1. Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?

My name's Andy Whale I've got into photography during a one year foundation art course at Bournemouth. Photography was the only medium that I felt gave me what I wanted for my creative expression.

2. Where did you study photography?

I studied at Bournemouth Poole College of art and design in Dorset United Kingdom

3. Do you remember your first shot? What was it?

I don't remember the very first photograph but I do remember the first photograph that actually meant something to me emotionally.
I took a picture of a tree against a barbed wire fence silhouetted with a background of a deep orange sunset .
It was the first time that I could see how an image could create emotion from the viewer, and the objects within the photograph have real meaning.

4. What equipment do you use?

I use Canon DSLR Equipment I have a 5D Mark 4 and 24mm to 70mm and 70 mm to 200 mm L series lenses. I have a fish eye and a 100mm Macro plus various flashes etc.

5. What do you hope to achieve?

I always hope to achieve happiness in my life and creating beautiful images helps me in that cause.

6. What inspires your unique storytelling?

Art and Literature

7. What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?

Muted, Painterly, Intriguing

8. Congratulations! As the winner of the European Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?

Receiving the Best in Category award from the European Photography Awards is an incredible milestone in my career. It motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of my creativity and deliver compelling visual storytelling that leaves a lasting impact on audiences.

9. Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 European Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

The recognition is a testament to amazing collaboration between me the (photographer) commissioning client ,singer songwriter Nick Capaldi and an amazing computer retoucher Tobias Winkler and our dedication, and artistic vision in capturing beautiful imagery that resonates with viewers.
The winning photograph, which was produced by me for Nicks new album cover titled ‘You and All The Seasons,’ showcases a profoundly beautiful and symbolic moment. The image portrays Nick Capaldi proposing to his beloved wife in front of a majestic tree that has been digitally enhanced to depict the four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Nick and I are based in Dorchester Dorset and we wanted to photograph in Dorchester if we could.
We visited a few different locations to try and find the perfect tree to use as the main location for the photography.
We eventually found it at Athlehampton House which has many amazing trees and topiary hedges. This Yew tree had been shaped perfectly for our purposes ????
We chose a time and day where the sun would be low enough to create a beautiful warm golden light .
In this composition, I worked with the computer retoucher to work out the kind of techniques to illustrate the tree’s transformation throughout the year. Blossoming flowers represent the vivacity of spring, vibrant green leaves symbolize the lushness of summer, while the rich hues of autumn leaves evoke a sense of warmth and change. Finally, delicate snowflakes blanket the tree, capturing the serene beauty of winter.
I feel the photograph conveys a profound narrative, capturing the essence of love, growth, and the cyclical nature of life itself.

10. How has winning an award developed your career?

I’m hoping that it will introduce new clients for me to work with in the commercial world all over Europe

11. Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.

Brian Griffin, Irving Penn, Richard Avedon

12. What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?

Work hard, be conscientious and watch what other people are doing while you are helping them.

13. What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?

I find it hard to advise new photographers today as the process I went through 40 years ago has changed dramatically
Since digital photography has taken over and with digital images being so easily accessible it has changed the art form dramatically.
I think to make it as a successful photographer nowadays you have to be working in different mediums at the same time.
All I can say as that if you're going to pursue your passion try to stick to one particular genre in the Photographic field and try to become the best you possibly can within that.

14. What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

I think my key to success is hard work determination and not giving up when times are hard.

15. How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?

I am always looking at new ideas and absorbing as much new information as possible.

Winning Entry

Professional
2023

Photographer

Andy Whale

Category

Commercial Photography - Album Cover