Matt Dusig

I studied photography at California State University, Northridge.

During college, I had an assignment that led a friend and I to photograph truck stops outside of Los Angeles. I captured some compelling images of truckers, their vehicles, and the stations where they paused on their journeys.

Canon R5, Mavic 3, film cameras.

My main goal is to build awareness around the images I create. I'm passionate about showcasing the untamed beauty of wild American Mustangs, the grandeur of aerial landscapes, and the intricate details of cityscapes through my lens. By bringing these images to a wider audience, I aim to attract clients and collaborators who share my passion for these subjects.

Ultimately, I'm looking to form connections with galleries, interior designers, and art collectors who are as enthusiastic about my work as I am, helping to elevate my presence in the fine art photography world.

One of the most inspiring moments for me was at the 2023 London Art Biennale, where I showcased my series on wild Mustangs. The attention and feedback I received there were incredibly motivating.

Hearing the positive reactions and seeing how deeply people connected with my portrayal of these majestic animals reaffirmed my commitment to my art. It was a vivid reminder of why I pursue photography: to evoke emotion and share perspectives that might otherwise go unnoticed.

My storytelling is deeply inspired by the natural world and the environments I immerse myself in. Whether it's the raw power and freedom of wild American Mustangs or the vast, serene landscapes seen from above, I strive to capture the essence and emotion of these scenes.

My background in graphic design also plays a significant role, as it taught me the importance of composition, color, and the interplay of light and shadow.

Moreover, my experience as a tech entrepreneur has influenced my approach, encouraging me to continually innovate and adopt new perspectives and technologies, like drone photography, to tell more compelling stories. This blend of nature's inspiration and technical experimentation drives my unique visual narratives.

Evocative, expansive, and intimate. These three words encapsulate my approach to photography. I aim to evoke strong emotions and capture expansive landscapes that convey the grandeur of nature and urban environments.

At the same time, I focus on the intimate details that offer a deeper, more personal connection to the subjects I portray.

Winning at the London Photography Awards is an immense honour for me personally. It validates the passion, effort, and creativity I have invested in my photography. This recognition not only reaffirms my approach and technique but also enhances my visibility and credibility in the art world.

It's incredibly motivating and encourages me to continue exploring, experimenting, and pushing the boundaries of fine art photography. More than just an accolade, it's a significant milestone that opens up new opportunities for collaborations and exhibitions, helping me to expand the reach and impact of my work.

Absolutely, I entered a series of images that I feel deeply connected to, spanning both cityscapes and natural landscapes. These photographs include vivid scenes from Honolulu at dawn, capturing the city's tranquil awakening by the sea, and dramatic night views of Los Angeles, highlighting the vibrant energy of Sunset Boulevard.

Additionally, I showcased powerful images like the lively celebration of New Year's on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok and the serene sunrise over Phang Nga Bay.

Each image was chosen to represent not only the technical skill involved in capturing such moments but also the emotional and narrative depth they convey. The vibrant, pulsing life of cities and the majestic, untouched beauty of nature are themes that resonate with my artistic vision.

Winning awards in both platinum and gold categories was a tremendous honour and validated my effort to capture and share these extraordinary perspectives.

Entering these particular works into the London Photography Awards was a strategic decision aimed at highlighting the diversity of my portfolio and the global scope of my photography. It was important for me to showcase my ability to capture the essence of various environments, whether it's the bustling energy of an urban setting or the tranquil majesty of a natural landscape.

Winning awards has been incredibly impactful for my career. It has significantly boosted my visibility within the fine art photography community and beyond. Such recognition serves as a powerful endorsement of my work, helping to establish my credibility and attract the attention of galleries, collectors, and potential clients.

Furthermore, it has opened doors to new opportunities such as exhibitions, collaborations with other artists, and increased interest from publications. The award has also helped in promoting my coffee table book and limited edition prints, as it adds a layer of prestige that appeals to buyers and collectors.

Overall, this accolade has been instrumental in propelling my career forward, allowing me to reach a wider audience and solidify my reputation in the competitive field of fine art photography.

Peter Lik, Drew Doggett, and Roger Fishman.

The best piece of advice I received when I was starting out came from a mentor who told me, "Stay true to your vision, and be relentless in your pursuit." This advice has been a guiding principle throughout my career.

It encouraged me to maintain my authenticity in my artistic expression and not to sway with every trend or criticism. My mentor emphasised the importance of perseverance, especially in the arts, where rejection and criticism are frequent.

This mindset has helped me to remain focused and passionate, pushing through challenges and continuously striving to refine my craft. It taught me that true success in photography.

For anyone looking to enter the field of photography today, my advice would be to immerse yourself deeply in what moves you the most. Photography is not just about capturing what you see; it's about conveying what you feel. Start by exploring different genres and techniques to find your unique voice and style.

Embrace both the creative and technical sides of photography. Learn the fundamentals, like composition, lighting, and color theory, but also get comfortable with the technology, from cameras to editing software.

Networking is crucial, so connect with other photographers, join communities, and participate in exhibitions and contests. These connections can provide support, inspiration, and opportunities for growth.

Lastly, be patient with your journey. Developing a distinct style and gaining recognition takes time. Keep experimenting, keep learning, and stay persistent. Your dedication will shape your path and define your success in photography.

My key to success has been a combination of passion, persistence, and adaptability. Passion fuels my creativity and drives me to pursue photography not just as a job, but as a calling. Persistence is critical in overcoming the inevitable challenges and setbacks. The art world can be tough, and the ability to keep going, to learn from failures, and to continually strive for better is invaluable.

Adaptability has also been crucial, especially with the rapid changes in technology and audience tastes. Staying flexible and open to new methods, perspectives, and opportunities has allowed me to evolve and stay relevant in my field.

For anyone in any creative endeavor, my advice would be to always stay curious. Keep learning, keep exploring, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

From a young age, I've had a deep curiosity about computers and technology, always eager to understand how things work and how technology can enhance our lives and art. This natural curiosity has been essential in staying receptive to new information and innovations.

To keep this mindset, I make it a point to continuously educate myself. I follow the latest developments in photography and tech through online courses, workshops, and by reading industry publications.

Moreover, experimenting with new techniques and technologies in my projects helps me to directly experience their impact and potential. Whether it's the latest drone, camera equipment, or editing software, hands-on exploration keeps my practice dynamic and innovative.

For those aspiring to a career in photography or any creative field, remember that your unique vision is your greatest asset. Stay true to it, nurture it, and don't be afraid to share it with the world. Challenges and setbacks are part of the journey but keep pushing forward. The beauty of photography is that it allows us to capture moments in time, tell stories that matter, and connect with others on a profound level. Embrace this power, and use it to make a positive impact.