Q&A
- How did you start with photo/video?
I've been interested in photography since I was a kid, but it's only in the last three years that I've started to take it more seriously. It all started inconspicuously in pandemic times when I came across a POV street film. - How would you describe your style?
My photography is a look at the city through the lens of light, shadow and detail. I love to capture the pulse of city life, especially at night, when the streets take on a completely different character. Neon accents, reflections in puddles and the play of light are elements that give my frames a unique atmosphere - full of contrasts and mystery. I value harmony in composition, but I am not afraid to break the rules to bring out the emotions hidden in everyday places. The city in my photographs becomes not only a background, but also a character that tells stories - sometimes dynamic and intense, sometimes quiet and reflective. I try to show architecture and space from a completely different perspective, drawing out what is unobvious and memorable. My photographs are a way for me to express what is difficult to describe in words - a combination of admiration for urban structure, fascination with light and a deep need to explore what is around us. Each frame is an invitation to stop for a moment, to see the beauty in simplicity and to discover the magic in the places we pass by every day. - What inspires you?
At the very beginning, I was inspired by YouTube and the videos of street photographers. It was there that I saw what the world of street photography was like and how you can capture a moment in a way that moves others. Now I draw inspiration not only from photography, but also from film and music - both of which have a huge influence on my view of the world and the way I compose frames. What fascinates me most about photography is that it never ends. It's a continuous process - I can always improve my technique, develop my skills and discover something new. There's no ceiling, just constant development and an ever-higher bar. There are also a lot of artists I have a lot of respect for - their work inspires me and their level is something I aspire to. I try to chase them, although I know it's a long process. It motivates me to get better every day and get closer to the ideal I have in my mind. - What is your dream shoot or project?
I have three projects in my head that I would like to pursue: 1. street photography in New York, Chicago and Toronto. 2. landscape photography in Norway and Iceland 3. a Porsche 911 session at the airport. - What is your best advice to others that want to develop as photographers?
Take lots of photos and learn from them - The more you photograph, the better you understand equipment, light and composition. Analyse your work, considering what works and what is worth improving. Pay attention to composition. Learn principles such as the tri-partition rule, leading lines or symmetry. Consciously decide what goes in the frame, because it's the composition that builds the story of the photo. Look for yourself in it - Discover what interests you and what you want to show. It is your view of the world that makes your photos unique. Don't be afraid to experiment - Try new things, break the rules and look for unusual subjects. You learn the most by stepping outside the box. Be inspired by the best - Analyse the work of photographers who impress you, but find your own style. Observe the frames, the light and the emotions in their photos. And finally: take more photos! Practice is the key to success.
What is in your bag?
- What is the most important in your bag?
Sony A7IV, Tamron 35-150 f/2.0-2.8, Tamron 17-28 f/2.8, Tamron 70-180 f/2.8, fujifilm x100VI, Nanlite PavoTube II 6c - What bag do you use?
PGYtech Onemo lite 22l
Discover more about Mateusz Wąs
Instagram: mustache_lens
Facebook: mustache_lens
YouTube: @mustache_lens
Web: mustachelens.pl