What was it like shooting for Vanity Fair? What other publications have you shot for?
Shooting for Vanity Fair was a great experience. I’ve also shot for Industry, Beverly Hills Design and Life, Eliza, Gloss, Blue and Instinct
If you could shoot any supermodel, who would it be?
If I had a time machine, Linda Evangalista, although I would still love to shoot her now. I’m quite fond of Lara Stone as well.
What kind of camera do you use?
EOS-1Ds Mark III Digital SLR Camera
Do you find making a living as a photographer in this economy very challenging? Name some specific challenges you have faced.
The economy has definitely changed things in fashion. Fashion designers and magazines do not have the money they used to. Before the economy had it’s downturn, a large number of people were pouring a lot of money into fashion. With TV shows like "Project Runway" and "America’s Next Top Model", there was this huge interest in pursuing fashion. Many people were starting their own fashion lines and magazines. A lot of that has gone away. It has made me to start reaching into different markets like entertainment and music. What I’ve found is, it pays a lot more! So this economy in some ways has actually helped me expand my career as a photographer.
What techniques/tips/advice would you share with a young photographer trying to break into this line of work?
As a photographer, it can be a long road to fame and fortune. It’s a lot of hard work and diligence. Shoot as much as possible. Find your own voice and pursue what interests you visually. Don’t try to do something that’s hip and trendy because you think someone else will like it. If you really love what you’re doing and are excited about the images you’re creating, other people will be too.
What inspires you as a photographer?
Trying to capture a sense of passion in life. Take a gorgeous model, in amazing garment, in beautiful light, in a dramatic setting and capture it. Try to create a little world where everything is fabulous, at least for a moment.
For more on Mark Oberlin photography, please visit www.markoberlin.com.
