in sync and yet at the same time in contrast with the natural surroundings that are present.
Share what is in your head, produce it - don’t be afraid to take creative risks. Old fashioned face-to-face networking is a great way to meet people, share ideas, see what is trending and talk about who you are and what your work means. Get out there and see what people are doing – give and receive constructive criticism. Be inspired, and in doing so provide inspiration for someone else. In addition, I also think social networking in the digital world provides great ways to promote and share your work – but get educated about sharing your work online and be knowledgeable about copyright laws and the pros and cons that come with networking online. Don’t rely on one form of communication with your audience – but find the balance that works right for you.
“Creative risks often are what sets great photography apart from just good, or average photography.” - Christof Kalt