Interview With a Photographer: Ian Harper

Where’s home?

Hey, I’m Ian and home for me is just south of London, in the UK.

What is the favourite place you’ve travelled to?

I’ve been very fortunate to be able to travel to a lot of places.  I actually always love coming home!  But my favourite place is probably Isla Grande, a small island off the coast of Brazil.

How did you get started as a photographer?

I got started in photography whilst travelling around South America with my brother for 4 months.  I was just capturing my travels on my iPhone, but took the photography more seriously as the travels progressed.  It was on this trip where I met Henry too, who propelled my enthusiasm into photography to a new level!

What camera equipment / software / tech do you use?  Any must haves?

I shoot on a Canon 5D Mark III, mostly with a 16-35mm f/2,8.  I then edit on Lightroom.  A cheeky must have is probably VSCO on the iPhone to really transform some iPhone shots you get when there isn’t the time to get the camera out.

What photographers have influenced you, how you think and shoot?

I’ve been massively influenced by Henry Nathan above all other travel photographers across Instagram.  Working and travelling with him has been a great opportunity to really work on my photography and editing.  Specifically with how to compose and edit a shot for Instagram.

Any top tips for Instagram?

Use the filter X-Pro II and whack the saturation all the way up and hope for the best ;)

What are you trying to communicate through your photographs?

I am trying to communicate adventure and the beauty of the world! lol.

What motivates you to continue doing what you’re doing?

I love travelling and photographing the beauty of the world.  I am motivated to continue doing what I love for as long as I love doing it!

Are you a bathroom singer?

Yes, and a big time car singer.

Do you have any advice for young aspiring photographers?

Practice!  Just take loads of photos and don’t be put off if it takes 1,000 bad photos to get 1 good photo.  And do it if you enjoy it.

What are your goals for the future, regarding your work?

Continue to travel, learn and improve.  And master the art of using that sweet sweet  X-Pro II filter.

Both of these images are available for print and canvas purchases here. 

If you have any questions for Ian, leave a comment below!