Palm trees can be antagonistic bastards, the way they wave their fronds, suggesting you ditch everything and just hang out on the beach with them forever. Australian photographer Mason Rose heeded their siren call eight years ago, and he’s been living and shooting photos in the palm-tree-spotted islands of Hawaii ever since.
What inspired you to pick up a camera?
I started shooting video 23 years ago, but the long process of making films became really tiring; and the instant gratification of taking photos became an addiction. That was about 10 years ago.
What do you love about photography, compared to other artistic mediums?
I love that it sets me free to take whatever I like. It also becomes an identity, when you become obsessed with shooting something you love, which in my case is fashion and palm trees.
What are a couple of your favourite places to visit?
Kenya is amazing – it has so much depth to its local communities. Paris is beautiful. I also enjoy shooting in Amsterdam. All these places are special, because of the people, food, art, and culture.
Don’t edit your photos on the computer – keep it as natural as you can.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done to get a shot?
I hope I don’t ever have to do anything too crazy, where I have to risk my life. I actually like taking risks though, so for me, climbing mountains, flying in planes, or hang gliding for aerial shots, isn’t too crazy.
What are the basic building blocks to a great photo?
Keep it natural, shoot film, and use all different types of cameras. That’s what will help you capture the magic and stand out.
What’s the biggest compliment a person could give you regarding your photography?
Telling me that I’ve inspired them in some way.
What’s a common mistake people make when they’re shooting photos with their smart phones? And a quick tip to help them fix this?
Buy a real camera. Photography is an art, with a deep history, so you need to dig deep, just like a good DJ does. You’re not going to find classic tunes if you don’t dig into boxes of old records. Same with shooting. Stay hungry to learn more.
Who inspires you?
Henrik Purienne, and what he’s done for the art of film photography.
Best bit of life advice you’ve been given?
Don’t edit your photos on the computer – keep it as natural as you can.
To get a memorable photo you need to…
Buy a Nikon F3, some Portra 160 film, and get outside and feel what it’s like to shoot a real photo for the first time.
Which country are you yet to visit, but really want to?
Greece. The colors and coastline look simply perfect for photography.
