2. What do you think of photography these days?
Although I am a big fan of film (analog) - cameras, I believe that digital-camera is a great invention because it has made photography so much more accessible to people all around the world. Because of its low cost/per photo, digital has also enabled many people to discover their talents and predisposition for photography. However, quantity never really meant quality....

3. What did you want to be when you were younger?
I wanted to be a pilot because my father was once an air-force officer.

4. Tell us about the time when you first got started in photography.
It was in 1983 when I bought my first 35 mm camera, film scanner and negative-developing can with my pocket money. I was only 13 years old then and I used to shoot in black & white (Ilford was my favorite film manufacturer then).




5. In your opinion, what does it take to become successful in this industry?
It is the way of thinking and the essential personal creativity. Which means, photographers (or illustrators) do not have to think like an artists-photographer when taking photos. What is essential is to know what and where the photos are meant for and create something that meets the need.


6. What was your biggest challenge coming into this industry?
Well, I don't really know for sure but I believe the biggest challenge is to learn. This is a life-long challenge so one should never stop learning as you move along, regardless of the subject.



7. What are the best perks as a Photographer?
The best perk as a photographer is when you know you have just witnessed a unique event and that you have captured it with your camera. Although the moment has passed, you know it has been recorded and saved from silence. Besides that, all the perks that I might have have already been 'covered' by my music engagement, unless being admired by pretty models is considered one!


8. How do you plan for your shooting sessions?
If models are involved, I'll usually brief them on the nature of the shoot and tell them what is required from them. Then I'll start searching for the right garments and props to be used. Next, I'll start making rough sketches to visualize the positions and shots I'm planning to take. If it is an outdoor scene, I'll survey the area prior shooting to determine the exact points where my shoot will take place. Last but not least, listen (or look on the net) for weather forecast and make sure you carry enough water supply for outdoor shoots.


9. How would you describe your work to first time viewers?
All my stock photos are taken with a purpose. I'm not sure how successful I am with these but I definitely did the best I could. By the way, stock photos are only part of my entire portfolio.


10. Do you shoot to what your heart tells you or do you go through a complex check list in your mind when you produce your work? Describe the feeling/check list.
I have to say that although I know stock photos need careful planning, I nevertheless will pool together photos that the market has demand for and the kind of photos my heart tells me to do. If only I have the equipment and knowledge to replicate the work of others, I'm sure it could lead me to more money. Besides that, I'll always make photos that are more personal. I can't say that I'm successful, but I surely am giving it my best.


11. From your experience, what subjects gives you the greatest satisfaction? Any examples?
I have to say that I enjoy making photos, and I do not have any favorite subjects. I feel equally good on a session with beautiful models as to working on macros of flowers, photographing around in the city, or even in the wild mountain areas.


12. From your experience, what subjects are the hardest to work with? Any examples?
Working with models can have its difficulties. If the model lack self-confidence, then I'll need to use a bit of my energy to reassure them. I can't say that it is hard work. Children and animals are also hard to photograph at times. It needs a lot of patience and time to capture just one good shot, but luckily, that is exactly what I have to offer!


13. What is your philosophy when it comes to your work?
Always listen to yourself. In fact, I have this motto: Listen to what everybody has to say, and always do what your internal voice tells you to.


14. Describe who/what inspires you, tell us why?
Well, I'm afraid I do not have a sensible answer for this question. Waking up alive every morning is an inspiration in itself.


15. What do you do when those creative juices just seems to evade you. How do you "get creative"?
Besides photographing, I am also a professional musician. Sometimes, I'll just practice my instruments, and other times, I'll go for a boat ride in the river or mountain biking. Being near to open-water can really help boost the creativity in our brain.


16. Tell us about a time when inspiration just hits you, and you felt the insatiable urge to create. What did you do with that energy?
Depending on the situation and type of inspiration, if I �see� a photo in my head and I don't have my camera with me, I'll just write the idea down on a piece of paper and implement it when I have the chance.


17. What have you discovered about yourself through photography?
Nothing I did not know actually. I know I'm good in mathematics and I know I'm good looking. Maybe I didn't know I am that good looking until I saw my own self-portraits!


18. Whose work do you admire the most? Why?
It's a big injustice to favor only one or a few photographers. I personally admire every single photo. It does not matter who created it and when. When I was younger, I used to admire (and still do) Magnum Photo's photographers. Then it's down to people like Mr. Branibor Debeljkovic (who died a few years ago and words just cant express how great he is) and Mr.Pavle Marjanovic for being such a great friend and photographer. For my 36th birthday, in between presents, I received a copy of National Geographic portraits. In it, every single photo deserves admiration.


19. Do you have any advice for those who are just getting in to stock photography?
Don't cry when reviewers reject your photos. Don't bother about what's written on forums. Just take a good look at your photos, study the cause of rejections and take note not to repeat similar mistakes in the future. Try to think more like a designer and less of a photographer. Good luck and yes, use a Nikon!