THE TIGHT FIVE: Stephan Romer
In the lead up to the First Thursdays Queenstown’s return we’re asking artists five questions about their practice. This week we talk to landscape photographer, Stephan Romer.
Thinking though your art practice, when did it all click?
For me it all really clicked in 2002 when I shot my first big Porsche campaign. When the head of the agency saw the results he was crazy with enthusiasm. Right there and then I knew that I had done something right. We returned to Germany, repacked our bags, and flew out the same day to the Canary Islands for a Ford ST campaign… it was the beginning of a very busy period in my photography career.
What is it about a scene that piques your interest?
It’s not so much the scene but what is going on in that particular moment when I am capturing the shot. Quite often the weather is a very important part. For example: a storm coming through, some fresh snow on the mountains, or reflections of a very quiet lake. This is what really enhances the shot.
How much forward planning goes into your expeditions?
A lot. It’s probably a throwback from my days as a commercial photographer when time was of the essence in getting the perfect shot. I still do a lot of research before heading out on an expedition and I may even do a recce of the area to really know what conditions I may be met with. But even then, you never know what conditions you’re going to be met with on the day and that’s part of the magic.
What’s more enjoyable, walking into a location or shooting from a helicopter?
These are two completely different ways of getting to a place of interest. I love both experiences to be honest. Flying through the mountains in a helicopter is very special as adrenalin really does kick in and you have to be more spontaneous. In saying that, reaching the top of a mountain with all the gear on my back is incredibly rewarding. Oh, and good exercise!
I hear that you’re working on a series which includes huts and buildings?
The idea of huts came from spending time in the Maniototo. I call this collection ‘Lost Treasures’ and it’s one that I’m working on still, it’s constantly growing. I love that these old huts and buildings have so many stories to tell through their weathered surfaces over years and years in the elements. I try to capture these with my photography.
